A factory demonstration pilot, or “demo” pilot, travels the world, showcasing airplanes to prospective customers and their representatives. Manager of Textron Aviation’s ProOwnership program, Brandy Hearting — herself a former demo pilot for the company’s piston, turboprop and turbine products — hires pilots who may transition into these positions. She explains this exciting career.
How to Become a Factory Demonstration Pilot
Key Takeaways:
- Factory demonstration pilots travel globally to showcase aircraft to prospective customers through demonstration flights and at aviation events, a role demanding significant travel and customer focus.
- Key qualifications include a bachelor's degree (often non-technical aviation), commercial pilot ratings, and exceptional interpersonal skills, relationship-building ability, and communication experience (e.g., from flight instruction).
- Entry into this career path typically involves starting in other company piloting roles or OEM development programs, with networking at aviation events and internships serving as valuable stepping stones.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
