While we don’t have hard figures on their ranks or the number of jobs that exist, demand for aerial firefighter pilots is increasing, industry experts say. “There are opportunities, but it’s not very well-organized,” says Dean Talley, an air tanker captain and board member of the Associated Aerial Firefighters. In fact, operators “are having a lot of trouble filling positions,” with retirements creating vacancies and brisk airline hiring draining the already-small applicant pool for aviation firefighters, the former Coast Guard and ag pilot says. The problem continues today.
How to Become an Aerial Firefighter Pilot
Key Takeaways:
- The aerial firefighting industry faces increasing demand for pilots but struggles with a shortage due to retirements and competition from airline hiring.
- Pilots operate a diverse fleet of aircraft, including fixed-wing tankers, SEATs, and rotorcraft, requiring specialized skills like low-level flying over terrain and manual piloting.
- Most pilots work seasonally for contracted companies, with salaries varying greatly, though the industry is shifting towards more year-round employment due to extended fire seasons.
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