Wanna Be an Airline Pilot?

When I first switched from a comfortable career in hi-tech to the uncertainty and low pay of a regional airline pilot, I was frequently asked for advice about a career in aviation. Its a common joke among airline pilots to tell those seeking advice about the career to run away. Thats still the flippant advice I initially offer when Im asked, as a reader recently did.

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, July 29, 2014 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A career as an airline pilot presents significant challenges including long hours, extensive time away from home, high uncertainty, and initially low pay compared to the required investment.
Despite the drawbacks, the profession offers unique rewards such as an incomparable "office" view, the experience of flying advanced aircraft, generous time off for personal pursuits, and enriching travel opportunities.
Success in aviation requires realistic expectations about the demanding schedule and initial compensation, but the current pilot shortage could make it a viable time to enter, with pay potentially improving after a few years.

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When I first switched from a comfortable career in hi-tech to the uncertainty and low pay of a regional airline pilot, I was frequently asked for advice about a career in aviation. It’s a common joke among airline pilots to tell those seeking advice about the career to run away. That’s still the flippant advice I initially offer when I’m asked, as a reader recently did.

The reality is that the hours can be long, time away from home is usually extreme, career uncertainty is probably higher than in any other industry, sometimes the infrastructure seems built on a house of cards, and the pay is abysmal compared to the investment in time and training required to become qualified. Nonetheless, it has its rewards.