As an airline pilot you would fly passengers and cargo to destinations around the world. This can be an exciting and challenging job, but it involves a lot of responsibility. If you are keen on aircraft and travel this could be ideal for you.

Tasks:

• carrying out pre-flight checks of instruments, engines and fuel
• making sure that all safety systems are working properly
• working out the best route based on weather reports and other information from air traffic control
• following airport approach and landing instructions from air traffic control
• checking flight data and making adjustments to suit weather changes
• keeping passengers and crew informed about journey progress
• writing flight reports after landing, including about any aircraft or flight path problems
• on small planes helping to load and unload luggage or cargo.

Key skills:

• the ability to follow spoken instructions from air traffic control
• the ability to give clear, confident instructions to crew members and passengers
• good teamwork skills
• the ability to work with technology
• good hand-to-eye coordination
• the ability to read maps and 3D displays
• good written communication skills
• the ability to remain calm, and take charge in an emergency.

Average Salary (2013):

United Kingdom: Co-pilots (first officers) can earn between £21,000 and £43,000 a year, depending on experience. Captains can earn between £55,000 and £80,000 a year.

Qualifications and training required:

You would usually start your career as a first officer after gaining at least an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence (ATPL). This is first awarded as a 'frozen ATPL', which allows you to fly as a first officer. When you have completed enough flying hours you can apply for a full ATPL and qualify as an airline captain. You must be at least 21 years old to have a full ATPL.

You will need to pass a thorough medical check. You should be physically fit, and have good hearing, eyesight and colour-normal vision. Some airlines set height and weight restrictions.

The Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators (GAPAN) offers an aptitude test for people with little or no flying experience. Although not essential, the test could help you decide whether you are suited to this career before you spend money on training.

Source: https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk