Determining if you are ready for a checkride (practical test) involves several key factors. Your flight instructor plays a crucial role in assessing your readiness. They will endorse you for the checkride only when they are confident in your skills … Continue reading →

Professionalism is the bedrock upon which a successful career in aviation is built. For pilots, it’s not just about mastering the technical skills of flying an aircraft or understanding complex navigation systems—it’s about embodying a standard of conduct that reflects … Continue reading →

Yes, your driving record can affect your career as a pilot. Airlines and aviation employers often review driving records as part of their background checks. A clean driving record suggests that you demonstrate these qualities in your everyday life. In … Continue reading →

Ok, so technically, a pilot in training in the United States never really “fails” completely or “gets washed out” for good. Our training system operates on a pay-to-play structure. If you fail a couple tests here and there and keep … Continue reading →

In some hiring practices, especially for airlines and for jobs that require security clearances when flying for federal agencies, details like where you have lived are important. You may find yourself being asked to document “what DAY you graduated from … Continue reading →

A logbook should be a professional document, but doens’t mean it can’t have some character in it also. It doesn’t have to be sterile. I encourage pilots to use the comments section of their logbook to document some of the … Continue reading →

If you are a professional pilot, your career as a professional pilot may inspire your child, but deciding to become a pilot is a personal choice that depends on their own interests, aptitudes, and aspirations. At some point it has … Continue reading →

Simple answer here. No. Don’t bother. Sure, you should study to get the best score you can on the first try, but if you score a 70% or better, that’s passing. Few examiners are going to think much about whether … Continue reading →

The official answer I am going to give is, “yes.” I will also tell you that most pilots report the events for which there are findable medical records. That time you were skiing and fell a little hard and felt … Continue reading →

Being a simulator instructor can be a rewarding and viable career option for pilots seeking more stable days at home and less travel. Or for those who encounter medical challenges along their career path. An FAA medical certificate is not … Continue reading →

Failing or washing out of airline training can be a significant setback, but it doesn’t mean the end of your aviation career. This is a little different than failing a training event in your initial pilot certification efforts because failures … Continue reading →

Pre-paying for flight training can be a contentious decision for aspiring professional pilots, with both notable benefits and significant risks to consider. Understanding these aspects is crucial for making an informed choice about how to finance your aviation education. Pre-paying … Continue reading →

Yes, employers in the aviation industry often review social media profiles as part of their hiring process for pilots. Social media provides employers with insights into a candidate’s character, professionalism, and overall suitability for a role that demands a high … Continue reading →

No, you don’t have to be exceptionally good at math to become a pilot, but a fundamental understanding of math is essential. As a pilot, you’ll use math for various practical applications such as calculating fuel consumption, determining flight times, … Continue reading →

Deciding to quit your job to pursue pilot training is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. Pilot training can be expensive, with costs ranging from tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand dollars. Ensure you … Continue reading →

In the high-flying world of aviation, professionalism isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of safety, trust, and success. For pilots in training, navigating the skies is challenging enough without the added turbulence of romantic relationships, especially with instructors or co-workers. … Continue reading →

For pilots seeking employment, attending job fairs can be a highly beneficial strategy, offering advantages that go beyond simply sending in resumes to recruiters. Pilot job fairs provide unique opportunities for networking, gaining insights into the industry, and making a … Continue reading →

Yes, having your own insurance during pilot training is highly recommended. Flight schools typically have their own insurance policies, to cover their own assets and operations. These may not cover every situation or an individual who is receiving training. While … Continue reading →

Losing your medical certification during pilot training can significantly impact your path to becoming a pilot. Without a valid medical certificate, you will likely not be permitted to fly. This means you will have to pause your flight training until … Continue reading →

Interview preparation services can be invaluable for pilots seeking jobs, particularly in the competitive and high-stakes aviation industry. These services offer tailored guidance that addresses the unique aspects of pilot interviews, helping candidates stand out in a crowded field. Interview … Continue reading →

Tattoos are increasingly accepted in many professional fields, but in the aviation industry, visibility plays a crucial role. Airlines typically maintain conservative standards regarding visible tattoos. Most major carriers require that tattoos be covered while in uniform, as they strive … Continue reading →

In addition to technical proficiency and flying skills, soft skills play a crucial role in a pilot’s ability to network effectively and succeed in their aviation career. Here are several essential soft skills that pilots should develop to excel in … Continue reading →

When we think of pilots, we often picture them mastering complex controls, navigating stormy skies, or executing flawless landings. While technical expertise is undoubtedly critical, there’s another set of skills that’s just as vital—yet often overlooked: interpersonal skills. These “soft … Continue reading →

For aspiring pilots, one of the most common questions when embarking on flight training is whether they can complete it within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) minimum required hours. The short answer is: yes, it’s possible, but it’s not the … Continue reading →

Some training programs, especially those that provide financing of training efforts have contracts that a student will sign. Pay attention to what you are signing and what the ramifications are if you drop out of training, fail to progress in … Continue reading →

Success in flight training demands a unique blend of characteristics that enable aspiring pilots to excel in a rigorous and dynamic environment. Dedication is paramount; flight training requires substantial time and effort, demanding students to commit fully to their studies … Continue reading →

One of the first things I tell people going through pilot training is that you are going to have to be self directed at points. You are going to have to want it, put the time in, and make the … Continue reading →

 There are same primary sections of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) tha every career focused student should be aware of and know how to navigate.  The primary sections a pilot will reference will include: Federal Aviation Regulations 14 CFR Part … Continue reading →

Yes, you can have kids and be a professional pilot, but balancing a demanding aviation career with family life requires careful planning and flexibility. One of the most significant challenges for pilots is the time spent away from home. Pilots … Continue reading →

A logbook is a critical part of a pilot’s record of their training, professional progression, and to some degree, life. There are so many horror stories of lost and damaged logbooks. I can’t stress enough how important it is for … Continue reading →

Picking the best headset can be a challenging discussion. They are one of the most costly “pilot gear” items a pilot will invest in. You don’t have to buy the most expensive heaset on the market, but I will say … Continue reading →

YES! It always amazes me when I encounter students who have started training somewhere and have never even taken an introductory flight. Some have never even ridden on a commercial airliner. Take a little time if you are thinking about … Continue reading →

No, you do not need a college degree to become an airline charter or corporate pilot. The most crucial requirements are obtaining the necessary pilot licenses and accumulating the required flight hours. While a college degree is not mandatory, it … Continue reading →

Let’s get real here for a bit. This topic may not feel politically correct to some, and it is somewhat debatable that what I write here is my opinion. I am okay with that. I hope you will take what … Continue reading →

Most examiners will tell you to dress comfortably, don’t wear a tie, sport coat, or dress. I know it probably seems pretty cliche, but a button-down shirt or a polo and a pair of khaki pants are your best choice. … Continue reading →