A commercial airline pilot is responsible for getting passengers to their destination safely. The role involves being able to anticipate changes and solve problems effectively and efficiently. You will usually work alongside another pilot during a flight.
The Job Scope
Carrying out pre-flight checks to the aircraft, making sure the health and safety systems are working
Devising a flight plan using information about the weather, passengers, aircraft and route
Checking data throughout the flight and making decisions about changes where necessary – such as altering the route
Following instructions from air traffic control
Respond to passengers’ questions about flights, travel routes and arrival time
Communicating with passengers about the progress of the journey
Thinking and acting quickly when faced with sudden changes to environmental conditions and emergencies
Noting down deviations from the flight plan during the journey
Writing reports about any in-flight issues.
Skills Required
Problem-solving skills
The ability to make decisions confidently and quickly
Strong communication skills and the ability to coordinate your work with another person
Aptitude for data analysis
High attention to detail
The ability to remain calm in stressful situations
People-management skills
Spatial awareness
The ability to grasp and utilize technical information.
Academic Requirement
The process that leads to becoming a qualified pilot is like a step ladder. You start initially by becoming a private pilot, then a commercial pilot, and finally an airline transport pilot.
PPL (Private Pilot License) is an entry level course that equips cadets with the foundations skills to pilot a single piston-engine aircraft with confidence.
