Pilot and navigate the flight of multi-engine aircraft in regularly scheduled service for the transport of passengers and cargo. Requires Federal Air Transport rating and certification in specific aircraft type used.
Significant Points
- Regional and low-fare airlines offer the best opportunities; pilots attempting to get jobs at the major airlines will face strong competition.
- Pilots usually start with smaller commuter and regional airlines to acquire the experience needed to qualify for higher paying jobs with national or major airlines.
- Many pilots have learned to fly in the military, but growing numbers have college degrees with flight training from civilian flying schools that are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- Earnings of airline pilots are among the highest in the Nation.
National Outlook
| 2004 Total Employment | 83,000 |
| 2014 Expected Employment | 98,000 |
| Change (Percent) | 14,000 ( 17.2) |
| Total Openings | 36,000 |