Understanding the hiring process and demand for pilots can help you make informed decisions about your career path. Follow these expert tips to help you navigate the hiring process and prepare for a rewarding career as a pilot.
Before you even sit down for an airline pilot interview, you need to start your job search. This involves more than just applying—it's about preparing the right documentation, researching airlines, and positioning yourself as a top candidate. Here’s how to get started:
Once you’ve selected the airline(s) you want to apply to, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents to start the application process. Here’s a list of key items you’ll need to get started:
Landing an interview is a huge step, but now it’s time to shine. You only get one chance to make a great first impression, so it’s important to be fully prepared. Here are some tips to help you stand out and impress your interviewers:
Know the Airline
Take a look at the airline’s website to learn about the aircraft it operates, where its pilot bases are located, its partners, and other general information.
Look the Part
Arrive at the interview looking perfectly groomed and professional. Wear a tailored suit in a dark color like black, navy, or gray. Be sure it’s the right size and style that fits your body type; think conservative and ask the sales associate for help if you need it. Shoes should be new or freshly polished—no boots. Women should wear closed-toe shoes with a low to moderate heel, especially if there’s a sim portion to the interview.
Bring Your Documentation
Have copies of the documents mentioned above, along with your résumé listing work experience, to bring with you to an interview. This will save time copying the information during the interview.
Get First-Hand Info
The piloting community is relatively small and tightknit. Talk with your fellow aviators to learn about their experiences interviewing and/or flying at that airline.
Network
Be sure to continue to network throughout your career. This will help you as your career moves forward at your airline and if you decide to move to another airline in the future.
Boeing and Airbus, the world’s two largest aircraft manufacturers, produce industry forecasts that look out over the next 20 years. This includes estimates for the expected demand for new pilots. Here are the latest projections of new pilots required by region.
| Boeing Forecast | Airbus Forecast | |
|---|---|---|
| North America | 119,000 | 124,000 |
| Latin America | 37,000 | 36,000 |
| Eurasia/Europe & CIS | 149,000 | 119,000 |
| Africa | 23,000 | 14,000 |
| China | 124,000 | 124,000 |
| Middle East | 67,000 | 59,000 |
| South Asia | 45,000 | 54,000 |
| Southeast Asia & Oceana/Asia Pacific | 73,000 | 90,000 |
| Total | 674,000 | 549,980 |
Sources:
Pilot and Technician Outlook 2025–2044
Airbus Global Market Forecast 2024–2043
From flying passengers to putting out fires, the airline industry offers a diverse range of career paths.
Explore first-year salary estimates, benefits, and career pathways available to pilots in the airline industry.
Find a list of U.S. and Canadian airlines that are hiring, along with minimum qualifications and links to their applications.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything—from FAA licensing and using your GI Bill to landing your first airline job.
Want to hear about life as an airline pilot? ALPA pilots volunteer their time to provide interactive presentations for schools. Inspire your students about aviation—bring an ALPA pilot to your school!
Anyone with a passion for aviation and the desire to fly can pursue a career as an airline pilot.
Learn about the qualifications and training pathways to becoming a professional pilot.
From flying passengers to putting out fires, the piloting profession offers a diverse range of career paths.
Five ALPA members share their unique experiences flying for different types of carriers.
