Hiring Tips & Forecast

How to Start Your Airline Pilot Job Search

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:

• Select an airline
• Gather relevant records and information
• Complete the application
• Prepare for the interview process
• Impress the hiring managers
• Launch your career

Recommended Documents for Your Airline Pilot Job Application

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:

• First class medical
• Pilot licenses and certificates
• Logbook updated with current flight-time hours
• Birth certificate
• Passport
• Driving record
• College degree and transcripts

How to Prepare for Your Airline Pilot Interview

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

Pilot Hiring Forecasts by Region

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.

Sources:
Pilot and Technician Outlook 2025–2044
Airbus Global Market Forecast 2024–2043