How Can I Transition from Military to Civilian Pilot Jobs?

I've been flying in the military and I'm interested in switching to a civilian pilot career. What additional certifications or licenses might I need, and how do airlines view military flying experience?

Firstly, your military flying experience is highly respected and appreciated in the aviation industry. Airline companies see military pilots as disciplined and well-trained, which is desirable in the civilian aviation sector.

However, transitioning from a military pilot to a civilian pilot requires obtaining an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The ATP certificate is the highest level of aircraft pilot certificate and a prerequisite for most civilian pilot jobs.

The FAA allows for some credit to be given for military flight experience. For military helicopter pilots, a certain amount of their military flight time might be used towards fixed-wing ratings if they are transitioning to fixed-wing aircraft. For those who flew fixed-wing aircraft in the military, the transition can often be easier as their flight time often directly applies to FAA licenses.

Also, commercial airlines usually prefer applicants with at least a bachelor's degree. If you don't already have such a degree, you might consider completing one in a related field, like aviation science or aeronautical engineering, although a degree in any field can fulfill this requirement.

Lastly, keep in mind that being prepared for the interview process is crucial. You'll have to be able to explain the military flying experience in civilian terms so that it can be understood by civilian employers, and how your military background can bring value to a civilian aviation role.

A few good resources to transition to the civilian aviation industry include the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the Regional Airline Association (RAA), and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). These associations often offer resources specifically crafted for military pilots transitioning into civilian roles. Remember, making such a transition takes careful planning and intentional steps, but your skills and experience in the military will certainly serve you well in pursuing a civilian flight career.