Career Insight: What does a pilot actually do?

I've been thinking about becoming a pilot after high school and would love to know more about what the role entails. What are the daily responsibilities of a pilot, and what should I keep in mind if I choose this career path?

Being a pilot can be a rewarding and exciting career path, but it is also a complex job that requires extensive training, a high level of responsibility, and a certain level of stress tolerance.

A pilot's primary duty is to fly aircrafts, either planes or helicopters, depending on their training and specialization. This sounds elementary, but the process involves a great deal of intricacy and a multitude of related activities. Before each flight, pilots go through a pre-flight checklist – this might involve walking around the aircraft to do a visual inspection or checking weather conditions.

Pilots are also in charge of planning flight paths, considering factors such as altitude and weather, and coordinating with air traffic control to take off and land the aircraft safely. Inside the cockpit, pilots monitor a variety of complex instruments and navigate the aircraft. Keeping passengers and cargo safe is of paramount importance.

It's important to note that becoming a pilot involves rigorous training. Most aspiring pilots earn a bachelor's degree, and then complete flight training through a program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration. After this, they need to accrue a specific number of flight hours and pass a series of exams to earn their pilot's license.

Keep in mind that being a pilot comes with challenges. The career often involves irregular schedules, with flights at all hours of the day and night, including weekends and holidays. This means that pilots often spend days or even weeks away from home.

Stress management is crucial in this career. Flying an aircraft, dealing with severe weather, toughing out mechanical issues, and ensuring passenger safety require a calm and composed demeanor.

However, if you are passionate about aviation and willing to put in the considerable time and effort to become qualified, being a pilot can lead to a fulfilling and exciting career. Remember that stepping into the role of a pilot is not just about flying an aircraft—it's about the commitment to safety, precision, and constant learning.