We all have our different motivations and reasons for becoming interested in a career as an airline pilot.
I often start my seminars for prospective student pilots with the question to the audience “why are you here and what is that motivates you to consider a career as a pilot?” I am often amazed at how difficult it is for some people to articulate their interest and was particularly taken aback once when conducting a seminar in a smaller city in Rajasthan (India) where nobody seemed to have a good reason for being there and in fact, most had never even flown.
Perhaps its not so necessary to articulate our feelings, other than to just say “this is something we want to do” however the following are my
TOP TEN reasons to become an Airline Pilot
Reason 1
Can you think of anywhere else that has such a great view from your office AND one that is constantly changing and amazing?
Reason 2
Their is great satisfaction in learning to fly and being able to manage a sophisticated piece of machinery like an Airliner.
Reason 3
The financial rewards can be excellent
Reason 4
Travel. Pilots have a fantastic opportunity to travel the world and to experience and learn about cultures different to their own. This allows them to become more worldly and true global citizens
Reason 5
You never stop learning. Flying is career that requires continual training, testing and learning of new skills, something that keeps the job interesting.
Reason 6
The ability to get a job almost anywhere. Airlines all over the world are always looking for experienced pilots. Once you have achieved a strong level of experience, the world is your oyster
Reason 7
Career path. The industry allows progression through the ranks from Officer, to Captain, Check & Training Captain, Management and transition onto different aircraft types.
Reason 8
Fun. For those who truly love flying, the job can simply be fun.
Reason 9
Sense of freedom and romance. The act of flying and being on the move gives you a sense of freedom and whilst some of the romance may have gone, I think some still remains.
Reason 10
Make great friends and become part of an elite group that shares the same passion as you.