I WANT TO BE A PILOT

QI’m in grade 12 and wish to become a pilot. What should I keep in mind. Also, what are the job prospects in aviation?

AWhile perceived as glamorous and exciting, the job of a commercial pilot is highly specialised with immense responsibilities requiring focus, discipline and dedication.

To become a commercial pilot you would have to earn three licenses – SPL (Student Pilot License), PPL (Private Pilot License) and CPL (Commercial Pilot License) and each level has its exams and training requirements.

Apart from academic requirements, traits such as confidence, an alert mind, ability to handle crises and work under pressure, discipline and a sense of responsibility are needed. Physical fitness and perfect vision are also musts.

While it is possible to enroll for SPL after high school, I’d advise you to complete an undergraduate degree before signing up. A college degree will prove beneficial in future not only should you want to switch jobs but also for promotions within the organisation.

It is advisable to pursue a degree in aviation or aeronautical engineering. You will need to study maths, engineering, physics, geography and English. Subjects to be studied would include aviation meteorology, navigation, planning and communications in radio and wireless transmission. After CPL you would need to get multi-engine training and eventually apply for a license that will enable you fly solo and captain an aircraft.

In addition to exams and medical fitness, candidates should have completed 1,500 hours flying time.

India, Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Russia are popular destinations for pilot training. In Dubai, the Emirates Flying School and Emirates Aviation College now offer pilot training programs. Make your selection carefully. Look for factors such as quality, cost, stability and safety record of the school. Also check for quality and age of aircraft, number of machines available for training, experience and qualifications of instructors, provision the school has for maintenance and weather in the area.

Other careers include aircraft technicians and manufacturing engineers, airport operations manager, air transport manager and air traffic controller.