Acron Aviation Academy
Why become a pilot: Our top 10 reasons
Is becoming a pilot worth it? For many, a career in flying is exhilarating. It provides financial and professional growth opportunities, as well as the chance to avoid a mundane nine-to-five job. Whether you have a love for the skies or desire a long-term career opportunity, the advantages of becoming a pilot are something you cannot pass up. Nothing compares to the skillset you’ll gain as a pilot. Once you master the skies, the freedom you’ll enjoy will allow you to take fate into your own hands. You may choose to travel independently, exploring new destinations around the world. Alternatively, you can help others travel to new and exciting locations, feeling fulfilled in a lucrative and satisfying career.
1. Travel and experience possibilities
When you become a pilot, the world truly becomes your office. Pilots work in bustling international airports and small regional landing strips, providing them with more locations than most people see in a lifetime. Many pilots choose to take advantage of their layover destinations, exploring new cities, experiencing different cultures, and immersing themselves in new atmospheres.
In addition to personal excursions, pilots receive travel perks for themselves and their families - free flights, deep discounts on airfare, etc., making it easy to travel while on the job. It's the job that allows you to do your work while exploring the world!
2. Lucrative salary and benefits
Another great thing about being a pilot is the earning potential. With a vast range available from low to high, entry-level pilot jobs start on the low side, but after a few years of experience, airline pilots are averaging six-figure salaries. Senior pilots in command at the major airlines earn more than doctors and engineers - upwards of $300,000 annually.
In addition to an annual salary, many pilots also earn bonuses, retirement contributions, and pay increases. Standard benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage, while 401(k) matching, per diem allowances, and profit sharing are standard among many airlines.
3. Various advancement opportunities
There are multiple avenues for advancement after obtaining a license to fly. While most people take their test and become licensed for commercial airliners, there are opportunities for cargo flights with companies like FedEx or UPS, private charter flights, teaching others to fly, and more.
Advancement occurs through evaluations, seniority, and opportunities for additional certification, ensuring there is always something new to strive for. Many receive promotions to airline executive positions and training captain roles, or they remain with larger passenger carriers in management positions. Some pilots acquire certification to be FAA Certified Safety Inspectors.
4. No such thing as a repetitive workday
Forget having a cubicle or an office; your workplace environment is up in the air, literally 30,000 feet in the air, amidst the clouds. You'll find yourself on different routes every day. With varying weather conditions, new landing locations, and new faces among the crew and passengers, you'll never experience the same day twice.
It's exciting to grasp the extent of responsibility placed in the pilot's hands during every job. A pilot’s qualifications ensure they’ve met the requirements to face any new obstacle. New challenges arise daily, keeping things interesting, and there's nothing like the scenery of one's workspace.
5. Job stability and growing industries
A global airline pilot shortage exists, and it is unlikely to be resolved for decades. Boeing reports that more than 600,000 airline pilots are needed worldwide through 2040.
Such a need suggests job security for years to come. In addition, with a retirement age of 65 and the growing demand for domestic and international air freight and travel, the need for passenger and cargo pilots will always be high.
6. Transferable skill development
Pilots do not merely fly aircraft; they learn to problem-solve with complex systems and procedures, work under tremendous pressure, and communicate effectively in sensitive situations. These unique abilities transfer easily to any field.
Whether you need to apply your critical thinking and problem-solving skills or your leadership and teamwork abilities acquired in the air, you’ll set yourself up for success outside the cockpit.
7. Flexible schedule
While airline pilots may work many days in a row, they also have many days off at a time. The time between flights is extensive and can be very rewarding.
Once a pilot establishes seniority, they can bid on options for routes, daily flights, and even vacation time. Flexibility is one of the most surprising benefits of the position.
8. Respected profession
The public respects those who are professionally trained, responsible, and accountable. Operating under a uniform and a title that reflects authority projects a sense of respect that people have for pilots and the time and effort invested in their training.
Furthermore, many belong to prestigious associations in the field, such as the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) or the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). These nationally renowned organizations add to community and work pride.
9. A passion for flight
Have you loved planes, airports, or flying for as long as you can remember? Your dream could come true by working as a pilot and getting paid to do what you love every single day. Many people are not passionate about what they do every day, but for a pilot, it's a reality.
For those who fall in love with flying as children, there's no better place than at the helm.
10. Opportunity to work internationally
Properly licensed pilots can find work with airlines and aviation companies worldwide. The aviation industry is international, encompassing regions such as North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Whether you choose to operate out of your hometown, fly domestically, or branch out into international airspace, your talents will always be in demand.
Why you should learn to fly with Acron Aviation Academy
Acron Aviation Academy’s Orlando Flight School uses the latest aircraft to provide its students with a career-based training experience. Our instructors have storied careers in the field, with daily experience in aircraft and industry partnerships that foster success.
Learn more about potential funding options, assistance with applications, and opportunities for placements to help you reach your goals. If you have a passion for becoming a pilot, we share that passion for helping you achieve your goal.
