As pilot of an airline, you will be flying passengers or cargo on long or short flights for leisure, business or commercial purposes.
The aircraft is typically operated by two pilots; one will be the captain who is the pilot in command, while the other will be the first support officer.
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Pilots usually take turns flying the plane to avoid fatigue, with one manning the controls while the other talks to air traffic control and completes paperwork.
In some cases, such as long-haul flights, there may be three or four pilots on board so that each can take necessary breaks to fly.
The captain has overall responsibility for the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft and the safety of the crew and passengers.
You will face a heavy responsibility and personal commitment. You have to undergo rigorous training courses followed by recurrent training every six months in order to maintain the necessary license for the job.
What Does an Airline Pilot Do?
- Make sure that all route, weather, passenger and aircraft information is received.
- Use this information to create a flight plan, which details the altitude of the flight, the route to be taken and the amount of fuel needed.
- Ensuring fuel levels balance safety with economics and overseeing aircraft loading and fueling.
- Check that all security systems are working properly.
- Inform the cabin crew and maintain regular contact throughout the flight.
- Perform pre-flight checks on navigation and operating systems.
- Communicate with air traffic control prior to takeoff and during flight and landing.
- Ensure noise regulations are followed during take off and landing.
- Understand and interpret data from instruments and controls.
- Make regular checks of the technical performance and position of the aircraft, weather conditions and air traffic during the flight.
- Communicate with passengers.
- React quickly and appropriately to environmental changes and emergencies.
- Updating the aircraft logbook and writing a report at the end of the flight noting any incidents or problems with the aircraft.
When an Airline Pilot Earns – Salary
You airline pilot salaries depend on the airline employing you, the type of aircraft you are flying and your experience.
Starting salaries for newly qualified pilots working for a small operation can be around BRL 4,500 monthly. Salaries in larger companies can reach BRL 25,000 monthly.
Some companies run apprenticeship courses for fully trained pilots looking for their first job, where wages may be lower, but additional training will be paid for by company.
At other companies, starting salaries may be higher, but you will be required to fund the additional training yourself.
According to the Lovemondays website, pilot salaries at the following companies are:
- Salary of a commercial pilot at TAM (currently LATAM) – BRL 8,600.00
- Salary of a commercial pilot at AZUL – BRL 14,100.00
A pilot's salary is often incremental, increasing with each year of service with the company. Benefits often include a pension plan, various allowances and discounted travel.
Income figures are intended as a guide only.
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