The lifestyle of a pilot can seem very intimidating for those who do not know what it actually involves. It can be a very rewarding career. Many pilots love their jobs and actually have great financial satisfaction out of it. However, there are many ups and downs within the profession that only others can imagine if they are not working as a pilot. There are many different opportunities that are offered through different airlines. Many pilots enjoy being able to see different parts of the world. However, this takes away from spending time with family and friends because most pilots do not get to come home for the weekends and holidays. Training alone to become a pilot is very time-consuming. There are many training classes such as the part 135 online aviation training that all pilots must complete prior to flying.
For those who are short-haul pilots, they have the luxury of being able to start and finish their day at their allocated base. They do not have to participate in any night stops so they are fortunate enough to make it home to their families every night. However, there can be unexpected technical issues or weather-related problems that can have an impact on the flight which will then result in a night stop. These flights generally only last anywhere between 30 minutes to 3 hours. Short-haul pilots also only operate to certain destinations that have small airfields.
Long haul pilots, on the other hand, fly more than 6 hours at a time. This means that these pilots generally spend a lot more time away from home. Trips can take several days or even a week. This also tends to be a very tiring job since there are a lot of time zone changes. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Long haul pilots are subject to more days off than other pilots since they spend a great deal of time away from home. They need this time to readjust and get much-needed rest.
Cargo pilots do most of their flying at night and also work more days than short haul pilots. This means more time off for cargo pilots. Normally cargo pilots work one week on and one week off in rotation. Corporate and business jet pilots have very flexible schedules because they can be called to fly during the night or day. The sky is also the limit in terms of flying locations. The aircraft owner is in charge of these pilot’s schedules and they have to abide. They are pretty much on call. A number of days can be spent in a hotel once they are called out on duty, and after their destination has been reached. Most of the time, these pilots do not know when they will leave or when their next flight will be. While these pilots are very well paid, they spend a lot of time away from their families. Sometimes they may even be required to do additional duties. Their standby periods can last anywhere between 1-2 weeks. There is a lot of uncertainty within corporate and business pilot jobs.
Becoming a pilot takes a toll on one’s body physically and mentally depending on the type of pilot an individual becomes. There is also a lot of training required to become a pilot, one being the part 135 online aviation training that must be taken and passed. However, through all of the training and time spent away from home, it can be a very rewarding career.
