Becoming an aerobatic or airshow pilot is a dream for many, but there are many steps to go through to achieve that goal.

Start With Primary Pilot Training

As with becoming any type of specialized pilot, the first step to becoming an airshow pilot is to become a private pilot. Such training teaches the basics of aircraft control, energy management, and aeronautical decision making.

Many airshow pilots also consider getting a commercial pilot certificate, regardless of whether they plan to fly in the events for a living. The additional training provides more expertise and aircraft control, and it builds upon the concepts learned during private pilot training to make an aviator more complete and well-rounded.

Specialized Aerobatic Training

After primary training, aerobatic pilots then need to go through aerobatic pilot training to hone their stunt skills.

A number of flight schools around the country provide acrobatic training in aircraft such as the Cessna Aerobat, Pitts Special, or American Champion Decathlon.

In addition to special training, aerobatic flight schools employ instructors with significant experience flying acrobatics. Real-world experience is a great benefit to help newer pilots learn the trade of aerobatic aviation.

To become a stunt pilot, one must complete at least 10 hours with an aerobatic instructor on top of the requirements to achieve an FAA pilot certificate. It is recommended that aerobatic training not be completed until a pilot receives their primary training and certification to make the process of becoming a stunt pilot easier.

It is important to note that one can become a stunt pilot with only an endorsement. This means that they fly with an instructor until it’s determined they are proficient to act as an aerobatic pilot by themselves. No additional FAA exam is required.

Maintaining proficiency as a stunt pilot is no easy feat.

After receiving their endorsement, a pilot should practice regularly to make sure their skills, decision making, and reaction times stay sharp. This is especially important for pilots performing at airshows or flying in formation with other aerobatic aircraft.

Career Opportunities for Aerobatic Pilots

Some stunt pilots are happy to fly only for themselves. They may enjoy the adrenaline of flying aerobatics or want access to a unique sector of aviation not available to all.

However, some decide to continue into a career as an aerobatic pilot. Many go on to fly as instructors or in fields such as aerial photography or film. Still others become test pilots, flying new or modified aircraft to ensure their performance and safety.

Again, flying in airshows is a top attraction for many stunt pilots. Some airshows are operated by volunteers flying antique or unique aircraft, while others are professional pilots who tour the country—or world—as part of an act. Major airshows across the country attract hundreds or thousands of paying viewers excited to witness a special facet of aviation.

Some stunt pilots are even sponsored by companies or branches of the military. Acrobatic flying can be such a spectacle that planes painted in certain colors can bring significant visibility in key demographics.

In addition, large companies and the military are among the few who have the resources to fund and maintain fleets of aerobatic aircraft, often jets, as they tour.

Resources to Start Training

There are a number of organizations that help pilots work toward acrobatic training and maintain proficiency as stunt pilots.

The International Aerobatic Club (IAC), for example, sponsors events and educational programs to help pilots attain and maintain their aerobatic proficiency. The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is also a great place to make connections with pilots who have the knowledge and skills to help with aerobatic training.

Local pilots will know the best places to start aerobatic training. Participating in local IAC and EAA chapters, or stopping in at the local FBO, could help prospective pilots learn more about how and where to get started.

A great way to test out aerobatic flying is to visit a flight school with planes that can perform basic spins.

Every flight instructor in the U.S. is required to complete spins during their instructor training and thus have experience with the maneuver. Getting flight time practicing spins can help pilots decide whether acrobatic flight is a path they would like to pursue more in depth. If not, simply practicing spins can provide an adrenaline rush and help pilots hone their basic airmanship.

Ultimately, acrobatic flying is an exciting path to take. Whether you want to pursue acrobatics as a career or simply want to learn to improve your flying skills, there are resources across the country to help you pursue your passions.

Acrobatics help you learn energy management in new ways usually not accessible to standard category airplanes and can help you apply a wider variety of principles to your day-to-day flying.

The post How to Become an Aerobatic or Airshow Pilot appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Aerial photography pilots fly small aircraft and either take photos themselves or transport photographers who want to take photos from the air. Here are the four steps that you need to take to become an aerial photography pilot:

Get a Private Pilot License

The first step in becoming a pilot is obtaining your private pilot certificate. Your flight training for this license will teach you the basics of operating an airplane and allow you to fly fixed-wing aircraft recreationally.

You will need to be at least 17 years old and acquire an FAA medical certificate to get your private pilot license. The training can be completed in as little as two months if you work on it full time.  

Obtain a Commercial Pilot License

In order to obtain employment as a pilot, you will need a commercial pilot certificate. This will allow you to work in jobs like flight instruction, surveying, and aerial photography.

The FAA requires pilots to have at least 250 hours before earning this certificate, so it can take around a year even if you fly full time.

Acquire Additional Ratings and Gain Experience

Some aerial photography employers will hire you with only a commercial pilot certificate, but others may require additional training and ratings.

Common requirements include an instrument rating—which allows you to fly solely by referencing an aircraft’s instruments rather than the outside surroundings—or a multiengine rating. 

• READ MORE: Paul Bowen Aviation Photography

Most job postings will require applicants to have more than 250 hours of flight time, so you will likely need to build more flight time before applying to jobs.

Get Hired as an Aerial Photography Pilot

The final step is to apply to jobs and get hired as an aerial photography pilot.

There are many aerial photography companies across the country. They typically fly smaller aircraft, including ones commonly used in flight training like the Cessna 172.

As is the case with any pilot job, it is important to review each job posting carefully to ensure that you meet the requirements and follow the instructions.

FAQs

How much do aerial photography pilots make?

Aerial photography is an entry-level pilot job. Although the pay can range between employers, new pilots typically make between $30,000 and $50,000 per year. Those with more experience and flying hours can expect to be paid more.

Can a private pilot do aerial photography?

With a private pilot certificate, you can take photos when you fly as long as you do so safely and in accordance with the regulations. There are many pilots who take photos or videos of their flights using devices like mounted action cameras. Similarly, you could bring a friend or family member on board who takes pictures for personal use. However, you are not allowed to fly for commercial purposes or make money through flying.

How do I become an aerial survey pilot?

The job of an aerial survey pilot is similar to that of an aerial photography pilot. Rather than take photos or transport photographers, aerial survey pilots perform mapping and data collection tasks during their flights (or carry crewmembers who do so). Aerial surveying is also an entry-level job for pilots, and the requirements and pay are comparable to those of an aerial photography pilot.

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Based in Wheeling, Illinois, Priester employs more than 200. George J. Priester Aviation is the larger corporate name for its family of aviation service companies, including Priester Aviation as its Midwest base, Mayo Aviation as its Rocky Mountain West base, and Hill Private Aviation as its Southeast base.

Priester Aviation Mission Statement

“To be the most trusted operating partner for aircraft owners, flight departments, and clients needing management support and/or charter services.”

Priester Aviation in the News

George J. Priester Aviation Unifies Customer-Focused Companies Under Legacy Brand
For nearly 80 years, the Priester family name has meant committed excellence in aviation services and customer-focused relationships.

Priester Aviation Openings on FindaPilot.com

• Challenger 604 PIC in Pontiac, Michigan
• Citation XLS+ PIC in Wheeling, Illinois

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Based in Lewisville, Texas, GMR employs nearly 36,000. Among the companies under the GMR umbrella are American Medical Response, Rural Metro Fire, Air Evac Lifeteam, Reach Air Medical Services, Med-Trans Corporation, AirMed International, and Guardian Flight.

Global Medical Response Mission Statement

“Our mission is providing care to the world at a moment’s notice and is at the heart of everything we do.”

Global Medical Response in the News

GMR Mobilizes First Responders, Ambulances, Air Medical Aircraft and More as Hurricane Debby Makes Landfall
As part of American Medical Response’s FEMA contract, GMR deployed ground, air, and medical transportation assets to help coastal communities in Debby’s path in early August.

Global Medical Response Openings on FindaPilot.com

• Pilot for Beechjet 400 – San Antonio, Texas
• Pilot for King Air – Murrieta, Calif.
• Helicopter pilot – Oceanside, Calif.
• Helicopter pilot – Williams, Calif.

More Global Medical Response Resources:

• Career site 
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• Latest pilot job openings 
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The role of an A&P is a challenging one with diverse job opportunities. Although they will often have a specialization, A&Ps are certified to work on all parts of all types of aircraft, ranging from widebody commercial airliners to small two-seat helicopters.

A&Ps are also sometimes referred to as aircraft mechanics or aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs). They can work for a variety of employers, ranging from flying schools to airlines to aircraft maintenance contractors.

Prospective A&Ps need to obtain a combination of training and skills before they can be certified by the FAA. Here are the four main steps to becoming an airframe and powerplant technician:

Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

To be an A&P, you must be at least 18 years old and be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.

Although you can obtain the technical skills required to be an A&P through training, you should also ensure that you have soft skills that will help you succeed in the field of aviation maintenance. These include strong communication skills and attention to detail.

Gain Formal Training or Experience

The FAA requires prospective A&Ps to meet either a training or experience requirement in order to be certified. There are three ways to meet this requirement:

• Completing the training requirement is the most common option, but also requires you to pay for the program. To meet this requirement, you will need to attend and graduate from an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school.
• Those with experience in the military have the option of completing a Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council training course instead.
• Alternatively, you can complete 18 months of practical work experience with either airframes or powerplants, or 30 months of experience with both systems. Although this option may seem the most practical, entry-level apprenticeships can be hard to come by.

Pass the Required Tests

After meeting the training or experience requirement, a prospective A&P will need to complete the required FAA testing. First, there is a set of three knowledge tests. Once you pass these tests, there is an oral test and a practical test.

Get Certified by the FAA

After completing all the steps listed above, you can obtain your FAA certificate. The A&P certificate has no expiration date and does not require any medical testing.

The FAA certificate actually has two ratings—airframe and powerplant. Most mechanics will obtain both ratings, thereby earning the A&P designation.

FAQs

What is the salary for an airframe and powerplant technician?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for aircraft mechanics in 2023 was $75,400. The median annual pay for those working at airlines was $101,500.

Are airframe and powerplant mechanics in high demand?

Yes, there is high demand for A&Ps across the United States and around the world. The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates 4 percent growth for aircraft and avionics mechanics through 2032 and aviation training company CAE projects a need for 138,000 AMTs by 2033.

How long does it take to become an airframe and powerplant technician?

The timing depends on which training or experience requirement you choose and how long it takes you to complete the testing. A&P school programs typically range in length from 14 to 24 months. 

The post How to Become an Airframe & Powerplant Technician appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

While top executives can earn millions per year, frontline operational employees can also work in well-compensated roles, with some jobs offering six-figure annual salaries. Here are the highest-paying jobs in the aviation industry:

Airline Management

The top earners at a company are typically the senior executives, and airlines are no different.

The chief executive officers of major airlines in the United States made anywhere from $4.5 million to $34 million in 2023. These individuals typically reach their roles through other jobs in airline management.

Airlines have countless different roles in their corporate offices, ranging from revenue management to network planning to human resources. Entry-level jobs typically offer salaries under $75,000, but there is significant room for earnings growth if workers climb the corporate ladder.

Airport Management

Just like an airline, airports have teams of employees working behind the scenes in their management offices. There are people who oversee emergency preparedness, manage projects, and run the airport’s finances.

Airport executives can also be very well paid, with top executives earning hundreds of thousands—if not millions—per year. As is the case at the airlines, there is also significant earning potential between entry-level positions and senior management roles.

Pilots

Pilots are some of the most well-paid operational workers in the aviation industry. New pilots at a major airline can expect to make between $90,000 and $110,000 per year, depending on the airline.

Meanwhile, the most senior captains can earn over $500,000 at the largest airlines in the U.S.

Although regional airlines were once notorious for low pilot pay, they now offer significantly more generous compensation. A new first officer at a regional airline typically has an annual salary of $80,000 to $110,000, and senior captains can earn over $200,000 a year.

The salary of corporate pilots can vary greatly, from $40,000 to over $300,000 per year.

Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineers play a crucial role in the aviation industry by designing and developing aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. Employers typically require a four-year college engineering degree, and many aerospace engineers pursue graduate education on top of that.

Companies that hire aerospace engineers include aircraft manufacturers, rocket companies, and parts manufacturers. The median pay for an aerospace engineer in America was approximately $130,000 per year, but salaries can far exceed that with some employers and positions.

Air Traffic Control

The job of an air traffic controller is a challenging and dynamic one.

These professionals are responsible for monitoring our airports and skies and managing the movement of aircraft. In the U.S., most civilian air traffic controllers (ATCs) are employed by the FAA.

After they complete their training and are assigned to an air traffic facility, controllers earn approximately $60,000 to $70,000 per year. The pay rates depend in part on the geographical area and associated cost of living.

Salaries increase as controllers progress throughout their practical training and move along in their careers, with the average salary for an ATC in 2023 being $137,380.

Exciting and Lucrative Industry

The aviation industry offers the opportunity to earn generous salaries while working in a dynamic and rewarding field.

While there are certainly jobs in the industry that have limited earning potential, others—like the ones discussed above—can lead to very well-paying careers. 

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Thermodynamics engineers apply these concepts to build and design aircraft and spacecraft. Here is what you need to know about becoming a thermodynamics engineer: 

What Is Thermodynamics?

Thermodynamics is a branch of science that examines energy and the transfer and conversion of energy. Applications of thermodynamics are present throughout many areas of science and engineering, including biochemistry, applied physics, and mechanical engineering.

What Is a Thermodynamics Engineer?

Thermodynamics engineers use their knowledge of thermodynamics to help develop, construct, and test products.

A thermodynamic engineer can work in many different engineering fields. Although their expertise is vital in the world of aerospace engineering, they can also work in areas such as mechanical engineering or chemical engineering.

When it comes to aviation and aerospace, thermodynamics is used extensively in engine design and testing. Simply put, the concepts behind thermodynamics are what turns fuel into thrust in an aircraft or spacecraft engine.

Thermodynamics engineers can work for employers, such as aircraft manufacturers, rocket launch companies, and engine manufacturers. There are also many work opportunities outside of aviation and aerospace, such as in power generation and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system design.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Thermodynamics Engineer?

Jobs in thermodynamics engineering require a bachelor’s degree in engineering at a minimum.

Undergraduate engineering degrees are typically four-year programs, but it is not uncommon for students to take five or six years to finish, due to the heavy workload and opportunities for experiential learning opportunities.

Thermodynamics engineers will typically study one of the broader branches of engineering at school—such as aerospace engineering or mechanical engineering—before specializing in thermodynamics.

Aspiring thermodynamics engineers must also complete an engineering licensing program, which includes intensive exams and supervised work experience. As is the case with many engineering jobs, some employers will require or prefer candidates to have a master’s degree in engineering.

How Much Do Thermodynamics Engineers Make?

Being a thermodynamic engineer is a well-paying career. Thermodynamics engineers typically fall under one of the broader fields of engineering, most commonly aerospace, mechanical, or chemical engineering.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these types of engineers enjoyed a median pay of approximately $100,000 in 2023. Aerospace engineers had a median annual salary of $130,720, chemical engineers $112,100, and mechanical engineers $99,510. 

The post How to Become a Thermodynamics Engineer appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The airline services routes in Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Texas.

Boutique Air is a codeshare partner with United Airlines and has an interline agreement with American Airlines.

Boutique Air Mission Statement

“…To provide a first-class experience at an economical price, while making passengers feel at home.”

Boutique Air in the News

Trip Report: Music City to the Gulf Coast With Boutique Air
It is once again time for another Essential Air Service (EAS) trip report from AirlineGeeks’ Joe Gerardi. Just like his journey on Air Choice One, this trip is another unique experience that connects two larger cities using a small EAS community.

Boutique Air Adds Three Destinations
Boutique Air announced three new destinations spanning the U.S. as the airline looks to bolster its services in the East, West, and South.

Boutique Air Openings on FindaPilot.com

• PC-12 First Officer
• Pilatus PC-12 Captains – San Francisco, CA
• Piaggio Captains – Boston, MA

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• Career site 
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Designing and maintaining aircraft is a central question in any aviation company. Aerospace engineers are well-equipped to solve any problem that arises, whether for manufacturers working to make flight possible to the operators who must ensure safe flight on a day-to-day basis.

These engineers design, test, and maintain technologies, systems, and parts for aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, missiles, and beyond. Without them, regular and safe flight would not be possible.

Becoming an Aerospace Engineer

The most common way to become an aerospace engineer is through a college or university. Many employers even require a four-year degree in aerospace engineering or a related field.

Schools offer aerospace engineering as a stand-alone program or as a specialty through another type of engineering. As is typical in an academic environment, aerospace engineering programs usually take between two and four years to complete depending on the depth of study and the student’s intensity of interest.

Many aerospace engineers also pursue advanced degrees after college, such as a master’s or Ph.D. This additional education can make a candidate more competitive for work after graduation.

Equally, most students pursue internships at major companies such as Boeing, SpaceX, NASA, or any number of other firms and professional organizations.

Aerospace Engineer Career Opportunities

Upon graduation, there are many job opportunities for aerospace engineers. Many pursue private sector jobs with aircraft manufacturers, defense contractors, space companies, or airlines.

Engineers are needed not only to test new products but also maintain existing projects, troubleshoot problems, and design parts to ensure the successful continuation of the company.

Equally, engineers can work for the U.S. government on contracts or, more often,  research on behalf of any number of agencies. Such work often requires security clearance to work on top-secret military or design projects for the armed forces, NASA, or Department of Defense.

The aircraft/aerospace and parts manufacturing sector employs by far the most aerospace engineers. This is logical, as the United States boasts both the largest civil aviation market and  air force in the world. There is high demand for aircraft and their parts, and there is as such a great need to maintain these aircraft and fix them when something breaks.

Other job prospects, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, include scientific research and development; navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instrument manufacturing; and support activities for air transportation as well as architectural engineering; government schools and hospitals; and the U.S. Postal Service.

Aerospace Engineer Salaries

Aerospace engineer salaries usually start at just under $40 per hour, or about $80,000 annually. Salaries top out near $100 hourly, or about $200,000 per year, with the median wage being $62 hourly or $130,000 annually.

Senior engineers in defense and manufacturing tend to be near the top end of the pay scale due to the lucrative nature of third-party contracts, scale of some operations, and monetary value of the work being done.

Being an aerospace engineer can be incredibly challenging, but it can also be highly rewarding. Many find great satisfaction in watching an aircraft they spent dozens or hundreds of hours working on finally take flight.

Engineers are the backbone of some of the most economically stimulating industries around the world and bring significant value to valuable companies. Thus, becoming an aerospace engineer is to support highly valuable, stimulating, satisfying work at the cutting edge of technology and exploration.

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Most of Castle’s operations are within a 750-mile radius of Northeast Ohio. But the company also serves Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Castle Aviation Mission Statement

“At Castle Aviation, the health and well-being of our customers, associates, and communities are our number one priority.”

Castle Aviation in the News

The Emergence of Moving ‘Man’s Best Friend’
When it comes to the transport of animals, cargo airlines have always been more than willing to get animals from their starting point to their final destination.

Castle Aviation Openings on FindaPilot.com

• Beechjet PIC in North Canton, OH
• SAAB 340B Captain in North Canton, OH

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