Aircraft pilot - overview

What does an aircraft pilot do?

A role as an aircraft pilot could see you travelling worldwide by plane, helicopter or other aircraft. This might be as a commercial pilot, private pilot, or as a cargo transporter. Other pilot roles include giving flying lessons, rescuing injured people, dusting crops or spreading seeds for reforestation.

As well as working at great heights and in often cramped environments, you may have to spend several nights away from home. Even so, it’s an exciting and prestigious career where you’ll travel to all kinds of places and work with many different people.

What will your days involve?

Daily tasks will vary but could involve:

• Using weather and air traffic control data to decide which routes to take
• Carrying out pre-flight checks of the aircraft and safety systems
• Working with a copilot and taking turns controlling the plane
• Communicating with air traffic control
• Navigating the aircraft, control speed and height
• Instructing the cabin crew
• Telling passengers about journey progress
• Writing reports about any in-flight issues

FAQs

How much can you earn as an aircraft pilot?

The average salary for an aircraft pilot in the UK is £88,920. Graduates start at around £34,500.

Does an aircraft pilot role involve travel in the UK or overseas?

It goes without saying that you’ll be travelling a lot as an aircraft pilot. Whether you mainly fly within the UK, Europe or worldwide depends on the airline or company you work for.

Can you work from home as an aircraft pilot?

For the majority of your working hours, you’ll be in airports and in the skies, so working from home is not possible in this role.