Typical Tasks
Obtain and review data such as load weights, fuel supplies, weather conditions, and flight schedules to determine flight plans and identify needed changes.
Check aircraft prior to flights to ensure that the engines, controls, instruments, and other systems are functioning properly.
Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.
Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight according to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.
Choose routes, altitudes, and speeds that will provide the fastest, safest, and smoothest flights.
A day in the life
What kind of work is this?
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Enterprising
Business based Work
What personality traits do you need to succeed?
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Cooperation
Self-Control
Stress Tolerance
Initiative
What key skills are needed for this job?
Operation and Control
Operations Monitoring
Monitoring
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Judgment and Decision Making
Expected Knowledge
Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Geography
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Common Activities
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
