Aviation Job Description

The aviation industry employs a wide variety of careers from pilots to air traffic controllers. Work hours are often irregular, although typically on-land positions have a more established work schedule. Each position has differing duties and each is responsible for the safety of millions of airline passengers each year.

Types of Jobs

The aviation industry offers a wide variety of jobs. Pilots and co-pilots fly both commercial and private planes. Commercial pilots shuttle passengers from one destination to another, typically cross-country. Pilots for smaller planes do charter flights for small groups, individuals and work as product carriers for companies. Flight attendants also work on-board and are responsible for all on-board customer service.

The industry also contains jobs based on-land. Aircraft mechanics typically repair and inspect planes on the runway, but they spend most hours in hangars, where the planes are stored. Air traffic controllers work in air towers and on runways directing traffic.

Salaries

Typically, pilots employed by commercial airlines make the highest salaries and are at the upper end of the salary scale. In 2009, commercial pilots' salaries ranged from $85,000 to $136,000. Pilots for smaller carriers had annual salaries in the $67,000-to-$122,000 range.

Air traffic controllers' salaries are similar to those of pilots. The median salary for air traffic controllers was $117,000 in 2009. Lower down on the pay scale are aviation mechanics, who made on average roughly $43,000 per year. Flight attendants' salaries vary per airline. Starting salaries for new positions began at $16,000 with additional benefits, including per diems and free airfare tickets.

Education and Certification

Pilots typically need at least a two-year college degree to enter the profession, although some employers require more. To be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), pilots must complete a set amount of flying hours and simulator training. Air traffic controllers must complete a FAA-approved education course. Both pilots and controller must pass a pre-employment screening, a medical exam and security clearance before being hired.

Some mechanic positions provide on-the-job training. Most aircraft mechanics, however, need to complete a FAA training course prior to employment. To obtain a position as a flight attendant, a high school diploma at minimum is required. Many airlines also require college degrees. After hire, attendants attend a formal training process that lasts roughly three to eight weeks. Upon completion, they receive certification as required by the FAA.

Duties

Pilots fly different types of aircraft, ranging from small, single engine planes to large commercial jets. Some pilots fly cargo for the government and private companies, while other pilots fly individuals or groups. Air traffic controllers direct and navigate pilots in the air via computerized equipment and also direct runway traffic.

Aircraft mechanics perform pre-flight inspections on aircraft, troubleshoot various mechanical problems and repair all mechanical problems on the aircraft. Many times they do work indoors in a hangar, but often they are outside in inclement weather performing inspections and repairs under time pressures.

Flight attendants are responsible for passenger safety procedures and customer service on-board. They explain safety procedures, communicate with pilots regarding problems or concerns and assist passengers with refreshments, flight information and other emergency items, such as first aid.

Hours

Hours differ greatly in the aviation industry. Pilots and flight attendants have similar hours. Typically, one third of their time is spent away from their home location. Both work up to 12 hours a day year-round. Most pilots and flight attendants work 65 to 75 hours per month and work alternating days, nights, weekends and holidays.

Air traffic controllers and aircraft mechanics work a basic 40-hour work week. Each position may work overtime hours on an as-needed basis. Because air towers and hangars are open seven days a week, controllers and mechanics alternate nights and weekends.

References

• FFA.gov: Jobs with the Federal Aviation Administration
• SalaryWizard.com: Airline Pilot
• BLS.gov: Aircraft Pilots