Did you know?
Individuals that are interested in an Aviation degree are more than likely interested in becoming a pilot. However, did you know that there are other career opportunities associated with aviation degrees? Career opportunities also include Air Traffic Controllers, Flight Instructors, Airline Managers, Aviation Managers, etc. Students earning their aviation degrees will spend time in the field, as well as in the classroom. Students may need to pass certain certifications and tests in addition to earning their degree, in order to secure one of these career opportunities. Let’s take a deeper dive into aviation career paths.
Job Spotlight: Pilot
Students interested in aviation and flying may choose an aviation major to become one of the many types of pilots. There are multiple different types of pilots, including military, corporate, and commercial airline pilots. Different pilots are usually trained on different kinds of aircraft, including planes, helicopters, and military-grade aircraft. Pilots typically perform job duties such as:
- Evaluating the condition of the aircraft prior to takeoff
- Ensuring the aircraft is properly weighted and has enough fuel
- Controlling and navigating the aircraft during flight
- Communicating with air traffic control
- Monitoring aircraft systems during the flight for safety
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the median annual salary for airline and commercial pilots in 2018 was $115,670. The BLS also reported that the job outlook for these professionals from 2018 to 2028 was 6%
Job Spotlight: Flight Instructor
Much like a driver’s education instructor, pilots need to be taught how to fly planes by a flight instructor. Flight instructors educate future pilots on safety measures, protocols, and the main skills that are required for flying an aircraft. Flight instructors are critical in maintaining the future of pilots and aircrafts alike.
As of September 2019, flight instructors had a median annual salary of $64,075. While the BLS did not report a specific job outlook for flight instructors, the BLS did report a general 7% outlook for all occupations within the field of air transportation workers.
*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook
Is an Aviation degree a good fit for me?
Did you grow up playing with toy planes, or always looking up at the sky, waiting for a plane to fly by? Were you torn between going into the military and becoming a pilot? With an aviation degree, you don’t have to pick between the two. Becoming a pilot may be the perfect career for you! Your first step? Earn that Aviation Degree!