Pilot jobs and what you should know about them
So you want to become a professional pilot? Before taking the plunge, it is essential to do your homework so you know what you are getting into. The listed advantages and disadvantages of being a professional pilot is just a start and might give you some food for thought....
The good
You will be relatively independent and pretty much your own boss
You will get around and see different places
You will mostly have highly skilled people around you
Pilot jobs are generally paid well, although not as high as they used to be
Boeing forecasts a pilot shortage for the next twenty years
You don't have to think what to wear every day
You get to know people from other cultures
At the end of the day, your mind is free
Look at the world from above as much as you want and discover the beauty of it
The bad
You will work at any time of the day/night
You won't be able to drink or eat whenever you please, but when the schedule permits
A good health is essential and loss of licence a permanent threat
Employment opportunities are limited and change of employer means often relocation
Pilot jobs and family life is something that does not match very well. Some manage though...
You will have to prove every 6 months your proficiency
Food on board is in most cases not of very high quality
Little to no exercise during work
The risk of getting bored with the job is quite high and often a reason why people leave pilot jobs
To be a pilot is not enough, piloting skills alone will not get you another job on the ground