A pilot is usually an individual who flies an airplane or flies an aircraft in a controlled environment. An individual who flies an airplane may also be required to fly an aerial refuelling or combat aircraft, depending on their license type. Some pilots also serve as military aviators, as they are often required to fly combat aircraft. The term “pilot” can apply to any person holding a pilot licence. There are many different types of pilot licence categories in the United States, as well as in most other countries.
Flight Time The majority of pilots will receive flight time on an airplane every week. Some pilots may receive more flight time than others. Flight time is measured in hours. This means a certain number of hours must be logged each week for a pilot to be qualified. Some pilots may only have one or two hours of flight time per week, while others may log forty-five to sixty-five hours per week.
Training The training requirements of a pilot job description may also differ depending on the type of pilot that they intend to be. Pilots can obtain their international pilot licence by meeting basic requirements, which include a pilot education from accredited universities. They must also successfully pass a written examination from the FAA. The examination is designed to ensure that the pilot has the knowledge necessary to safely fly a plane in controlled conditions, before being released into the recreational flying population. Some pilots may spend more time training in an actual cockpit environment, while others may rely on pre-flight training provided by the airlines. This training is usually given by FAA certified instructors.
Flight Experience All pilots must accumulate a certain amount of flight time before becoming licensed. Some pilots can meet this requirement by taking short flights, and landing and collecting money as a reward. Others must complete more flights in order to meet the required flight time requirement. Each airline will have its own set of requirements. In addition to flying experience, some pilots are required to accumulate more flight hours, before they can apply for their commercial pilot licence.
Commercial Pilot Licence When pilots have successfully completed their training and obtained their commercial pilot licence, they can apply to take a final examination from the FAA. This examination is designed to ensure that the pilot has met all the requirements of their aviation training and has the knowledge necessary to safely operate a commercial aircraft. If successful, pilots will then be issued their license to fly.
Post Flight Courses Every few weeks after a pilot begins to fly, they are required to attend a pre-flight safety meeting in an aircraft, by sitting in the same aircraft as the flight crew. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss any new developments or issues, and to make sure that the pilot has a clear understanding of the current weather conditions. When a pilot is released from their post-flight training, they may need to take additional training from an aviation school, to update their skills and knowledge.