How to become a Pilot

How to become a Pilot Has the buzz of flying always been the most exciting part of your holidays? Did you go to the airport as a kid just to watch the planes take off? Then you could have the passion required to become a Pilot.There are lots of different types of Pilot, but well focus on those who work for airlines here. Your role will involve taking the helm of various sizes of aeroplane and getting their passengers or cargo safely to their destinations.Your main duties for this role would include:Carrying out equipment checks prior to each flight to ensure optimum safety levelsChecking routes with air traffic controllers and altering them if necessary (e.g. if there is bad weather)Controlling planes in mid-air and responding to in-flight informationFollowing instructions from ground staff to ensure a safe landingWriting up detailed reports and logs relating to each flight for future referenceIs it right for me?First of all, if you get homesick and dont really like travelling, then think again before sta rting your Pilots training. Youll need to be prepared to spend lots of time away from home in this job, plus youll be working very irregular hours due to varying flight lengths.A good Pilot will be:ResponsibleCalm and able to make decisions in a crisisGreat at working in a teamAble to concentrate for long periodsGood at following and giving instructionsCompetent with technologyWhat's it really like? People eager to become a Pilot need to remember that it can be tough - it's not like it looks in the movies. The hours are long, I don't see much of my own bed and there's a lot of pressure. On the other hand, if you love flying and planes in general, there couldn't be a better career. I also benefit from excellent perks like free travel, being put up in top hotels and a great salary. Not only that, but I enjoy some pretty amazing views from my office window! Get qualifiedBefore you can start training, youll need to pass a fitness, hearing and eyesight test. You can then aim towards your Airline Transport Pilots Licence (ATPL), or frozen ATPL, allowing you to work as a First Officer (Co-Pilot). This required a minimum of 195 hours flying time. Next, once you have completed 1,500 flying hours, you can apply for a full ATPL to qualify as an Airline Captain.