Many signs point to a recovery in the aviation industry: in fact, Cessna announced it is re-hiring 180 employees that had to be laid off last year. Nearly every industry has been suffering for well over two years now, but blue skies lie ahead. If you’ve always dreamed of a career in the field of aviation, now is a great time to do it. There are grants and loans available to help finance your education, and excellent flight schools and other facilities that offer the very best aviation training anywhere. Here is a quick look at some of the great careers in aviation today.
A Career as a Pilot
The most visible and “glamorous” job in the aviation industry, piloting an aircraft requires a commitment to extensive aviation training, great character, and a sense of responsibility. Pilots transport people, goods, cargo: all of which must be cared for with utmost diligence. Educational requirements vary depending on the type of piloting license you set your sights on. Careers in this competitive field include:
- Major/National Airline Pilot
- Commuter/Regional Airline Pilot
- Air Freight/Cargo Pilot
- Helicopter Pilot
- Corporate Pilot
- Charter Pilot
- Ferry Pilot
- Flight Instructor
Just as educational requirements for these positions vary, so do salaries and benefits. Be sure to research your chosen field carefully before committing, and contact several good flight schools in your area for detailed information and job outlooks.
Careers in Aviation Mechanics
Not everyone wants to fly: some mechanically-minded people would much prefer being responsible for keeping aircraft in the air instead! Fortunately, the outlook is great for aviation mechanics across a broad spectrum of specialties: there will always be plane and helicopters that need to be maintained in peak condition. Excellent mechanics are an integral and essential part of the aviation industry and are responsible for the lives millions of crew members and passengers each and every day. Aviation training can prepare you for a career as a/an:
- Aircraft Mechanic
- Maintenance Technician
- Service Technician
The above are very broad categories, each containing numerous different certifications that can be earned. One thing’s for sure: if you are a wiz with engines, fascinated with aircraft, and dedicated in your studies and attainment of necessary certifications, there will always be a demand for your unique skills in the aviation world.
Now is the time to let your horizons soar. Aviation Schools Online is a great resource for those who are interested in obtaining aviation training. This convenient directory will lead you to great flight schools in your area that are ready and able to prepare you for your new career in the aviation industry.
Piper Aircraft announced the newest addition to its family of aircraft, the PiperSport LSA. According to the company’s website, the entry level LSA model starts at $119,900 and the fully loaded version tops out at $139,900, including advanced avionics, Dynon flat panel instrumentation, and an autopilot. The light sport aircraft will be available in three levels of trim and all will include a BRS airframe parachute. The plane is powered, like most LSAs, by the venerable Rotax 912 which runs on either 100LL aviation fuel or premium unleaded auto fuel.
In an effort to support the rescue efforts in Haiti, 
