Commercial Pilot Job Outlook

By Kyle Garrett

Commercial pilot jobs are expected to grow 12% from 2008 to 2018, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. As the population grows, new markets emerge, and the economy expands, commercial operators will have to respond with more aircraft, more routes, and more pilots. Since seniority is one of the primary factors affecting a commercial pilot's chances for advancement, the sooner you get hired, the better. Read more about commercial pilot salaries.

Commercial Pilot Career Path

When applying for any pilot job, the more flight hours you've accumulated the better chance you'll have of being hired. Most commercial pilots start out doing flight training either at a local flight school or at the flight training academy or college attended. Flight training allows newly-minted commercial pilots to build up flight hours quickly. Most flight academies have hiring programs in place so that graduates can transition into flight instructor jobs quickly after graduation. Be sure to check with your flight school to find out if you can get a commercial pilot job with them upon graduation.

Commercial Pilot Careers

After you've accumulated a significant number of flight hours, you can begin applying for other commercial pilot jobs, such as aerial photography, geologic surveys, firefighting, cargo operations, banner towing, sightseeing, air taxi, charter, corporate aviation, and even co-pilot for a regional airline. Get more information about earning a commercial pilot license.

Commercial Pilot Job Links

• Airline Job Finder - Commercial Pilot Jobs
• Air Taxi or Charter Pilot Career Overview
• Commercial Pilot Jobs and Job Description