Career Opportunities

Airline hiring is at its highest levels since the introductions of the domestic jet airliners in the 1960’s. While the disruption in airline travel after 9/11 caused a break in this trend, it is widely expected to resume due to several factors.

First, there’s a mandatory retirement from airline flying at age 60. With thousands of military-trained pilots from the Vietnam era hitting that age, future opportunities remain exciting. ABC News recently reported that within the next 10 years, over half of all airline pilots will be leaving the airline industry via retirement. This means that by 2012, there will be a 19% increase in job availabilities according to current national labor and occupational statistics.

Secondly, airlines are shifting some of their flight services to regional aircraft, requiring more pilots. This increase in regional jets offers attractive “jet” jobs earlier in a pilot’s career.

And third, there is an increasing demand for corporate and cargo pilots. These highly sought after jobs have great benefits that include a less routine fight schedule, varied destinations, and an attractive salary.

Median income for pilots reaches nearly $130,000 annually with many States reporting even higher salaries. The National Pilot Academy prides ourselves on placing our graduates in jobs that range from cargo and regional positions to the highly sought after corporate flight departments. In fact, we have placed 100% of our graduates within their careers!