What does a pilot do?
A career as a pilot can allow you to see the world. Taking to the skies, you will be responsible for transporting people and goods – ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. There are many different types of pilot jobs, and what you chose to specialise in will dictate the purpose of your flights. For example, a commercial pilot will have authority to fly aircrafts for commercial activities such as transporting passengers domestically or internationally; alternatively, a cargo pilot is focused on transporting goods via air.Is a career as a pilot right for me?
Pilots are of course passionate about flying but if you’re considering a career in aviation it’s also helpful to have skills and attributes including:
- good situational awareness and attention to detail
- strong problem-solving skills
- the ability to work well under pressure
- exceptional communication skills
- efficient time management skills.
How to become a pilot
Every journey to study is individual and there are several paths to reaching your career in aviation. To become a pilot in Australia, you need to pass both practical and theoretical exams to obtain a pilot licence, issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
At UniSQ, when you study a Bachelor of Aviation (Flight Management) you will experience flying in the first year of your study. In the second year you may conduct the majority of your flying training and then complete the rest of the degree either on-campus or online in your third year. If you join the Qantas Group Future Pilot Program, you will undertake two years of study, followed by flight training in your third year.
At UniSQ, we offer the following degrees in the area of aviation:
Average salary per week
$2594
Future demand
Moderate
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Last updated May 2024.
Degree
Study mode
Campus
Start
Pilot FAQs
What is the average pilot salary?
The average pilot salary in Australia can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of pilot you are. Please see the salary information on this page for further details.
How long does it take to become a pilot?
The time it takes to become a pilot depends on the type of licence you’re pursuing.
Our Bachelor of Aviation (Flight Operations) takes three years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) and includes two years of academic study followed by flight training in your final year. Once you’ve completed your flight training, the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) will issue your Commercial Pilot Licence, allowing you to fly professionally and receive payment for your services.
How much does a pilot license cost in Australia?
The cost of a pilot licence varies depending on the licence type. UniSQ’s Bachelor of Aviation (Flight Operations) offers structured training and the possibility of block credit for certain VET-registered diplomas, reducing the overall cost of obtaining your qualifications.
Are pilot jobs in demand?
The need for pilots, particularly in the commercial and airline sectors, remains steady. Demand can vary based on the type of flying, with higher competition for airline roles. However, opportunities are still available for qualified pilots, especially as the industry grows and replaces retiring pilots.
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