Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Airline pilots and flight engineers operate fixed-wing aircraft on scheduled routes, transporting passengers and cargo domestically and internationally. They work for major airlines, regional carriers, and flight instruction organizations. The role requires a Federal Air Transport certificate and type ratings for specific aircraft.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Pilots begin shifts with pre-flight inspections and weather briefings. They communicate with air traffic control, manage aircraft systems during flight, and monitor instruments continuously. Work includes takeoffs, landings, and en route navigation. Between flights, pilots complete paperwork, review schedules, and may instruct other pilots. Most work irregular schedules including early mornings, nights, and time away from home.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCE. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer structured, rule-based environments and appreciate technical problem-solving. You're detail-oriented with strong mechanical reasoning, comfortable with responsibility and decision-making under pressure, and organized in managing complex procedures. You value tangible, concrete outcomes and thrive when following established standards.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $211,400 | $618,090 | $618,090 | 8,770 |
| Idaho | $216,750 | $507,640 | $507,910 | 330 |
| Michigan | $215,440 | $428,570 | $428,570 | — |
| California | $208,070 | $353,900 | $390,260 | 10,670 |
| Kentucky | $214,120 | $350,950 | $398,760 | 6,260 |
| Colorado | $197,310 | $307,490 | $371,190 | 5,830 |
| Illinois | $204,790 | $293,490 | $420,280 | 6,460 |
| New York | $170,510 | $255,240 | $475,690 | 6,900 |
| Alaska | $185,430 | $232,140 | $369,150 | 1,350 |
| Washington | $202,420 | $229,900 | $396,810 | 3,450 |
| Arizona | $163,570 | $227,870 | $293,730 | 2,200 |
| Florida | $169,730 | $225,020 | $344,360 | 7,760 |
All 37 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) — Federal Aviation Administration
- Flight Engineer (FE) — Federal Aviation Administration
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-2011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.