Among those positions where having a well-balanced and professional resume is crucial, pilots stand out as those of the most importance in aviation. Not only should your pilot resume portray your technical flying skills, but you also need to be able to show your ability to tackle complicated situations, communicate effectively in leading a team, and stress security matters. Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to create a great pilot resume to catch the attention of any hiring manager.

Roles and Responsibilities of Pilot

Pre-flight checks: They look through aircraft systems along with all the related equipment for condition and airworthiness to fly.
Takeoff and Landing: Place the aircraft under proper control during what is sometimes referred to as the "critical phases of flight," namely takeoff, landing, and taxiing.
Navigation: Utilize advanced navigation systems and instruments to guide the aircraft along planned routes.
Communication: Provided for clear and consistent communication with air traffic control, grounds crew, as well as cabin crew.
Safety and Emergency Procedures: Reaction during in-flight emergencies, such as technical failures or unfavorable weather conditions, is maintained strictly under safety procedures.

Check out the free templates for the pilot resume.

Template 1

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Template 5

Start with a Power Resume Summary

A resume summary is your opportunity to showcase your most relevant experience and qualifications upfront. You should briefly convey your experience, certifications, and significant accomplishments and portray yourself as ready for a new challenge.

For example, "Commercial Airline Pilot with over 8,000 hours of flight experience in various domestic and international flight operations. He holds an ATP certificate and is rich in experience in all aspects related to aviation safety procedures, emergency response, and flight planning. Excellent history of successful crew management where he has consistently adhered to strict safety measures and ensured constant good levels of customer service are maintained.

Your certifications and licenses may all be the support structure of your career as a pilot. Open your resume with relevant certifications, such as your Airline Transport Pilot License, First-Class Medical Certificate, and any type rating you hold. This section indicates that you have at least met the minimum qualifications to operate the aircraft in your line of interest.

Sample of Certifications:

Airline Transport Pilot License

Boeing 737 Type Rating

FAA First-Class Medical Certificate

Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Certification

Showcase Your Experience Under the Wings

Under the wings of a resume, your log of flight hours is one of the most essential parts of a pilot resume. Airlines and aviation firms look for scope and depth in your experience. You must manage your flight hours by type:

Total Flight Hours: This is the total amount of time spent under the wings of any aircraft
PIC: This will include the time logged as the main person responsible for the flight.
Multi-engine Time: Accumulated hours flown in multi-engine aircraft.
Night Time: Accumulated hours flown after night time for at least 10 hours per month.
International Flight Hours: Hours flown internationally

Example:

Total Flight Hours: 8,500

PIC Hours: 4,200

Multi-engine time: 3,000

Night Flying Hours: 1,200

International Flying Time: 1,500

Professional Experience

The professional experience section details the exact roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments of flying for airlines, corporate, or private clients. In this section, tailor your experience toward the job you are applying for; be able to show achievements that demonstrate your ability to handle the unique conditions of a pilot's position.

Commercial Pilot

ABC Airlines | January 2015 – Present

Safely transported more than 200,000 passengers across 20 countries in domestic and international flights.
Led crew of over 4 members in Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft, strictly adhering to strict aviation safety regulations.
Coordinated efforts with ground support staff and air traffic controllers, maintaining an on-time arrival or departure rate of over 95%.
Prompted effective action in response to in-flight emergencies and adverse weather conditions, thereby protecting passengers.

Show Your Strengths

A good pilot, indeed, is an effective decision-maker, a good team player, and a leader. Write down your main skills in demonstrating different types of versatility and expertise in almost every aspect of aviation.

Technical Skills:

Flight Planning
Instrument Landing Systems (ILS)
Advanced Navigation (RNAV, GPS)
Communication in Air Traffic Control
Aviation Safety and Emergency Procedures

Soft Skills:

Decision-Making in Stressful Situations
Leading Crew and Team Interactions
Problem-Solving on Board
Effective Communication with Passengers and Crew
Accurateness

Education and Training

Include your education, including any bachelor's degree in aviation or engineering. And, any specific training programs, such as a flight school or advanced aviation training.

Example:

Bachelor of Science in Aviation
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Graduated 2009
Flight Training
ATP Flight School
Advanced Jet Training at [Name of Training Facility]

Highlight Achievements and Awards

If you have received any awards or rewards, keep them on a different page. These could be for safety, performance, or anything else considered in the aviation world.

Examples

FAA Safety Excellence Award (2021)
Award for Performance Airline Achieving 100% On-Time Flight (2019)
Award for the Milestone of Reaching 5000 hours of flight without incidents or safety violation

Customize for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Most airlines and aviation companies filter the resumes using an Applicant Tracking System. Thus, use the keywords of the job description to ensure that your resume successfully passes through the computer systems. Consider using terms such as "commercial pilot," "ATP certification," "flight hours," "crew leadership," "FAA compliance," and others depending on the specific role.

Conclusion

The creation of an excellent pilot resume is founded on technical expertise, flight hours, and leadership. You can stand out from your peers by portraying an apt balance of your qualifications and experience when appearing at a job bid. Prepare each one uniquely for the specific job you're seeking, and highlight those skills and accomplishments best suited for the position. A good, professional resume puts you closer to your next flight.

Pilot Resume Templates for 2024