Professional Flight

A professional flight expert may fly helicopters, airplanes, or both in order to transport passengers or cargo; however, some professional flight experts are also involved with spreading seed for reforestation, dusting crops, or testing aircraft. In addition to actually flying the aircraft, professional flight experts must also inspect the aircraft prior to taking flight, layout a plan for the trip, and coordinate with other air traffic in order to ensure a safe flight.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the income of professional flight experts varies greatly according to the size and type of aircraft that is flown. Earnings also vary according to the maximum speed of the aircraft as well as the number of miles the professional flight expert flies. Those who fly jet aircraft, for example, typically receive a higher income than those who fly turboprops.

In order to become a professional flight expert with an airline, you need to complete at least 2 years of college in addition to your flight training. Many employers, however, require their professional flight experts to have a bachelor's degree or higher. Professional flight experts must also obtain FAA licensure. To obtain this licensure, you must be at least 18 years old and you must complete a minimum of 250 hours of flight training.