We surveyed 1,303 pilots to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical pilot. Here are the results.
How much intelligence is required as a pilot?
Low
High
Working as a pilot typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.
Can I learn to become a pilot?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as a pilot typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.
Is it easy to get a job as a pilot?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically quite difficult to find a job as a pilot. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for pilots.
Do pilots work full-time or part-time?
70% of pilots work in full-time roles while 30% work part-time.
Is being a pilot stressful?
Low
High
Stress is very commonplace for pilots, contributing negatively towards career satisfaction.
Is being organized important as a pilot?
Low
High
Organization is not considered a particuarly important part of being a pilot.
How competitive is the workplace for pilots?
Low
High
Pilots tend to see lots of competition in the workplace, with desire to get ahead of co-workers being common.
Does being a pilot require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Time pressure tends not to be a major contributor of stress for pilots.
Are pilots allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Pilots are afforded a certain level of ability to express themselves creatively, compared to other careers.
Do pilots have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
Pilots have high flexibility in the direction of their work, allowing them a lot of freedom in how they accomplish their goals.
Is being a pilot physically demanding?
Low
High
Being a pilot may occasionally require demanding physical activity, which may make it not a suitable career choice for everyone.
Are pilots exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
Pilots tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.
Does being a pilot require attention to detail?
Low
High
As in many careers, attention to detail is quite helpful for pilots.
Does being a good pilot require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a pilot.