We surveyed 451 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 not uncommon amongst pilots, with daily work sometimes being quite demanding.
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 rarely get a chance to express themselves creatively.
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.