With the privatisation, lot of avenues have opened for CPL holders.
They can find employment opportunities in both government (Indian Airlines,
Air India) as well as private domestic and international (Jet Airways,
Sahara etc.) airlines. Even large corporate houses with their own aircraft
require the services of pilots.
Career options
In this field after getting CPL one start as a trainee pilot. After
being a trainee, one becomes a pilot or first officer on board based on
ones seniority. Seniority is determined by hours of flying experience
and successful completion of various programs. Then one becomes a Commander
or Captain and thereafter a Senior Commander.
From pre-take off to actual landing and signing off, pilot must be highly
responsible. Before take-off pilots check pre-flight plans. These includes
the route to be taken and height maintained, meteorological readings,
conditions of all equipments, air pressure and temperature inside the
aircraft etc. They have to do complex calculations of take-off and landing
and have to check fuel needed for the particular distance to be traveled
and height and weight to be maintained. During the flight too pilot must
be constantly alert, ensuring there are no mechanical snags, maintaining
contact with air traffic controls and cabin crew through-out the flight.
He also has to keep a record of flight details.
