Working in the Aviation Industry

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

1. Explain the qualifying criteria needed to enter into the workforce as an aviation professional. (LO 1, LO2)
2. Argue the importance of ethical behavior for personnel working in the aviation industry. (LO 1)
3. Explain the privileges associated with holding an aviation certification. (LO 1, LO 2)
4. Differentiate between the qualifications, certifications, and limitations of pilots, maintenance, avionics, dispatch, and air traffic control professionals. (LO 2)

Are you thinking about a career in the aviation industry? If so, this is a great time for you. According to current market data, there is going to be a need of 754,000 technicians, 790,000 pilots, and 890,000 cabin crew members. In this first module, we will look at the qualifications, certifications, and attributes that are required to enter into the aviation industry and fulfill these, and other, positions. We will also explore the concept of ethical behavior—more specifically how ethical behavior is a guiding principle of the aviation professional.

Explain the qualifying criteria needed to enter into the workforce as an aviation professional. (LO 1, LO2)

The aviation industry is a constantly evolving one which constantly needs people to keep up with the technology and constantly need to update their skillsets. There are many jobs in the aviation sector that require a qualification.

To work as an aviation professional, you will need certain qualifications. The qualifications can range from a diploma through to a master’s degree which will take around 3-5 years to complete. By completing these qualifications, you can enter into different occupations within the industry such as pilots, commercial pilots, air traffic controllers or flight dispatchers.

In order to qualify for these jobs you will need a college diploma or an associate degree in the aviation field and if you want to pursue higher education you can get either a Bachelors or Masters degree which usually takes around 3-5 years each.

1. Argue the importance of ethical behavior for personnel working in the aviation industry. (LO 1)

   The aviation industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, and there is a lot of profit to be made. With this comes a lot of responsibility and an increasing need for ethical behavior.

2. Explain the privileges associated with holding an aviation certification. (LO 1, LO 2)

   An aviation certification is a credential given to a pilot, flight instructor, or a technician who has demonstrated knowledge and skill through examination, training, and experience. The privileges come with the credential itself.

3. Differentiate between the qualifications, certifications, and limitations of pilots, maintenance, avionics, dispatch, and air traffic control professionals.

   All of these jobs require a certain level of expertise and education. But what is the difference between them? What are the common qualifications, certifications, and limitations of each one?