Getting an interview for a position in aviation is a great achievement, no matter if you are a new pilot, just coming out of training, or a veteran aviator looking for a new opportunity. Hiring is active by airlines, charter companies and private operators in 2022. Candidates must stand out in the interview. A polished resume may get you in the door, but your interview performance could keep the door closed. As an aviation student and aspiring aviation professional myself, I put together some best practices that capture what today’s recruiters are looking for based on my research, trends in the labor market, and input from those already working in the industry.

🛫 Know the Company You’re Interviewing With

Prior to your upcoming interview, be sure to do some research about the airline or aviation company you are interviewing with. Learn about their routes, values, fleet and mission statement . Interviewers are always impressed with candidates who demonstrate an interest in their airline and have done some research.

🎯 Be Ready for Behavioral Questions

Most aviation companies tend to use behavioral questions to assess how you handle pressure, work in a team, and make decisions. Make sure to practice using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) method so that you can convey your previous experiences in a clear and confident manner.

👨‍✈️ Emphasize Safety and Responsibility

Safety is a top priority in aviation. Be prepared to discuss how you apply safety to your flying. Discuss if you use checklist discipline, CRM (Crew Resource Management), or how you previously responded to specific situations. Being able to discuss real-life examples will always strengthen your answer.

🧠 Showcase Soft Skills, Not Just Flight Hours

Having enough flight time in today’s job market is no longer enough. Employers are interested in your ability to communicate, problem-solve, and work with others. Whether you are a part of a crew or communicating with people on the ground, your ability to sync with others makes a world of difference.

🔁  Prepare Questions to Ask the Interviewer

At the end of the interview, you will most likely be asked, “Do you have any questions?”. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your interest in the airline and your proactive approach. Any questions regarding career development opportunities, training programs, and support offered for new pilots will be beneficial to know.

✍️ Final Thoughts

The aviation world is incredibly fast-paced and constantly evolving. Interviews are not always easy, but with thorough preparation, you will shine in the interview and have a positive impact. Stay professional, be yourself, and most importantly, demonstrate your passion for flying. Websites like FlightLevelJobs.com are great for applying for job vacancies; however, how you prepare for the interview is what will take those job vacancies and turn them into a career.