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There are several enticing reasons to choose a career as an airline pilot. Some want the opportunity to see the world, some just love to fly, but most cannot deny the salary as another attractive benefit. Considering the cost of flight school is relatively small, especially when you think of the cost of traditional collegiate schooling, the paycheck made as a pilot offers more than a return on the investment. Most people may not be aware that an airline pilot is actually paid by the hour as opposed to an annual salary. Because of this, the amount of money a pilot makes varies greatly depending on several factors including the type of aircraft you fly, what airline you fly for, and your experience. If you are looking to become a pilot and want to know what is a pilot’s average salary, read on to find out more about what factors influence a pilot’s paycheck.

What Affects How Much a Pilot Makes?

To put it simply, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median airline pilot salary to be $160,970, but this number can be vastly different for each pilot depending on several factors listed below.

Flight Hours

Ultimately, pilots are paid for the number of hours flown each year. However, you will need to consider a pilot cannot fly more than 1,000 hours each year for the safety of everyone involved by ensuring pilots are well-rested. Knowing this, you have some control over the money you make, as pilots who schedule more flights will end up making more money.

Experience

Your compensation offers will likely increase as you gain more years of experience. Typically, you will start as a first officer and work your way up to a captain, where you will see a significant jump in your hourly rate. Having more experience will allow you to apply for available captain positions. As a bonus that comes with seniority, you will be able to pick out your schedule each month, deciding the number of flights and type of aircraft you get to fly. This will ensure you get closer to the 1,000 minimum hours.

Type of Aircraft

It’s advantageous to get experience flying different kinds of aircraft, but as a rule of thumb, the larger the aircraft you fly, the larger the hourly rate. When picking your flights, choosing the largest flights available will let you earn more money.

Airline

Although two pilots in a similar position will earn roughly the same, salaries can vary if the pilots work at different airlines. When deciding what airline to work for, do your research to determine the pros and cons of different airlines, and prepare for interviews to get the job at the place you want.

Airline Pilot Benefits

On top of a good salary and excellent employment health and retirement benefits, there are a few other perks to flying an airliner. Although this may already be a huge influence on your decision making already, pilots can take advantage of free flights whenever there are empty seats, including bringing friends and family. This could be an invaluable benefit for someone who may want to frequently visit family who lives far away.

While flying, you may also receive a per diem to cover expenses needed while on trips, such as hotel and food costs. Most of the time, you will be able to claim the extra amount you do not use as additional income throughout the year.

Occasionally pilots may receive bonuses, either as a sign-on incentive to remain competitive or as a percentage of the airline’s profits.

What About Private or Commercial Pilots?

Becoming an airline pilot takes a lot of time, money, and effort, so what other careers are there outside of airline pilots, and how much do they get paid? If completing the necessary hours to become an airline pilot seems too daunting, you can always opt to become a commercial pilot or flight instructor instead. This way, you can save money but still earn a decent living or even start earning money on your way to becoming an airline pilot.

Flight Instructor

To earn the required flight hours for a license, some choose to work at a flight school and become an instructor, an excellent career choice for some if you continue as an instructor, you can expect to make around $45,000 to $75,000 a year. However, if you become a head flight instructor at your school, your salary may go higher.

Commercial Pilot

If you decide just to earn your commercial pilot’s license, you still have a few job choices that do not require flying a commercial airliner. If you enjoy taking scenic rides with groups of people, tour guides can make around $50,000 a year. A more lucrative option would be a career as a crop duster, and while this can pay over $100,000, it does require more knowledge about agricultural practices. Another easy way to collect more flight hours while earning a license is to tow banners, which can pay over $20 an hour.

Begin Your Piloting Adventure with J.A. Air and J.A. Flight Training

Are you ready to begin earning your piloting license? If now is the time for YOU to start flight school, start looking at the next steps! J.A. Flight Training is conveniently based in Chicago’s western suburb, Sugar Grove. No matter which career path you follow, you can count on experiential learning with the most up-to-date equipment, flight simulators, and aircrafts available.

We are proud to offer world-class training that prepares our students for a successful future as a pilot through flexible classes and affordable programs. If you would like to receive more information about our flight training program, contact us today to get started on your new career path.

Thanks to electronic logs and document storage, gone are the days of pilots lugging around heavy flight bags. However, you can still expect to bring along certain pilot supplies to use on every flight. Whether you’re an experienced pilot or you’ve recently acquired your private or commercial license, there’s an important list of tools you’ll want (and need) to fly!

Some supplies are essential while others are nice to have—just in case. Regardless, staying well-prepared aids in a safe and smooth flight! In the content below, we will define the top ten pilot supplies to always have on hand to prepare you for long flight times and layovers.

The Top 10 Pilot Supplies to Always Have on Hand

#1. Pilot’s License, Photo ID, & Medical Certificate

First and foremost, you cannot fly without your pilot’s license, government-issued photo ID, and medical certificate. These documents and certificates are legal requirements to always have on hand as a pilot! Therefore, keep these documents accessible in your flight bag so you can stay organized and easily retrieve them for security checkpoints.

#2. Flight Bag

One of the most basic yet essential items you need as a pilot is a flight bag. Depending on your flying schedules and routes, you’ll want to consider a small or large flight bag for holding pilot and medical certificates, headsets, charts, and devices, among other miscellaneous items.

#3. Headset

Equally as important as your photo identification and pilot license, an aviation headset is also a must-have pilot supply to always have with you. Having a proper aviation headset is crucial because it is your primary means of communication during flight.

Therefore, you need a comfortable headset with a proper fit, high-quality audio speakers, a microphone, and noise-canceling features to eliminate irrelevant background noise. Don’t forget to also pack spare batteries for your headset!

#4. Digital Tablet

Another must-have in our top ten pilot supplies list includes some form of digital tablet! Digital tablets and handheld devices such as an iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ make it simple and easy to access navigational charts, logbooks, and supplemental digital documents. Therefore, equip your tablet with the proper charting and navigation apps like ForeFlight and SkyDemon to significantly benefit your flight experience.

#5. Kneeboard Case

A kneeboard is an old-school yet essential pilot supply to always have on hand for every flight. The accessory straps to your upper thigh and allows for hands-free use of navigation apps and charts during flight. It’s a functional yet lightweight tool that even enables you to charge your devices while in use. There’s also a convenient space to keep pen and paper!

#6. Non-Polarized Sunglasses

Non-polarized sunglasses are among the top ten necessary pilot supplies to ensure proper vision and reduce eye fatigue throughout daytime flying. Therefore, as your vision is one of a pilot’s most valuable assets, be sure to invest in a non-polarized lens. Doing so allows you to effectively see readings from instruments that have anti-glare filters!

#7. Handheld Two-Way Radio

Communication is another non-negotiable essential during your flight, and although your primary communication source is your headset, sometimes…things happen! Therefore, we highly recommend carrying a handheld two-way radio for backup because a lack of communication may lead to problematic and dangerous situations. Additionally, be sure to also pack charging cradles, cables, and a spare battery in your flight bag.

#8. Fuel Tester

During your pre-flight checklist, you’ll want to check for fuel quality. Therefore, we recommend adding a fuel tester to your inventory of important pilot supplies.

A fuel tester allows you to check for water or solid contaminants in your aircraft’s fuel since you may get different fuel from other airports. This compact, lightweight tool is easy to use, fits discretely into your flight bag, and often comes with a reversible screwdriver attachment.

#9. Snacks & Water

Stay prepared for long flights and layovers by having a few snacks on hand, along with a water bottle or two. Although snacks may not seem like an essential pilot supply, being hungry or thirsty during a flight can potentially affect your cognitive and decision-making skills. With long flight times, layovers, and delays, you’ll be thankful for high-protein snacks that sustain your energy when a meal isn’t an option.

#10. First Aid & Other Emergency Supplies

A first aid kit keeps minimal cuts and scrapes under control while giving you peace of mind during more series emergencies. Although first aid kits are not suitable substitutions for real medical treatment, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive kit and the knowledge of how to use the tools inside to provide basic medical assistance when necessary. Other emergency pilot supplies to include in your first aid and emergency supply kit include a flashlight and a pocketknife.

Experience First Class Aircraft Services with J.A. Air

Now that you have your flight bag packed with our top ten pilot supplies to always have on hand, it’s time to consider other aircraft services to aid your aviation!

At J.A. Air Center, our knowledgeable, licensed, factory-trained team provides superior workmanship with attention to detail and quality for things like aircraft maintenance, detailing services, refurbishing, and avionics installation.

Not only will your aircraft look and fly its very best with our services, but you’ll also feel confident that our first-class customer support will adequately handle all of your needs. Pack your pilot bag and contact us today!

Owning an aircraft is an exciting venture to embark on, but it’s common for the ebbs and flows of life to lead to the next chapter. Whether that chapter involves accommodating new flying habits or transitioning to a different passion, you’ll soon ask yourself, “How can I sell my aircraft?”

When considering each component involved in selling an aircraft, it’s easy to feel intimidated, especially if you’re newer to the market. Fortunately, we make the selling process simple! Below, we discuss the first steps in selling your aircraft including paperwork organization, maintenance, and cleaning.

How To Sell My Aircraft: The First 3 Steps

#1. Compiling & Organizing Paperwork

Selling an aircraft is no small feat. It’s a responsibility-laden process involving interested buyers and thorough documentation: every detail must be accounted for. From the day you buy your airplane, you are expected to complete and maintain mounds of paperwork including logbooks, maintenance records, and A.D. compliances.

One of the initial and most important steps in the selling process is to acquire and organize all paperwork, whether you do so by partnering with an aircraft brokerage selling independently.

To begin, draft and make copies of all documented records as the sale progresses. You must also acquire service, maintenance, and technological histories. If you have yet to list your aircraft for sale or are still considering the possibility, it’s best to stay proactive about organizing all the necessary papers for an efficient, seamless sale.

We understand this may pose as time consuming for personal and corporate schedules. Therefore, we recommend partnering with aviation brokerage services to work on your behalf of the selling process, ultimately saving you both time and money.

#2. Aircraft Maintenance

As dedicated as you are to your favorite bird, it’s no surprise the maintenance and upkeep you adamantly implemented will ultimately bolster the sale of your aircraft. Overhaul, inspection, and replacement alike ensure your aircraft complies with the highly regulated industry.

While preparing your aircraft for sale, conduct frequent aircraft and engine maintenance to ensure pristine functioning of significant mechanical and technical aspects of the plane. Additionally, examine and verify that interior parts are in great condition or replace as needed. Examples include installing new seals around fuel caps or mending upholstery.

Furthermore, both line maintenance checks and A, B, and C checks are essential for top performance and safety. Although these maintenance checks should be regularly completed, it’s also a mandatory step when selling your aircraft. Therefore, ensure the airworthiness of your aircraft as a whole and each mechanical instrument to guarantee a trustworthy sale.

#3. Cleaning & Detailing

With paperwork and maintenance well underway, the next step in selling your aircraft is to aesthetically prepare it for the market. First and foremost, complete a thorough inspection of your aircraft’s interior to remove all personal items or additional installations (not original to the aircraft and do not impact it’s safety or operation) that you do not intend to sell. Then, clean and detail the aircraft’s interior and exterior to highlight its pristine condition, allowing buyers to effortlessly envision this aircraft as their own.

To effectively clean your aircraft exterior, begin with a thorough wet wash to remove external debris. Then, to give a spot-free finish, protect the exterior paint with a wax application. Next, buff and polish the exterior to help seal the paint and reduce parasitic drag.

During this process, it is crucial to follow the following six aircraft detailing rules:

• Never use any type of power washer on an aircraft.
• Never use any household products, only specialty products.
• Be extremely careful with power buffers and avoid automotive orbital buffers.
• Always use the gentlest compound required to remove stains and oxidation.
• Take your time.
• Be sure to check the rules at your airport before you begin washing.

Upon cleaning the interior, be sure to pay special attention to thoroughly revitalizing and sanitizing high-touch areas in the aircraft cabin, including seats, windows, aisles, seat buckles, and the lavatory. Additionally, vacuum and dry-clean carpeting and upholstery, complete any stain removal where applicable, and condition any leather upholstery to have the cabin looking brand new. Finish it off with wood and trim polish, and your bird will be ready for its next owner!

Sell Your Aircraft with J.A. Air

Parting ways with your aircraft can be a challenging process with many steps, but we help make the process easy! At J.A. Air, we strive to provide you with incredible services and expertise to aid in your selling process.

From aircraft detailing services to aircraft maintenance to aircraft acquisition services, we get your plane sale-ready. You can enjoy the excitement of your next plane or jet without the hassle or stress it may involve getting there, thanks to our knowledgeable, licensed, and factory-trained team. Contact us today for inspection needs, repairs, maintenance, brokerage options, and detailing services. We are excited to assist with your new ventures, whether you’re looking to buy a new make or model or simply acquire a new transportation method.

The current aircraft market leaves buyers with countless used aircraft to select from. Each make and model brings different performance specifications, characteristics, and prices. Buying a plane can mean the difference between a long-term transportation mode and an expensive dust collector. Don’t navigate the aircraft acquisition process alone and undirected! Here’s our guide on how to buy a plane and how aircraft acquisition services can help.

How to Buy a Plane: Our 6-Step Guide

Step 1: Designate Your Budget

Whether you’re pursuing new or used aircraft, the price range is drastic. For example, a new general aviation jet costs upwards of $1 million, but some used single-engine propeller planes can go for under $40,000.

Whether you are looking for a Cessna Citation CJ2, Embraer Phenom 300, single-engine, or twin-engine propellor aircraft, you’ll need to craft a realistic budget for the aircraft make and model you want and your financial situation. From there, you can begin narrowing your options.

Step 2: Start Your Searches

Although you have a general direction regarding the make, model, or aircraft type you intend to buy, the next step is to find what is actually on the market and available for purchase.

Recommended avenues to search include:

• J.A. Flight
• AVBuyer
• GlobalAir.com

Unless you plan to buy a plane with cash, ask your financing and insurance companies for any restrictions pertaining to which types of aircraft you can buy. This might impact your search.

Step 3: Apply for a Loan (If Not Paying in Cash)

The next step is to apply for a loan with a trusted and approved lender for buyers who cannot buy a plane with cash. To help prove to the lender your intent to buy an airplane and promptly, it’s highly recommended to have a pre-approval letter. Also, compare lenders to see which offers the best financing in correlation to your credit rating.

According to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, some lenders specialize in aircraft loans. Many of these lenders are members of the National Aircraft Finance Association. For single-engine planes, aircraft lenders will require at least a 15% down payment on aircraft built after 1960 and 20% for aircraft built before. Additionally, loan terms range from 5 to 20 years, with 20 years only available on loans of $75,000 and above, at rates between 4.38% and 7%.

Step 4: Take Test Flights

So long as you have the proper licensure to operate an aircraft, take a test flight with any aircraft you are sincerely interested in buying! Although this step seems obvious, some buyers might feel confident taking the seller’s verbal confirmation that everything works just fine. However, like test driving a car or looking at a home for sale, you want your own experience to help decide if you should buy or keep looking.

Step 5: Complete Pre-Purchase Inspection

Before buying any aircraft, it is important to know as much about the make, model, and condition as possible. To best gauge the aircraft’s value for purchase, request a comprehensive or straightforward pre-purchase inspection.

The money spent on a pre-purchase inspection can be well worth the price compared to the size of your investment and the potential for loss. Although sellers may be wary of a pre-buy inspection, buyers should undoubtedly insist on one to avoid unexpected expenses later.

With the full reports, the buyer then has the liberty to decide whether to require the current owners and make any repairs before taking the aircraft’s final delivery. Remember, after the close of a transaction, buyers are unlikely to convince previous owners to pay for repairs.

Step 6: Prepare Your Offer

After finding your plane, clearing your finances with your lender (or checkbook), and thoroughly inspecting the aircraft, you’re at the final step: putting in your offer! Remember, before offering anything to the seller, verify the plane’s value with an unbiased, third-party who can accurately gauge if the asking price is fair.

Buy a Plane with Aircraft Acquisition Services at J.A. Air

With the countless aircraft models and options, it can be easy to feel intimidated by such a big decision quickly. That’s why at J.A. Air, we strive to be your aircraft acquisition experts!

When looking through the numerous aircraft for sale in the marketplace, wouldn’t it be nice to know the cost to install the latest and greatest avionics equipment, or what ADSB equipment is most compatible with the aircraft you’re looking at? What about what it would take to replace the carpet and do sidewalls? How do you know if the wing bolts really need replacing? From single-engine piston aircraft to small jets, the value of having an experienced and qualified staff is important. With J.A. Air, we become your partner in the process.

Our team is knowledgeable, licensed, and factory-trained. Contact us today for any of your aircraft acquisition and inspection needs, questions, or if you are looking to have a new avionics system installed. We are excited to work with you and get your plane ready to fly the skies in no time!