Expert: David A. NewMyer - 9/25/2008

Question
Dear Mr NewMyer,

I have qualified recently as a pilot.  However, I am struggling with my CV.  Can you tell me what you see are the key skills in being a pilot?  Also, have you any tips with what an aviation employer is looking for in the covering letter and the CV itself?  I am passionate about flying and I know a good CV can help get me started.

Thanks & regards

Yvonne

Answer
Hi, Yvonne:

I can not really answer too much of this question until I know more about what your specific qualifications are for a pilot position in the aviation industry.  But, in general, employers are looking for three things:

Certifications and Ratings:  What specific ratings and certificates that you hold from the Federal Aviation Administration.  This  tells the employer a lot about what level you are at and what basic minimum flying for which the FAA has certificated you.

Flight hours (or flight experience):  The total number of Pilot in Command flight hours will tell an employer how much you have flown when you are in charge of the aircraft.  In addition, there will be an interest in your PIC night hours, PIC instrument hours and PIC multi Engine flight hours....as well as PIC turbine (or jet) flight hours.  All of this information tells the employer key information about the quality of of your flight experience.

Edcuation:  A minimum of a baccalaureate degree (preferably, but, not required to be, in aviation)....this tells the employer about your ability and willingness to learn and if any of your education applies to the aviation field.

So, a CV or resume that provides the above information will be one that an employer will take seriously, especially if you have some key entries in each area.

Please follow up with another question if you need more information.

Best wishes,

David A. NewMyer