Expert: David A. NewMyer - 3/17/2009

Question
Sir,  My sixteen year old son, wishes to persue a career as a commercial pilot. I dont know what advise to offer and which qualifications he ought to obtain since he sitting for his O levels in a few weeks.  He intends to further his studies and obtain  A level certificates but during which time he wishes to be guided as to what subjects he should persue most as not to go out of this line.

Answer
Hi,

Thank you for your question, I will try to assist!

First of all, aviation is a field of study that requires one to be a good problem solver, to think quickly and to be able to apply good math, science (especially physics and weather/meteorology) and communications skills well.

So, second, I would recommend that he focus study on these subjects:

Math
Written and Oral Communications (in English, which is the international language of aviation and air traffic control)
Technical Physics
Weather/meteorology
Geography/maps


I hope that this helps.

Best wishes to both you and your son,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
USA