Expert: David A. NewMyer - 12/29/2011

Question
Hi,
I am studying physics and maths at A-level and would like to become a pilot in the RAF. I was curious to know whether there any any other options for me, incase I don't get my A-level grades needed by the RAF (2 a-levels grade A-C required) or that I can't get into the RAF overall. I was wondering if there was any careers that would involve me still flying but perhaps not needing high grades or any grades at all?

Thank you
Eloise

Answer
Eloise:

It is nice to hear from you.  I will try to assist.

First of all, aviation is a career field that, in part, relies on a good knowledge of both math and physics, as well as other sciences (meteorology, for example) and communications (both written and oral).....and, it is good to know a lot about geography as well.

Second, flying careers are available in both military and civil sectors.  In the civil sector, the most common flying career is flying for the airlines.  In the case of the United Kingdom, that would be flying for an airline such as British Airways.  You can explore their "Future Pilot Programme" (currently closed for applications, but, you can at least see the website to understand the requirements at www.bafuturepilot.com/the-programme/ ).  Note that BA works with three different training centers. You might contact them to find out more details.

Keep in mind that the advantage of going into military flight school is that the training is free--in fact, you are paid to be trained as a pilot.  In the civil world, you are paying for much of the early training--it is only when you get into the BA system that BA pays for anything.  So, financial support is key to going the civil route to learn to fly and to build your flight experience.

In addition to flying for the airlines, it is also possible to have a civil flying career outside of the airlines--flying for flight training companies, charter companies, for corporate flight departments (companies that own their own aircraft) or flying for specialized flying organizations such as for medical/relief/emergency evaculation types of organizations that work in Africa and other parts of the world.  Many times, those organizations hire ex-military pilots because of the types of aircraft they operate and where they fly.  But, they also might hire some non-military pilots as well.

The key to flying careers on the civil side is a single-minded dedication to learn to fly and then to pursue a career.  If you love to fly, in the end, there is usually a way to work it out.

All best wishes to you,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
http://www.aviation.siu.edu