Aviation Industry Skills Board (AISB) Pilot Career Taster

Overview Ever wondered what happens behind the cockpit door, or how a Pilot makes hundreds of decisions before an aircraft even leaves the gate? In this Career Simulation you’ll step into the world of commercial aviation and discover how the UK’s airlines train and rely on highly skilled Pilots. From reading the weather and managing fuel to leading a crew and communicating with air traffic control, you’ll see why flying is about far more than just operating an aircraft. Whether you’re drawn to the technical challenge or the responsibility of keeping people safe, find out how becoming a Pilot could open the door to a global career. What’s Included This Career Simulation won’t just be us explaining what Pilots do: you’ll get stuck in by completing quizzes and interactive activities to test your own skills and decision-making. This experience will show you how a flight comes together, from pre-flight planning to a safe landing, and what it feels like to be responsible for an aircraft and everyone on board. At the end, you’ll be supplied with a certificate to add to your CV, proving you’re ready to take your first steps towards a career on the flight deck. Module Overviews Career Overview – Discover what commercial Pilots actually do, from short-haul hops to long-haul routes, and how they keep passengers and cargo moving safely around the world. Qualification & Skill Requirements – Learn about the training pathways, licences, and personal qualities, such as focus and composure, that lead to a career as a Pilot. Daily Activities – See how Pilots combine flight planning, checklists, communication and split-second decision-making across a typical working day. Career Progression – Explore the routes Pilots can take, from First Officer to Captain, as well as training and management positions within an airline. Salary & Benefits – Understand the earning potential, travel perks, and wider benefits that come with a career on the flight deck. Challenges & Rewards – Discover the demands of irregular hours and high responsibility alongside the rewards of a varied, skilled and respected career. Meet the Expert – Hear from Anthony Rollo at Jet2 about life as a Pilot and what it takes to succeed on the flight deck. Your Activity – Step into the role of a Pilot and use careful planning and decision-making to handle a realistic flight scenario. Model Answer – Compare your approach with a worked example that shows how experienced Pilots assess information and justify their decisions. Reflection – Reflect on what you’ve learned, identify what appeals to you most, and consider your next steps towards a career as a Pilot.