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A Note from the Author (click to expand):
Alright, let’s set the scene. I graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2009, all bright-eyed and ready to soar into the skies. Except... my first aviation job wasn’t in the cockpit. No, my first gig was as an Assistant Director of Flight Training at a 121/135/91 operation in Michigan. Yep, that’s right—I was stuck behind a desk, managing schedules, keeping records, and learning more about regulations than I ever thought possible. Dangerous goods recognition? Check. Crew resource management? Check. Emergency drills on multiple aircraft? You bet! But flying? Not so much.
Let me tell you, I whined about it every single day. I was basically the aviation equivalent of a kid stuck in the backseat of a road trip, asking, "Are we there yet?" every five minutes.
While juggling all that paperwork, I was also working on my Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) training. Spoiler alert: I didn’t finish it. Why? Because, well, I ran out of money. I couldn’t afford to pay for more flight hours, and my dreams of being a flying instructor were grounded, literally. But, here’s the twist—being immersed in the aviation community from a management perspective helped me discover other ways to build flight hours.
So, buckle up! Below, I’m sharing 5 unique ways for low-time pilots to build flight hours—starting with my personal story of how I got into flying for hire. And no, I didn’t finish my CFI, but I sure did find other ways to get airborne!
Building flight time is a crucial part of any pilot's journey, but it doesn’t always require logging hours in a traditional flight school setting. There are a variety of unconventional opportunities that not only help you rack up valuable hours but also immerse you in diverse aspects of aviation. From aerial surveys to glider towing, here's a roundup of unique ways to gain flight experience.
1. Aerial Survey Pilot
Aerial surveys involve flying over vast areas to gather data for mapping, environmental studies, and infrastructure assessments. This type of flying often requires cross-country travel, offering a chance to explore new areas while gaining valuable flight time.
Sample Companies Hiring:
Barr Air Patrol (Mesquite, TX): Specializes in pipeline patrol and aerial survey operations.
Optic Air: Aerial survey company operating throughout the U.S. and Canada, hiring commercially-rated pilots for their fleet.
Advanced / Multi-Engine Operations:
There are MANY more Aerial Survey companies nation wide. All you have to do is dig a little, have a flexible schedule, and get ready for some serious sight seeing!
2. Traffic Watch Pilot
As a traffic watch pilot, you’ll fly over metropolitan areas during peak traffic hours, providing real-time updates for radio and news stations. It’s a dynamic role that helps you improve your flying skills while offering valuable information to the public.
Sample Companies Hiring:
Metro Networks: Works with pilots for aerial traffic reporting.
iHeartMedia: Operates a fleet for aerial traffic reporting.
3. Pipeline and Powerline Patrol Pilot
Monitoring pipelines and powerlines is a critical role in ensuring infrastructure integrity. Flying low over vast stretches of land, you’ll inspect and monitor these essential structures, gaining valuable hours while contributing to safety and maintenance.
Sample Companies Hiring:
Southern Company: Uses pilots for aerial patrol of powerlines.
Duke Energy: Employs pilots for infrastructure inspection.
(I definitely know companies based at KMAF and KODO in West Texas are always looking for good Pipeline Pilots! If you find yourself out that way, look for me! I currently travel there weekly for oil work!)
4. Aerial Tour Pilot:
If you love interacting with people and showing them the world from above, becoming an aerial tour pilot could be the perfect fit. Conduct sightseeing flights over scenic areas, giving tourists and locals a new perspective on the landscape.
Sample Companies Hiring:
Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines (Arizona): Offers scenic tours over the Grand Canyon.
Seaplane Adventures (San Francisco): Conducts scenic flights over the Bay Area with fixed-wing seaplanes.
5. Glider Tow Pilot:
If you’re passionate about working in scenic locations and enjoy the challenge of towing gliders, this could be the perfect entry-level job for you. It involves assisting in launching gliders by towing them to altitude.
Sample Companies Hiring:
Soaring Society of America: Lists various glider clubs seeking tow pilots.
Arizona Soaring: Provides glider operations and pilot opportunities.
6. Banner Towing Pilot
Banner towing is an exciting and challenging job where you fly an aircraft while towing advertising banners over events or populated areas. It requires precision and control, especially when navigating tight spaces and crowded skies.
Sample Companies Hiring:
Aerial Banners, Inc.: Operates along the East Coast, offering aerial advertising services.
If you live near a major city or water front, check out this banner training company to get you started.
7. Ferry Pilot for Maintenance Facilities
To break into this type of role, a more proactive approach is needed—often, you’ll need to walk directly into local maintenance shops and inquire about ferry pilot opportunities.
The advantages of this role are numerous. It offers the chance to gain diverse flying experience in a range of aircraft, improve your understanding of ferrying regulations, and familiarize yourself with various avionics systems. Additionally, you’ll get to know the quirks and nuances of individual planes, which builds your skill set. Perhaps most importantly, you’ll meet potential clients who may hire you for future contract work, expanding your network and career opportunities.
8. Safety Pilot
This is another creative way to build flight time, and it can be a highly rewarding opportunity. Many small aircraft owners and operators hire safety pilots to fly with them, especially if they are new private pilots, have recently purchased a plane, or simply want to build confidence. In these cases, the safety pilot provides valuable experience and reassurance during flights, allowing the pilot to enjoy the journey and learn from a more seasoned aviator—without the pressure of a formal Certified Flight Instructor (CFI).
To get started in this role, the approach is simple: increase visibility at the local Fixed-Base Operator (FBO), visit hangars, and network with small aircraft owners. Offering services as a safety pilot in these environments can create opportunities to assist others while gaining valuable flight hours.
Conclusion:
The aviation industry is brimming with diverse opportunities beyond the traditional flight school route. Whether you're interested in aerial surveying, traffic reporting, or glider towing, there are multiple paths to gaining flight hours while gaining unique experiences. As a pilot, staying open-minded and creative can lead you to unexpected and rewarding opportunities.
Aspiring pilots, think outside the box, pursue your passions, and be open to unconventional career paths in aviation. Your next big opportunity could be just a flight away.
Pro Pilot Tips for Your First Flying Gig:
Be Flexible with Your Schedule: Much of aviation work happens on weekends and holidays, so expect a non-traditional work schedule.
Be Willing to Relocate: Unique jobs, especially higher-paying ones, might require relocation. Don’t be afraid to take a leap; it could land you an even more exciting role.
Respect Everyone: Aviation is a small industry, and your reputation follows you. Always stay humble, professional, and respectful.
Know When to Say No: Your certificate and life are irreplaceable. If a situation feels unsafe, trust your instincts.
Pay It Forward: Remember, no one succeeds alone. Support others, just as someone once helped you.
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