BBK717

Hi,

I'm currently 16 years old and living in the UK. Im facing a few decisions about my future at the moment. I personally love aviation and flying. I spot, as well as play multiple flight simulators. However, I'm hesitant on becoming a pilot. I've been reading online that for earlier age pilots pay is bad as is compensation.
I'm currently applying for scholarships to multiple US universities (inc. ivy league) But if i were to become a pilot would that help. Or is it best to skip out university?
I just wanted to get some advice from seasoned commercial pilots. Is it an enjoyable rewarding career, or is what the internet says true?

Thanks

rickair7777

Good that you're thinking about it, but at your age no need to rush into any decisions. Well actually if you're interested in working in Europe, you may need to start apply to some airlines in High School.

Not the same as the real thing. I would take some actual flying lessons, and if possible earn a private pilot license before deciding on a career.

Depending on where you start working pay can be very low at first. But it often gets very high at the end.

In the US, you need a degree for sure to progress beyond the entry-level. Overseas, maybe not. Some countries tend to use vocational-track pilot training and don't require a college degree.

Both. The career can go either way based on timing, personal choices, and plain old luck. The good news is that the next 15 years should see massive hiring in the US and Asia, which should also create more opportunity everywhere else.


If you're planning on flying outside the US, might want to checkout "pprune.org" This site is mostly North American pilots.

sourdough44

If you 'love aviation' and think you would like piloting for pay, my advice is to explore options. You should have some local, lower cost options to get your feet wet. Look to a flying club of some sort, maybe try to take a 'ground school' course.