Fly with Eva: How to prepare for an airline pilot interview in a (post) COVID reality

Dear grounded pilot, by visiting the Airside platform, you came to the right place. Wether you are a cadet pilot, fresh out of flight school, or an experienced pilot who lost it’s wings temporarily; we all want to get back in to the sky.

Before diving right into ‘what you now should and should not do’, first some thoughts and words of encouragement. These are tough and unprecedented times. One of the most stressful things for humans, is to be jobless, and facing the uncertainty this brings. But keep your mental health in check by seeing things in perspective. Know that this is not forever.

Do not put pressure on yourself with thoughts like ‘What if I never make it back into the flight deck?’ Because you will make it back into the flight deck! You did not lose your job because of anything you are to blame for: this was outside your control. And now perseverance comes into play. It is only a matter of time, estimated at a few years maximum, before the world heals and the travel industry picks up. In time the doors of the airlines will be wide open again, because all those flights need pilots. But also know, there are opportunities here and there. You better be ready as you can be to get back on board. Check the tips below: what to do, and what not to do.

✔️ DO’S

1. Do network and engage in the aviation community. Reach out to your contacts in the aviation industry. Let them know you are looking for a job. Use networking websites such as LinkedIn, Facebook groups, visit career days, and get to know the Airside community.

2. Do spend time working on your CV. Use for example the Airside Resume builder. Remember less is more: try to fit your CV on one page only, and always have someone proofread your CV to check for possible mistakes.

❌ DONT’S

1. Don’t let your skills and knowledge get rusty. Make sure your ATPL knowledge stays sharp, as every pilot assessment addresses some ATPL theory. Make your own summaries and consider investing in a book on technical interviews. Don’t lose currency and find a way to get regular simulator practice.

2. Don’t focus on one particular job or type. Now it’s time to think outside the box. Be open minded and consider all kind of jobs, such as corporate and cargo flying, or (temporarily) instructing in a simulator.

I hope these tips are helpful to guide you in the right direction, I wish you the best of luck.