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Pilot CV examples

Your pilot CV should highlight your flight hours, certifications, and expertise in aviation safety, showcasing your ability to operate aircraft efficiently and ensure passenger and crew security.

   

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CV news features

As a pilot, you ensure every flight’s passenger reaches their destination safely.

You’re looking for a new role, so you can soar to new career heights… but first you need a CV that gets your job search off the ground.

This guide, complete with 3 winning Pilot CV examples, will help you highlight your certifications and proven ability to handle high-pressure situations, so you can take the cockpit seat you’ve been aiming for.

Pilot CV example

Pilot CV
Pilot CV Pilot CV

Commercial Pilot CV example

Commercial Pilot CV
Commercial Pilot CV Commercial Pilot CV

Helicopter Pilot CV example

Helicopter Pilot CV
Helicopter Pilot CV Helicopter Pilot CV

How to write your Pilot CV

Learn how to create your own interview-winning Pilot CV with this simple step-by-step guide.

A Pilot CV is all about writing your flight experience, technical expertise, and ability to stay calm under pressure. It’s your chance to demonstrate why airlines and aviation firms should trust you to take their passengers to new heights. 

Following these steps will ensure a CV which highlights your training, certifications, and skills, ensuring it passes every recruitment checklist.

Pilot CV structure

CV structure
CV structure

Think of your CV as a pre-flight checklist – everything needs to be organised and in the right place to impress the recruiter at first glance. Recruiters look through countless applications a day, so make your own easy to navigate.

Here’s how to structure your Pilot CV:

  • Name and contact details – Clearly display your personal details at the top so employers can easily get in touch. Including a professional photo can add a polished touch, though it’s totally optional.
  • Profile – Start with a snapshot of your flying experience, certifications, and approach to passenger safety.
  • Core skills – In bullet point form, convey your expertise in areas like navigation, communication, and emergency procedures.
  • Work experience – Run through your professional history in reverse chronological order, focusing on your roles and flight hours.
  • Education – Share your aviation-related degrees, licenses, and training courses.
  • Additional info – Optionally, include hobbies and interests, such as volunteering or mentoring, that reflect your dedication to aviation.

Pilot CV format

CV format
CV format

Your CV should be as sleek and professional as a modern aircraft. A clear, well-organised CV format ensures recruiters can quickly assess your qualifications and experience. Simple visual mistakes will distract from your genuine expertise.

Here’s how to format your Pilot CV effectively:

  • Bullet points – Present your responsibilities and achievements in short, scannable lines that are easy to digest.
  • Divide sections – Use bold headings and consistent formatting to make your CV’s layout nice and easy for recruiters to navigate.
  • Use a clean font – Choose a professional font that ensures readability while conveying a sense of authority.
  • Keep it the right length – Stick to 2 pages. This is plenty of space to include your flight experience without padding it out with unnecessary fluff.

Pilot CV profile

CV profile
CV profile

Your CV profile is your chance to provide a clear snapshot of why you’re the ideal candidate. You need to convince airline recruiters that hiring you will benefit them – so show what you bring to the table.

Pilot CV profile examples

Experienced Commercial Pilot with over eight years of experience flying domestic and international routes for major airlines. Proficient in operating Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft, with 5,000+ flight hours logged. Skilled in navigation, safety procedures, and ensuring exceptional passenger experiences.

Dedicated First Officer with three years of experience in regional aviation, specialising in cargo transport and short-haul passenger flights. Skilled in flight planning, pre-flight inspections, and managing in-flight emergencies. Logged 1,500+ flight hours on ATR and Embraer aircraft.

Proficient Senior Pilot with 12 years of experience in long-haul commercial aviation, including team leadership roles. Skilled in mentoring junior pilots, optimising fuel efficiency, and managing cross-continental operations. Logged 8,000+ flight hours across multiple aircraft types, including Boeing 787 and Airbus A350.

What to include in your Pilot CV profile

Here are some tips on what to put in your Pilot professional profile:

  • Where you’ve worked – Note the types of airlines, private charters, or aviation organisations you’ve flown for.
  • Your top qualifications – List licenses like the ATPL or CPL and any relevant certifications.
  • Key aviation skills – Outline the key, tangible skills like cockpit resource management, route planning, and aircraft systems knowledge.
  • Aircraft you’ve flown – Specify whether you’ve piloted commercial jets, private planes, or helicopters.
  • Flight hours – Provide your total flight hours and breakdowns by type of aircraft or role.

Core skills section

CV skills
CV skills

Your core skills section is like the control panel of your CV – it shows recruiters you’ve got the expertise to handle any situation at 30,000 feet. Tailor this section to the specific role you’re applying for, such as focusing on long-haul expertise or regional aviation knowledge.

Top skills for your Pilot CV

  • Cockpit Resource Management – Coordinating effectively with co-pilots, crew, and ground staff to ensure smooth operations.
  • Navigation Expertise – Using advanced GPS and traditional navigation techniques to chart and adjust flight paths.
  • Emergency Procedures – Remaining calm and decisive in high-pressure scenarios to ensure passenger and crew safety.
  • Weather Analysis – Interpreting meteorological data to anticipate and adjust for flight conditions.
  • Aircraft Systems Knowledge – Proficient in operating and troubleshooting complex avionics and mechanical systems.
  • Flight Planning – Preparing detailed flight plans, including fuel calculations and regulatory compliance checks.
  • Regulatory Knowledge – Staying updated on international aviation laws and safety standards.
  • Long-Haul Operations – Managing extended flights with precision and stamina, ensuring optimal performance.
  • Customer Relations – Communicating with passengers and addressing concerns to maintain a positive flying experience.
  • Type Rating Certifications – Demonstrating expertise in specific aircraft models, such as Boeing 737 or Airbus A320.

Work experience

CV work experience
CV work experience

Your work experience section is where you show how your flight history makes you the ideal candidate. Focus on highlighting your flight hours, types of aircraft flown, and notable achievements in your aviation career.

Even if your logbook doesn’t rival a captain’s, every hour counts. Whether it’s simulator time or short-haul runs, include the experiences that show your journey has already taken off.

How to structure jobs

job example
  • Outline – Briefly describe the airline or aviation organisation, your role, and the types of flights you managed.
  • Responsibilities – Highlight key tasks, such as navigating routes, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, or managing in-flight situations.
  • Achievements – Include measurable outcomes, like completing X hours of safe flight time or reducing delays on your routes.

Example jobs for Pilot

Operated commercial passenger flights for a leading airline, focusing on safety, efficiency, and passenger satisfaction. Conducted flights across domestic and international routes with high reliability.

  • Performed pre-flight checks to ensure aircraft safety and readiness.
  • Collaborated with co-pilots and air traffic control to execute efficient flight plans.
  • Monitored and managed in-flight systems to ensure smooth operations.
  • Communicated with passengers and crew to provide updates and ensure comfort.
  • Ensured strict adherence to aviation regulations and company policies.
  • Achieved a 99.8 percent on-time performance rate over 300+ flights.
  • Optimised fuel usage, reducing operating costs by 12 percent on key routes.
  • Recognised by passengers and crew for maintaining calm professionalism during emergencies.

Assisted in the operation of cargo aircraft for a regional logistics company, ensuring timely and secure transport of goods. Focused on adhering to safety protocols and maintaining communication with ground teams.

  • Supported the captain in flight planning, weather analysis, and navigation.
  • Conducted pre-flight and post-flight inspections to ensure aircraft safety.
  • Monitored flight systems and communicated with air traffic control.
  • Managed loading and unloading of cargo, ensuring weight and balance compliance.
  • Responded to in-flight technical issues with quick problem-solving and teamwork.
  • Maintained a 100 percent delivery success rate for time-critical shipments.
  • Logged over 1,500 hours of flight time without incidents or safety breaches.
  • Implemented new loading procedures that improved efficiency by 20 percent.

Led long-haul international flights for a global airline, managing complex operations and mentoring junior pilots. Focused on safety, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence.

  • Developed flight plans for long-haul routes, optimising fuel efficiency and safety.
  • Supervised and trained first officers, ensuring high operational standards.
  • Communicated with international air traffic control to navigate diverse airspaces.
  • Managed in-flight emergencies and implemented contingency plans as required.
  • Reviewed and updated operational procedures to align with aviation best practices.
  • Reduced fuel consumption by 15 percent through optimised flight routes and altitudes.
  • Mentored 10+ first officers, five of whom advanced to captain roles.
  • Awarded Pilot of the Year for exceptional service and leadership on international routes.

Education section

CV education
CV education

The education section is crucial for pilots as it demonstrates your foundational training and certifications.

Include qualifications like an aviation degree, ATPL, or CPL licenses. If you’re newer to the field, mention flight school programs, simulator training, or additional workshops that highlight your potential.

Always list your qualifications in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.

Best qualifications for Pilots

  • Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) – A comprehensive license required for operating as a commercial airline captain.
  • Commercial Pilot License (CPL) – Allows you to work as a professional pilot for hire.
  • Instrument Rating (IR) – Certifies proficiency in navigating aircraft in low-visibility conditions.
  • Type Rating Certifications – Verifies expertise in specific aircraft models, such as Boeing or Airbus.
  • Crew Resource Management (CRM) Certification – Focuses on teamwork and communication in cockpit operations.