How would you describe yourself? Are you a natural leader or do you prefer to follow orders?
If you want to fly planes, you’ll need to pass a test called the FAA Private Pilot License Exam. This exam consists of four parts: written, oral, flight simulator, and ground school.
The written part tests knowledge of aeronautical terms, aircraft systems, weather conditions, and other topics.
The oral section requires you to answer questions about regulations, emergency procedures, and other aviation issues. The flight simulator portion allows you to practice flying skills in a virtual environment.
Finally, the ground school component teaches you about safety rules, navigation, meteorology, and other important aspects of flying.
The FAA is responsible for issuing private pilot licenses. However, each state has its own licensing requirements. In some states, you must be at least 16 years old to take the exam; others require that you have a certain amount of experience before taking it.
You may also need to get special training if you’re planning on becoming a commercial pilot, and you will need to obtain a commercial pilot license for this.
What Is A Bush Pilot?
A bush pilot is someone who flies small airplanes over remote areas. These pilots are often hired by oil companies to transport supplies from one drilling site to another. They can also carry passengers between isolated communities.
Bush pilots usually work as independent contractors. That means they don’t work for an airline or any other company.
Instead, they hire their own clients. Many bush pilots start out working for larger airlines like Southwest Airlines. But after gaining enough experience, they decide to strike out on their own.
What Are The Different Types Of Jobs Available As A Bush Pilot?
Bush pilots can work as independent contractors. Or they can work for a larger company or organization.
Independent Contractors
As an independent contractor, you’ll work directly for your customers. You won’t be employed by anyone else. Instead, you’ll set your own hours and schedule.
This type of job doesn’t require any special skills. So you should be able to start working right away. But you might want to consider getting some extra training before jumping into this career.
Larger Company
If you’d rather work for a company instead of doing freelance jobs, you could try becoming a crew member. Crew members usually fly one route per day. They must undergo extensive training before they’re allowed to take off solo.
Types Of Aircraft Used By Bush Pilots
Bush pilots use several different types of aircraft. Most commonly, they fly Cessna 172s. Other popular models include Piper PA-28 Cherokees, Beechcraft Bonanzas, and King Airs.
Cessna 172s are light single-engine aircraft with retractable landing gear (see also “How To Land Cessna 172“). They’re easy to operate and maintain. And because they’re so versatile, they can be used for both business and pleasure flights.
Piper PA-28 Cherokees are similar to Cessnas but slightly smaller. They’re also easier to handle than Cessnas. They’re ideal for beginners because they’re relatively inexpensive.
Beechcraft BonanzAS are high-performance twin-engine turboprop aircraft. They’re more expensive than Cessnas, but they offer better fuel efficiency.
King Airs are large twin-engine turboprops. They’re very comfortable and spacious. They’re also great for carrying cargo.
How Do I Get Started As A Bush Pilot?
To become a bush pilot, you’ll first need to earn your private pilot license. There are two ways to obtain this license. You can either attend a flight school or complete online courses.
If you choose to go through a flight school, you’ll learn how to fly in a classroom setting. This will give you hands-on experience while learning the basics of flying. It’s not necessary to attend a flight school to become a bush pilot.
However, most people find it helpful to gain additional training before starting their own business. You will also need a certain number of flight hours before you are able to qualify.
If you prefer to do things online, you can enroll in an FAA-approved course. Some schools offer only online classes. Others allow students to combine online lessons with ground school.
When you finish your training, you’ll receive your private pilot certificate. After that, you’ll need to pass a medical exam. Each state requires that you meet specific health standards before being allowed to fly. Once you’ve passed the test, you’ll be able to apply for a license.
How Much Do Bush Pilots Earn?
The average bush pilot salary ranges between $31,000-$40,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on location.
For instance, the average salary in Alaska is $35,000. In New York, it’s $37,000.
In addition to salary, bush pilots earn benefits including insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.
Bush pilots must pay for their own flight training. You won’t be reimbursed for any expenses incurred during your training.
Seasoned pilots can earn more money than newbies, and tend to command higher salaries while working for airlines.
Cost Of Training
The cost of bush pilot training varies depending on where you live. For example, the average price in Texas is $2,000. In Alaska, the price is about $6,500.
You may qualify for financial aid if you have low income or limited resources. Contact your local air traffic control tower for details.
What Are The Duties Of A Bush Pilot?
A bush pilot flies small airplanes such as Cessnas, Pipers, Beechcrafts, and King Airs over remote areas. He or she often works alone. The job involves long hours of hard physical labor.
A bush pilot must know how to navigate using maps, compasses, and GPS devices. He or she should also be familiar with weather conditions and airport procedures.
A bush pilot usually carries supplies like food, water, and first aid kits. He or she might also carry the tools and equipment needed to fix mechanical problems.
Bush pilots work in all types of weather. They often fly at night when visibility is poor. Because there aren’t many airports near wilderness areas, bush pilots must be prepared to land wherever they happen to be.
Bush pilots often travel by foot or horseback into remote locations. If something goes wrong, he or she needs to make repairs quickly.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Bush Pilot?
Becoming a bush pilot takes anywhere from 6 months to several years. Most people spend 2-3 years preparing for the job, and it largely depends on whether you want to start out flying helicopters or fixed-wing planes.
Helicopter pilots typically take longer than plane pilots because they need more training.
Most bush pilots begin working after completing college. Many people who decide to become bush pilots don’t plan ahead. Instead, they just jump right in.
This means that they may not get paid for some time, but the experience that you will gain in the meantime is invaluable; remember that every trip you take up will make you a better pilot once you have your wings.
Final Thoughts
Pursuing a career as a bush pilot will come with some challenges, but if you are willing to work hard, put in the effort, and obtain the necessary qualifications, you could unlock the door to an incredible career in aviation – and once you are licensed, the sky really is the limit!
I decided to create this source of knowledge from my own experiences, in the hopes of helping budding pilots to get through their training.
So, if you’re thinking about becoming a pilot or are in the middle of your training, I hope that this website and my knowledge comes of some benefit to you. I’d love to think that my website made your experience a little less stressful and a lot more fun!
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