Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers

SOC Code: 53-2011

Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineerss use instrumentation to guide flights when visibility is poor. This career typically requires considerable preparation (2-4 years). With an AI-proof score of 66.4/100, this role has moderate resilience to automation. Key skills include Operation and Control, Operation and Control, Operations Monitoring.

AI-Proof Score: 66.4 — High
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Median Salary

$226,600

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Job Growth

3.9%

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Training Time

Considerable preparation (2-4 years)

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Job Zone

Zone 4 / 5

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Training Cost

~$40,000

Key Skills

  • •Operation and Control
  • •Operations Monitoring
  • •Judgment and Decision Making
  • •Monitoring
  • •Active Listening
  • •Critical Thinking
  • •Active Learning

Common Tasks

  • ✓Use instrumentation to guide flights when visibility is poor.
  • ✓Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight, adhering to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.
  • ✓Work as part of a flight team with other crew members, especially during takeoffs and landings.
  • ✓Respond to and report in-flight emergencies and malfunctions.
  • ✓Inspect aircraft for defects and malfunctions, according to pre-flight checklists.

Why AI-Proof?

  • ✅Requires hands-on physical presence and dexterity
  • ✅Demands human empathy, judgment, and trust
  • ✅Operates in unpredictable, variable environments
  • ✅Social and regulatory barriers to full automation