Careers in flight are some of the many unexpected math careers out there, particularly airline pilot careers. To learn how math careers can also be flight careers, find out how pilot-in-training Kyle Spiritus uses math.

How do you need math to fly?

“It’s hard to fly when you can’t figure out how much fuel you’ll need.”

- Kyle Spiritus, Pensacola, FL
Naval Flight Student, Marine Corps

What is an airline pilot?
Where would you go if you could take off at a moment’s notice? The whole world is just a flight away for pilots and their passengers! Airline pilots are responsible for flying people from city to city safely and on time. They work for companies like American, Delta and United Airlines. Of course, they don’t just fly. They know exactly how their big planes work so they can be sure the flight will go smoothly before they take off. There’s a big world waiting for pilots.

How much education do you need?
Most pilot careers require an associate’s degree, vocational training or on-the-job training.

Does this career fit your personality type?
This career is great for realistic, investigative and enterprising types.

SKILLS YOU NEED

Brain Power Pilots have to think clearly under pressure. While flying they’re constantly monitoring systems and ensuring passenger safety. Teamwork Commercial planes are huge, so good pilots need good piloting teams to keep everything under control and flying smooth. Time Mastery You’re on the clock! Pilots have to handle fast flight turnaround times and get passengers to their destinations right on schedule. Math Do you know how to use navigational tools and aeronautical charts. Aero what? Pilots know because they developed great math skills! Science From flight lessons to plane weights to weather, pilots have to master various sciences and technologies to do their job well. Writing Good writing skills are essential to documenting flight information and communicating well with copilots and peers.

Instructions

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