Flight engineers may become copilots within 2 to 7 years and captains within 5 to 15 years. Some pilots become check pilots, chief pilots, or self-employed. A few pilots transfer to managerial jobs. Experienced pilots move up the seniority list and become eligible to bid for larger aircraft, more desirable schedules, routes, or their own home base. Promotional opportunities for Agricultural Pilots include advancing to managerial positions or purchasing their own aircraft to become independent contractors or pest control operators.
Most pilots find employment by contacting employers directly.
More entry opportunities for airline pilots will be with the regional airlines. Pilot unions also list employment opportunities. Photogrammetry Pilots should look in the yellow pages under Aerial Photography. The California Agricultural Aircraft Association aids Agricultural Pilots in finding employment. The Helicopter Association International provides employment services for Helicopter Pilots.