How to Be Cargo Pilot - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 30, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Cargo pilots are an essential part of the supply chain, playing an important role in transporting goods across the globe. They are responsible for the safe and timely delivery of cargo, often working long hours and facing challenging weather conditions. As a result, successful cargo pilots require a high level of skill, experience, and knowledge in order to make accurate decisions that ensure the safe delivery of cargo.

This includes having an up-to-date knowledge about aircraft systems, aviation regulations, navigation techniques, and safety protocols. In addition, cargo pilots must be able to manage their stress levels in order to make the most effective decisions under pressure. These requirements make cargo pilots highly sought after, with those who successfully qualify for the role expected to be rewarded with competitive salaries and attractive job benefits.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. All aspiring pilots must have a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Most airlines require pilots to possess a bachelor's degree in aviation, aeronautics, or a related field.
Become a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). In order to become a cargo pilot, you must first become a certified flight instructor. To do this, you must pass an FAA written exam and obtain at least 250 hours of flight experience.
Obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. Once you have your CFI, you must obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. This requires passing a written exam, as well as obtaining at least 1,500 hours of flight experience.
Pass the FAA Physical Exam. All pilots must pass an FAA physical exam to receive their license. The physical includes vision and hearing tests, as well as other medical tests.
Obtain Cargo Pilot Certification. To become a cargo pilot, you must obtain cargo pilot certification from the FAA. This requires passing a written exam and obtaining at least 500 hours of flight time in cargo aircraft.
Obtain Employment. Once you have all the necessary certifications, you can begin applying for cargo pilot positions with airlines or cargo-only companies.

The effective and safe operation of a cargo pilot requires a significant amount of training and experience. In order to stay up-to-date and capable, a cargo pilot must continually refresh their knowledge and stay current with the latest industry regulations, technology advancements, and safety protocols. This training can be done through refresher courses, online classes, simulator training, or by reading industry publications.

a cargo pilot must maintain their physical and mental fitness as fatigue can be a major contributing factor to aviation accidents. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest are essential for a cargo pilot to be prepared for their flight duties. Staying informed and active is critical to ensure the safety of the airplane, its cargo, and the passengers.

You may want to check Glider Pilot, Charter Pilot, and Flight Engineer Pilot for alternative.

Job Description

Operate aircraft to transport cargo.
Perform pre-flight inspections and safety checks of aircraft.
Load and unload cargo on and off the aircraft.
Monitor weather conditions to ensure safe flight plans.
Complete all necessary paperwork related to the cargo being transported.
File flight plans with air traffic control and adjust plans due to changing weather conditions.
Monitor fuel levels, engine temperature, and other aircraft systems during flight.
Adjust speed, altitude, and direction of aircraft during flight in order to reach destination on time.
Maintain communication with air traffic control and other pilots in order to relay information about flight plans and aircraft status.
Perform emergency procedures as necessary.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Comprehensive knowledge of aviation regulations and safety procedures.
Ability to read, understand, and interpret flight maps and navigational charts.
Proficiency in operating aircraft systems, including engines, navigation, communications, and autopilot.
Proficient in preflight planning and aircraft loading.
Ability to perform emergency procedures and maneuvers.
Highly skilled in communication with air traffic controllers and other pilots.
Ability to work collaboratively in high-pressure, safety-sensitive situations.
Adept at multitasking while ensuring accuracy in all tasks performed.
Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Physical fitness to handle the pressures of flying at high altitudes.

A successful cargo pilot must have a myriad of skills in order to safely transport goods and passengers. One of the most important skills for a cargo pilot is the ability to think critically and make quick decisions. This is important as it allows them to make the best decisions in critical situations, as well as being able to identify potential problems and create solutions before they arise.

The cargo pilot must also have excellent communication and people skills since they will be dealing with a variety of individuals from different backgrounds. They must also have an in-depth understanding of aviation regulations, aircraft systems, and flight operations. Finally, a cargo pilot must have a strong sense of safety and be able to stay calm under pressure.

Having these skills is crucial for any cargo pilot and is essential to ensure the safety of their passengers and cargo.

Recreational Pilot, Corporate Pilot, and Commercial Pilot are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a cargo pilot?
How do you ensure safety when transporting cargo?
What challenges have you faced while flying cargo planes?
What type of cargo have you transported?
What is the most challenging flight you have completed as a cargo pilot?
How do you handle adverse weather conditions when transporting cargo?
Describe your approach to customer service when handling cargo.
What qualifications do you have as a cargo pilot?
How do you stay up to date on regulations and industry best practices?
What strategies do you use to remain focused and alert during long flights?

Common Tools in Industry

Weight and Balance Calculator. A tool used to calculate the weight and balance of an aircraft before takeoff. (eg: Cessna 172)
Flight Planning Software. Software used to plan a flight including fuel calculations, route analysis, weather, and other factors. (eg: ForeFlight)
Flight Simulators. A computer program that replicates an aircraft's cockpit and its environment. (eg: X-Plane 11)
Aviation Chart Plotter. Software used to plot a course on a chart or map. (eg: Garmin Pilot)
Weather Radar. A device used to detect precipitation in the atmosphere. (eg: Garmin GDL-69A XM WX Satellite Weather Receiver)
Airport Directory. A listing of all airports, runways, and other information related to aviation. (eg: Jeppesen Airway Manual)
Navigation Log. A log used to record the progress of a flight, including time, position, altitude and other details. (eg: NavLog from PilotEdge)
Flight Data Recorder. A device that records data from an aircraft's instruments, such as airspeed, altitude and heading. (eg: L3 Communications Flight Data Recorder)
Aircraft Maintenance Logs. Logs used to track the maintenance history of an aircraft. (eg: CAMP System from Flightdocs)
Radio Communication Devices. Devices used to communicate with air traffic controllers, such as a transponder or radio. (eg: Garmin GTR 225B Com Radio)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
Regional Airline Association (RAA)
International Federation of Air Line Pilots Association (IFALPA)
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA)
Flight Safety Foundation (FSF)
National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)

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Common Important Terms

Air Traffic Control. The process of managing the movement of aircraft in the sky and on the ground.
Aircraft. A vehicle that is capable of sustained flight through the atmosphere.
Aviation. The science and practice of flying aircraft.
Flight Plan. A detailed plan of a flight route and altitude, typically provided to air traffic control services.
Flight Deck. The area of an aircraft from which the pilot and other crew members operate the aircraft.
Navigation. The process of planning a route and maneuvering an aircraft from one point to another.
Preflight Check. A set of procedures performed prior to flight to ensure the aircraft is safe for operation.
Radio Communications. The use of radios to communicate between aircraft, air traffic control, and other services.
Runway. An area of an airport designed for takeoff and landing of aircraft.
Weight and Balance. A calculation of the weight and center of gravity of an aircraft to ensure it is safe for operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of aircraft do Cargo Pilots fly?

Cargo Pilots typically fly large commercial cargo planes such as the Boeing 747-400 Freighter, Boeing 767 Freighter, Airbus A300-600F, and McDonnell Douglas MD-11F.

What qualifications are needed to become a Cargo Pilot?

To become a Cargo Pilot, you must have a valid air transport pilot license, a valid medical certificate, and a minimum of 1,500 hours of logged flight time.

How much does a Cargo Pilot typically make per year?

A Cargo Pilot typically makes between $50,000 and $150,000 a year depending on experience, type of aircraft flown and the specific job.

What safety regulations must a Cargo Pilot follow?

Cargo Pilots must adhere to strict safety regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). These regulations include pre-flight inspections, the proper loading and unloading of cargo, and maintaining aircraft records.

What is the job outlook for Cargo Pilots?

The job outlook for Cargo Pilots is positive with a projected growth rate of 4% over the next 10 years. The demand for Cargo Pilots is expected to increase as the need for more efficient cargo transportation increases.