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Is it possible to Jon Shadow a airline pilot?
I have a assignment for my class to Jon shadow a career I plan on pursuing and I want to be a pilot my nearest airport is the Detroit metro airport. Any help appreciated! #aviation #airline-industry #pilot
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4 answers
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Greg’s Answer
It most likely won’t be something that is possible. I would suggest you go to a smaller airport and talk to some pilots there. You could go to Pontiac or Willow Run or even a smaller airport. Find a corporate hanger and start talking to some people.
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Jason’s Answer
With current FAA, TSA and security regulations I highly doubt anyone would be able to actually shadow an airline pilot on the flight deck of a commercial airline. The best alternative I can suggest to someone is to go to your local municipal airport and find a company that offers flight instructions. Most of them offer "introductory" flights which last about 30-60 min for about $100.00 or a little more. You would be able to sit up front in typically a Cessna 152 with a certified flight instructor and take the controls and fly for a bit. CFI's (certified flight instructors) are very knowledgeable and can tell you all the certifications and steps on how to become an airline pilot. I know a Cessna 152 is not as fun as a jet but, it will give a good idea on what the job entails.
Jerome Cannon
Certificated Flight Instructor, Retired High School Social Studies teacher
6
Answers
Pfafftown, North Carolina
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Jerome’s Answer
I will add to the answers that have been given. One possibility would be to visit the FBO of a local airport and see if you are able to interview a Corporate or Charter Pilot.
Another suggestion would be to contact a local Flight School and see if they have contact with any local Commercial Pilots.
I would agree that if you are interested in aviation as a career to find a local Flight School and take a Discovery Flight. There are also summer camps available through some Flight Schools, Civil Air Patrol, etc.
You may also look for Community Colleges. Colleges, Universities that have Aviation Courses and schedule a visit. They are in the business of recruiting students and may help you with information.
Another suggestion would be to contact a local Flight School and see if they have contact with any local Commercial Pilots.
I would agree that if you are interested in aviation as a career to find a local Flight School and take a Discovery Flight. There are also summer camps available through some Flight Schools, Civil Air Patrol, etc.
You may also look for Community Colleges. Colleges, Universities that have Aviation Courses and schedule a visit. They are in the business of recruiting students and may help you with information.
Updated
Jordan J’s Answer
Hi Dylan, unfortunately with all this regulation it isn't really possible to shadow an actual commercial airline pilot. What you can do is do some research and networking to actually get an interview with an actual pilot. I know there's a lot of pilots on YouTube and other social media sites that will gladly help answer any questions you have. Another great option you can try is go to your local flight school and there are usually retired airline pilots there that will gladly give you insight into all your questions. Of course, it always helps to get some actual experience being in an airplane too. So in short, try out your local flight school and talk to some people there, and if you really want to get into it, ask for an introductory flight. Good luck Dylan, hope this helps.