Today we discuss the workforce projections for 2026 from an aviation training perspective with CEO of Spartan College Of Aeronautics and Technology, Rob Polston.
We have seen an increase in pilots sharing their end of year paystubs online. Let me tell you why I think this is a bad idea with both good and bad intentions.
Should you become a pilot in 2026? Today we dive deeper into the hiring outlook for 2026 and beyond. If you want monthly updates and access to the pilot interview course and mentorship community visit https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching
Aviation Careers Podcast is sponsored by Stratus Financial – Where Dreams Take Flight. Stratus Financial offers loans for pilot training, and they understand your needs because they are pilots! You can find more at https://stratus.finance/
Whether financing your dream of flying or simplifying the process by taking care of your student loans, their efficient, hassle-free funding can connect you to the life of your dreams of becoming a professional pilot sooner than you ever thought possible! To find out more, click here: https://stratus.finance
As a sponsor of this podcast, Stratus Financial is giving away scholarship guides, and you can get yours for free using the coupon code “Stratus” when you visit https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/free/
I am currently touring flight schools with the intent of becoming an airline pilot. I came across your podcast on YouTube. I listened to a great episode on the benefits of becoming an airline pilot in 2025. Thanks for sharing such valuable information.
I’m reaching out with question/s regarding flight schools. Like many, the expense is really the only thing giving me pause. I am 38 years old and own my own business so time is something I have the luxury of creating. I have no doubt that this requires 100% commitment and this would be much more than a hobby. My plan is to turn flying into a second career. Hopefully through a pathway program to a legacy airline.
My question is, what are your thoughts on the Zero To Airline accelerated programs? Do you believe these programs set you up to not only be the best pilot but for future opportunities with legacy airlines?
Aviation Careers Podcast is sponsored by Stratus Financial – Where Dreams Take Flight. Stratus Financial offers loans for pilot training, and they understand your needs because they are pilots! You can find more at https://stratus.finance/
Whether financing your dream of flying or simplifying the process by taking care of your student loans, their efficient, hassle-free funding can connect you to the life of your dreams of becoming a professional pilot sooner than you ever thought possible! To find out more, click here: https://stratus.finance
As a sponsor of this podcast, Stratus Financial is giving away scholarship guides, and you can get yours for free using the coupon code “Stratus” when you visit https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/free/
Take one step today to enhance your career goal with the gift card you received this holiday! Welcome to our annual recommendation on how to spend your Gift Card and Enhance your career!
Questions, comments, or inspirational stories; please write to us at feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com.
Stick and Rudder: An Explanation of the Art of Flying
This timeless book is essential for those who want to master the basics of flying and truly master the art of flying.
The Aviation Weather Handbook FAA-H-8083-28A consolidates the weather information from the following advisory circulars (AC) into one source document. By doing this, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) intends to streamline access to the FAA’s weather documentation for users of the National Airspace System (NAS). The following AC’s are now canceled:
AC 00-6, Aviation Weather
AC 00-24, Thunderstorms
AC 00-30, Clear Air Turbulence Avoidance
AC 00-45, Aviation Weather Services
AC 00-54, Pilot Windshear Guide
AC 00-57, Hazardous Mountain Winds
Instrument Procedures Handbook
Your knowledge of instrument procedures is paramount when you are a professional pilot. This book is filled with potential interview questions and will be a great resource throughout your career. https://amzn.to/45w9v1o
Everything Explained For The Professional Pilot 15th Edition
This is the ultimate reference for the professional pilot. The explanations are clear, illustrations helpful, and the historical context priceless. Whether getting ready for an interview or wanting to master advanced flight this book is a must for your bookshelf.
A must-have For those pilots beginning training at the airlines or simply wanting to expand their knowledge. https://amzn.to/49kwBdJ
Airplane Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-3C: Pilot Flight Training Study Guide (Color Print)
The FAA reference you will use for your entire aviation career from flying small planes to transitioning to multi-engine jets. https://amzn.to/3KP5uhK
Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
Many technical interview questions are derived from the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge and you will use this knowledge throughout your entire career flying. https://amzn.to/4skvzWK
FAR-FC 2026: Federal Aviation Regulations for Flight Crew
The definitive reference for professional pilots flying for 121 and 135 operators.
FAR/AIM 2026: Federal Aviation Regulations/Aeronautical Information Manual
For the remainder of your career, you will be tested on your knowledge of the FARs and the information provided in the Aeronautical Information Manual. This is a manual you will want to highlight and tab pertinent pages.
Recently hired or simply wondering if you can pass IOE at an airline? Today joining me is Derek Lagasse, a former check chairman with a regional carrier and now 737 first officer at a major airline. We’ll discuss how to successfully pass your Initial Operating Experience (IOE).
Introduction
What is IOE?
What is different and how does that affect you?
The Gate Environment
Realism
There is no pause button and the conditions are not pre planned
Fatigue
Common Weak Points (And how to fix them)
Organization
Preparation
Situational Awareness (Staying Ahead of the airplane)
What if things go wrong?
Remain Calm… Anxiety will degrade performance
Own up to your shortcomings
Communicate if you are having trouble with something
Keep A positive attitude (Ego is the Enemy)
Summary of advise
Learning is additive
Control what you can control, be agile for the rest
Set your expectations accordingly – Perfectionism is the enemy
KEEP A POSITIVE ATTITUDE
Have you ever looked skyward at the floating bubble of peaceful artwork and wondered what it would be like to be a balloon pilot? Well today we have with us Craig Elliott, author of The Balloonatics – Memoir of a Professional Hot Air Balloon Pilot.
Talking Points:
How Craig got involved in ballooning in 1976
How Craig happened to become a full time Professional Hot Air Balloon Pilot
What are the various roles and jobs a Full time Professional Hot Air Balloon Pilot preforms
Noteworthy flights and events in Craig’s career
How can someone get involved in Hot Air Ballooning https://www.bfa.net/
Why he wrote the book
Cover artwork on the book
Website to find out more: https://www.theballoonatics.com
Are you dreaming of landing your ideal pilot job in 2026, but feel overwhelmed by the competition and changing hiring landscape? We’re breaking down exactly what it takes to stand out, offering insider insights and a clear roadmap to secure those highly sought-after positions. Don’t let your dream remain a dream.
The 2026 Pilot Landscape: What’s Changing?
Key Skills & Qualifications for 2026
Navigating the Application & Interview Process
Strategic Pathways to Your Dream Job
Landing the Offer: Salary, Benefits, and Beyond
What to do next
Take a step towards your career goal.
There are many ways you can pay for your flight training, but what is best for you? In today’s episode, we will dive into the many methods of funding your flight training with a few hacks you may never have thought of.
Federal student loans
Normally associated with colleges and universities.
You will have to apply for Federal student aid through financial aid. https://studentaid.gov
High school and college counselors can help.
Government sponsored
Most schools will list them on their website.
529 savings plans
Since this is new, contact your tax advisor first and coordinate with the flight school.
Thanks to the National Flight Training Alliance for their advocacy.
Sport Pilot Certificate
Sport Pilot Flight instructor.
Great for those not able to get a medical right away but know they will be eligible, career 2.0 who are older, want to use flight instruction to pay for their flight training, and want higher ratings.
Find the path and loan that is best for you.
We can help through our one-on-one and group mentorship. Stay motivated throughout mentorship.
Ever wonder what it really takes to land that dream airline pilot job? It’s far more than just flying skills. Join me as I pull back the curtain on the grueling, often frustrating, yet ultimately rewarding journey of the airline interview – a test of dedication and resilience that few truly understand.
