Pilot Interview Questions

Airline or aircraft pilots fly passengers and/or cargo on long or short-haul flights for leisure, business or commercial purposes. The aircraft is typically operated by two pilots; one will be the captain who is the pilot in command, while the other will be the supporting first officer.

The pilots will usually take turns to fly the plane to avoid fatigue, with one operating the controls while the other speaks to air traffic control and completes the paperwork. In some instances, such as long-haul flights, there may be three or four pilots on board so that the necessary breaks from flying can be taken.

The captain has the overall responsibility for the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft and the safety of crew and passengers. Prior to the flight, pilots check flight plans, ensure that the aircraft’s controls are operating efficiently and calculate the required fuel for the flight. They are also responsible for checking the weather conditions and briefing cabin crew.

Whether you're a job seeker preparing to be interviewed for the role of Pilot or an employer preparing to interview candidates for Pilot position, these Pilot interview questions will help you prepare yourself for the job interview session.

Pilot Interview Questions

Below are a list of some skill-based Pilot interview questions.

1. What was the most difficult decision you made as a Pilot?
2. Explain the terms V1 and V2 in the context of airplane flying?
3. Why is it important for Pilot's to be proficient in more than one language?
4. Why do aircraft maintain Ballast Fuel?
5. What qualities make a good Pilot?
6. What is GRID MORA?
7. What would be a pilot’s role during an emergency?
8. Name the several determinants of V1 speed?
9. When did you become interested in aviation, and what led you to this career?
10. In your opinion, what are the qualities of a professional airline pilot?
11. What is the effect of Aft Cg on performance?
12. What is the most common reason for fuel exhaustion accidents?
13. Describe a time when you felt pressure when flying an aircraft. How did you handle the situation?
14. Since the time you began flying until now, have you had any flight violations, warnings, citations, accidents, or incidents that are not reflected in your logbook or FAA record?
15. How would you define your leadership style as a captain of a flight crew?
16. What is the role of Empennage in an aircraft?
17. What is Mach Tuck?
18. What would you do if the pilot in command insisted on conducting a fight illegally?
19. Imagine that the weather got bad suddenly, and you saw a storm forming in front of you. What would you do?
20. What is a Stopway?

Pilot Interview Questions and Answers

Every interview is different and the questions may vary. However, there are lots of general questions that get asked at every interview.

Below are some common questions you'd expect during Pilot interviews. Click on each question to see how to answer them.

1. What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment?
2. What is Your Salary Expectation?
3. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?
4. Why Do You Want To Leave Your Current Job?
5. Why Should We Hire You?
6. Are You a Leader or a Follower?
7. Tell Me About Yourself
8. What is Your Greatest Strength?
9. What is Your Greatest Weakness?
10. Why Do You Want This Job?