Although it’s true that movies such as Top Gun: Maverick have romanticized aviation careers to some degree, the truth is that jobs in this sector come with many benefits. Not only are these jobs in high demand now, but there will be even greater shortages in the aviation field in the future. There’s never been a more promising time to pursue a career in aviation.

Here are the top reasons to consider an aviation career.

There are many aviation career paths available. All fifth graders understand that pilots fly planes. What they don’t always know is that there are many other available careers to pursue in the field, such as:

• licensed drone operator
• commercial airline pilot
• flight attendant
• aircraft maintenance engineer
• airport operations manage
• avionics technician
• aircraft safety inspection
• aerospace engineer
• …and even more!

Aviation careers can be high paying. Just like other industry, overall pay is dictated by a variety of factors, including education, experience and demand. The aviation industry as a whole boasts several careers where individuals can earn more than $100,000 a year. U.S. News reported the median salary of pilots to be $130,440 in 2020, with many making more than $200,000 per year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of aerospace engineers in 2021 was $122,270 per year.

Work schedules are flexible. A career in aviation often means you have access to a variety of different work schedules, depending on the type of work you choose. Someone in airlines management or operation could work a typical 9 to 5 job, while pilots and flight staff may work only a few days a week, giving them several days of uninterrupted time off each month.

You get to see the world! If you enjoy exploring, adventuring and want to see the world, then the sky is the limit. Major airline employees enjoy flight benefits for themselves as well as for designated travel companions or family members. This includes non-revenue tickets that can be used for air travel when seats are available on a flight. For longer distance destinations, sightseeing is often a possibility where an overnight stay is required.

What are you waiting for? Starting at a young age prepares you to fly high!