There are many basic differences between corporate aviation and the airlines. One of the big differences is the schedule. The corporate schedule is much more chaotic than the airlines. You fly when and where they need you and it could be different every week. As a corporate pilot you may also be responsible for other things besides flying, such as loading the plane and making your own flight plans. As an airline pilot you have a schedule that is a little more consistent. You also will not have to worry about loading the aircraft or making a flight schedule, all you need to do is show up and fly. Another difference is that in the corporate world you have much more interaction with who you are flying, whereas in the airlines the extent of interaction my be smiling at the people as they board the aircraft.
I believe that corporate aviation can save a company money. Although owning a plane can be expensive so can the cost of airline travel. Not only are you paying for the cost of travel but you also paying for the time. Paying someone for travel time can be expensive, the time it takes for them to get to the airport, check their bags, go through security, and hope there are no delays along with having to work with the schedule of the airlines and pay for hotels. Not only does having an aviation department save time, it also gives an advantage over companies that don't have one. It allows companies to fly to places with smaller airports and can greatly improve communication.
One corporate company I found was Starbase Jet, based in Dallas, Texas for a Falcon 50. The position is for a captain and chief pilot. The requirements for the job are FAA ATP or CAMEL with instrument rating, applicable type rating, current 1st class medical, 5000 hours total time, 1500 hours multi-engine, 1000 hours turbojet, 250 hours in specific type, minimum 3 years 135 passenger experience within the last 5 years strongly preferred, and clean FAA/DOT/DOJ records. Overall requirements for majority of corporate jobs are more than required for a start in the regionals. Corporate aviation is a good option for people that meet the requirements and don't mind the unique experience it brings.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/businessaviation/2012/08/06/business-aviation-the-unfair-advantage/
http://www.aopa.org/letsgoflying/dream/whyfly/careers.html
The chief pilot job sounds very interesting. It looks like based on the number of hours needed it is a job that comes later in a pilot's career. It sound like a great job in that you are probably able to set your own schedule and have a more predictable schedule.
ReplyDeleteHaving your own aircraft at your business can save you lots of time and money. Think about booking a ticket last minute on an airline to a small airport. Tickets can cost hundreds to thousands depending on the time you travel.
ReplyDeleteI agree that even know it is very expensive to own an aircraft, not only would you have to pay for a plane ticket you are also paying for that lost time an employee could be working.
ReplyDeleteHidden costs are the biggest reasons for corporate air travel. To quote an old phrase "time is money". I like the fact that we both looked up the same article and agreed with it's contents.
ReplyDeleteSeems like they have some fairly specific requirements. I wonder if this company, and others who have an aviation department, tend to hire from within the company in regards to Captains and chief pilots.
ReplyDeleteInteresting - this chief pilot job is requiring 5000 hours. I just read another listing for a corporate chief pilot that was requiring 10000 hours - another example of how corporate companies can vary greatly.
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