How to become a bush pilot?

How to Become a Bush Pilot?

Bush flying is a unique and exciting career that requires a combination of flying skills, knowledge, and adaptability. Bush pilots fly small aircraft to remote areas, often in challenging weather conditions, to deliver goods, supplies, and people to communities that are inaccessible by road. If you’re interested in becoming a bush pilot, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a commercial pilot’s license.
• Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Medical Certificate: You must hold a valid medical certificate issued by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
• Language: You must be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.

Step 2: Get Your Private Pilot’s License

• Find a Flight School: Research and find a flight school that offers private pilot training.
• Flight Training: Complete a minimum of 40 hours of flight training, including:

  • At least 20 hours of flight training with an instructor
  • At least 10 hours of solo flight time
  • At least 5 hours of cross-country flight time

• Pass the FAA Written Exam: Pass the FAA written exam for private pilots.
• Pass the Practical Test: Pass a practical test with an FAA inspector or designated examiner.

Step 3: Get Your Instrument Rating

• Instrument Rating Training: Complete a minimum of 15 hours of instrument training, including:

  • At least 10 hours of instrument training with an instructor
  • At least 5 hours of solo instrument flight time

• Pass the FAA Written Exam: Pass the FAA written exam for instrument ratings.
• Pass the Practical Test: Pass a practical test with an FAA inspector or designated examiner.

Step 4: Get Your Commercial Pilot’s License

• Commercial Pilot Training: Complete a minimum of 250 hours of flight time, including:

  • At least 100 hours of pilot-in-command time
  • At least 50 hours of cross-country flight time
  • At least 10 hours of instrument training

• Pass the FAA Written Exam: Pass the FAA written exam for commercial pilots.
• Pass the Practical Test: Pass a practical test with an FAA inspector or designated examiner.

Step 5: Build Flight Experience

• Flight Experience: Accumulate as much flight experience as possible, including:

  • Flying for a commercial airline or charter company
  • Flying for a flight school or instructor
  • Flying for a bush flying company

• Type Rating: Obtain a type rating for the specific aircraft you want to fly, such as a Cessna 206 or a De Havilland Beaver.

Step 6: Get Your Bush Pilot Certification

• Bush Pilot Certification: Obtain certification from a reputable bush flying organization, such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA).
• Checkride: Pass a checkride with a certified bush pilot examiner.

Step 7: Stay Current and Recurrent

• Medical Certificate: Renew your medical certificate every 6-12 months.
• Flight Reviews: Complete a flight review with a certified flight instructor every 6-12 months.
• Type Rating Recurrent: Complete a type rating recurrent training every 6-12 months.

Additional Tips and Considerations

• Physical Conditioning: Bush flying requires a high level of physical fitness and endurance.
• Mental Preparation: Bush flying can be mentally demanding, requiring a high level of focus and concentration.
• Weather Awareness: Bush pilots must be able to navigate and fly in challenging weather conditions.
• Aircraft Maintenance: Bush pilots must be familiar with the maintenance and repair of their aircraft.
• Communication Skills: Bush pilots must be able to communicate effectively with passengers, ground crew, and other pilots.

Table: Bush Pilot Certification Requirements

Conclusion

Becoming a bush pilot requires a significant amount of training, experience, and dedication. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set yourself on the path to a rewarding and challenging career as a bush pilot. Remember to stay current and recurrent, and always prioritize safety and professionalism. With the right skills and attitude, you can become a successful bush pilot and enjoy the thrill of flying in some of the most remote and beautiful areas of the world.