Pilot Internships in the USA for International Students

Innovative Flight Training and Internship Programs Pave the Way for Aspiring Pilots to Secure Airline Jobs

(by Russ Sherwood; June 15, 2016; Ormond Beach, FL) 

In the dynamic world of aviation, the journey to becoming a professional pilot is fraught with challenges. Some of the flight training agencies, such as Aerocadet, are rewriting this narrative by introducing transformative programs that empower aspiring pilots to excel and stand out in the competitive airline job market.

Why post-training pilot internships are so important?

One of the pivotal aspects of a comprehensive professional pilot training program is the inclusion of a pilot internship opportunity post-flight training. This is because airlines typically won't hire newly-graduated pilots with only 200 hours of flight time, even if they possess a commercial pilot license and the necessary ratings. This hurdle poses a significant obstacle to the career progression of new pilots.

To overcome this hurdle, Aerocadet offers an 18-month professional flight instructor internship, allowing pilots to elevate their flight hours from 200 to 1500. During this period, they accumulate invaluable flight experience on both single and multi-engine aircraft, acquire their initial professional pilot work experience, and secure excellent references from their employer. In addition, pilots can recover a substantial portion of their tuition fees through a $30-$50per-flight-hour salary, with the potential to fly up to 80 hours per month.

Upon completion of the initial flight instructor internship, students are provided with an advanced internship opportunity as international ferry pilots with Global Air BVI Inc. In this role, pilots operate light and medium piston and turboprop aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) under 5700kg. Their missions involve transporting aircraft from dealers in the United States to buyers in various countries across Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa. This internship enables pilots to accrue valuable international cross-country flight time, familiarize themselves with different aircraft types, experience flying in international airspace over the Atlantic Ocean, and further enhance their aeronautical expertise. This international ferry pilot internship is also a paid opportunity, with pilots receiving a salary ranging from $350 to $600 per flight day during their journeys. Furthermore, participants receive free initial training from AeroCadet's experienced ferry pilots.

How can a foreign student work as a pilot in the United States?

Many International applicants are asking me this question: how can I work in the US if I am a foreigner. Well, working as a pilot in the United States requires a special work permit, and such work permit is possible to obtain if you are a flight student studying on an F-1 visa.

F-1 visa holders who have completed a minimum 6-month academic study program in the United States, possess over 1500 flight hours, and an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) upon program completion, are eligible to apply for a 12-month internship with an airline or charter company in the U.S. It's important to note that students who have already used their Optional Practical Training (OPT) for time-building programs like flight instructor internships may not extend their OPT for airline employment. (Please note: Aerocadet offers the FPAP-US program on the F-1 visa with a furnished work permit)

Are there any ways that a foreign pilot can work in the US permanently?

That is also a common question. And the answer is: Yes. Well, sort of. It all depends on you. But here is a short run-down of the permanent employment visa options that you can apply for in order to work permanently in the US:

Exceptional Pilots on the EB-1 Visa

Pilots with extraordinary abilities in the field can seek permanent residency in the United States through the EB-1 visa category. Exceptional achievements and references from aviation professionals play a crucial role in securing this visa. (Read a full article about this visa, and how a regular guy can qualify for it, here >>> )

Experienced Pilots on the EB-2 NIW Visa

The EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) visa program is tailored for experienced foreign airline pilots looking to settle in the USA. Successful candidates and their families are granted unconditional Green Cards in just 12 to 16 months.

Sponsored Pilots on H1B Visa

While none of the U.S. airlines sponsor pilots for the H1B visa, certain universities may do so, provided the candidate has studied and worked as an intern in the field of aviation at the university. An advanced degree from the university is often a prerequisite for securing H1B visa sponsorship.

Australian Pilots on the E-3 Visa

The E-3 visa is exclusively available to Australian citizens and offers a straightforward and quick path to securing employment as airline pilots in the U.S., with many airlines readily accepting pilots under this program.

AeroCadet's forward-thinking programs are shaping the future of aviation education and offering aspiring pilots unique opportunities to not only meet but surpass industry expectations. With robust training, real-world experience, and comprehensive visa guidance, AeroCadet is leading the way for aviation enthusiasts to realize their dreams and thrive in the competitive aviation job market.

Ready for takeoff? Great - start by enrolling via Aerocadet website following this link >>>