What does the job market look like for helicopter pilots?
Good. Industry sources report that demand for experienced pilots exceeds supply. Downsizing of the military, an aging corps of Vietnam era pilots, increased demand for air ambulance, electronic news gathering, oil exploration and development and other niches, all contribute to a less-than-gloomy outlook for those wishing to fly helicopters for a living. On the other hand, traditional entry-level jobs have been and remain flight instruction and ride-hopping. Competition is tight–the jobs are out there, but a new helicopter pilot should mentally prepare himself for the unfortunate reality that everyone wants you to have experience, but no one wants to give you the experience. We at Valley Helicopter Services dont have all the answers, but we do recognize that as hiring minimums come down, the industry will become more and more demanding of the quality of training new hires have received, and well do our part.
