air tour pilot

Now Hiring Pilots!

Grand Canyon Airlines is believed to be the world's oldest, most experienced air tour company in continous operation since 1927. Proudly owned since 1967 by Elling B. Halvorson and Family. Mr. Halvorson has been credited with truly developing and shaping the Grand Canyon Airplane tours industry.

Join our team of aviators for a career flying the canyon in a de Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter and or the Cessna 208 B Caravan. While a member of our team you will gain valuable multi engine and single engine turbine flight hours.

We are happy to announce our first pilot flow through with our partner Allegiant Air! Pilots now have the ability to progress directly to a major carrier after completing our program. Check out the details in this article from the Las Vegas Review Journal.

Pilot Qualifications

Please pay special attention to the minimum requirements and apply ONLY if you meet these thresholds.

Twin Otter First Officers

• ASEL Commercial
• AMEL Commercial
• Instrument Rating
• 40 hrs night (of which 25 hrs is cross country)
• 2 nd Class Medical Certification (with the ability to obtain a 1 st class)

Twin Otter Captain

• 1 st Class Medical Certification

Caravan Captain

• Minimum 500hrs TT
• 25 hours night cross country

Frequently Asked Questions for gcaops.com

Where is Training - Orientation is done at Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines headquarters located at Boulder City Airport, Boulder City, Nevada.

Ground Training - Ground School is usually conducted at the Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines training facility located at the Boulder City Airport - 1265 Airport Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005 .

Training Timeline

• Ground school - 3 weeks
• Cockpit procedures training and CRM (simulator) - 1 week
• Flight simulator training - 1 week (average)
• Flight training - to proficiency

Training Type - Training will be FAR 135 standards with a strong emphasis on airline procedures, working as a crew (Twin Otter), use of checklists and crew resource management. Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines trains to proficiency.

Base Locations

• Boulder City, NV
• Grand Canyon, AZ (South Rim)

Starting Pay - New pilot recruits are paid on the following schedule: Minimum guarantee (64.6 hours) at the first year hourly rate beginning on your hire date. Pay is based on duty hour time. Captains are paid a generous end of season bonus.

Lodging - Lodging is only provided for those pilots that are based at the South Rim or in Page.

IOE - IOE is typically done in Boulder City, NV, however, pilots not based there could have the opportunity to train at their respective bases depending upon the availability of company resources (aircraft, training/check pilots, etc).

Training Dress Code - Dress code during training will be business casual. (nice slacks, polot shirt, and casual dress shoes). No tennis shoes.

What do I bring to orientation/training

• Valid state issued drivers license
• Birth certificate (for I-9 purposes)
• Current first class medical
• Captains - logbook
• Valid passport
• FCC radio license (if issued)

Our "seasonal" operations takes place between April and October. The majority of our pilots flight time will be accrued during this time period. Pilots can expect long days with a robust schedule and a wide variety of destinations all in a single day.

There are numerous opportunities during the rest of the year to gain flight experience and also to advance within the company. Pilots typically start out as First Officers in the Twin Otter (depending on flight experience) and rapidly move up as a single pilot captain in the Cessna Caravan. As a pilot nears the time needed for an ATP rating, they can be afforded the opportunity to be upgraded to captain in the Twin Otter.

Flow Thru to Major Airline - Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines has a written agreement with Allegiant Airlines. Through our "Captain Development Program" for First Officers, pilots will be able to gain flight time and experience to obtain their ATP rating to be able to flow through to Allegiant.

If you would like to contact us then please feel free to send us an email at: [email protected] .

• Shop Back Issues
• Aircraft For Sale
• Destinations
• Learn To Fly

Flying Brands

• The Ultimate FLYING Giveaway
• I.L.A.F.F.T. Podcast
• Modern Flying
• Helicopters
• The New Owner
• Avionics and Apps
• Instrument/accessories
• Retrofit avionics
• Oem avionics
• Portable/handhelds
• Aviation Gear
• Pilot supplies
• Aviation apps
• Flight School Guide
• Learn to Fly
• NIFA/SAFECON
• What A CFI Wants You To Know
• Flight planning
• I.L.A.F.F.T.

How to Become an Air-Tour Operator

Being an air-tour operator allows pilots to provide breathtaking and even educational views..

Air-tour operators combine flying in a time machine, like St. Augustine Biplane Rides’ 1935 Cabin Waco YOC, with seeing some of the most beautiful sights the country has to offer. Dave Genet

Air-tour operators in the United States conduct sightseeing flights from Bar Harbor, Maine to Maui, and from Key West to northern Alaska. Dave Genet, proprietor of St. Augustine Biplane Rides in St. Augustine, Florida (KSGJ), established his business in 2012 with the goal of using historical aircraft — currently a 1935 Cabin Waco YOC — to offer aerial views of North America’s oldest city. “Not only are you flying in a time machine, but you’re flying over one of the most historic places in the U.S., so it’s a perfect match,” Genet says.

What federal regulations govern air-tour operations?

Commercial air tours using powered aircraft and remaining within 25 statute miles of their home airports operate under Part 91 rules and require an FAA letter of authorization (LOA) approving their operation. Participation in a DOT drug and alcohol test program is a key requirement for approval. “Anybody who touches the airplane with a wrench or flies it has to be on the test program,” Genet says. Where applicable, airspace rules regarding national parklands (e.g., Castillo de San Marcos national monument in downtown St. Augustine) must be observed.

What background does an air-tour pilot need?

No academic training or study program for the air-tour business exists. Pilots of powered aircraft must have a commercial license and be highly experienced with the type of aircraft flown, as well as have excellent people skills. “Half the folks are kind of freaked out” by flying in a small aircraft, Genet notes, and need to feel at ease with the pilot. As for playing tour guide, once customers are airborne, “I try to let them enjoy the experience,” Genet says. “You don’t have to talk the whole time.”

What makes a good base location?

Potential customers and points of interest worth seeing from the air are required. St. Augustine has fewer than 14,000 residents but draws 1 million to 4 million visitors per year by various counts, Genet says. A supportive airport is also important. (An operating agreement and fee payments are required.) The location on the airport must be zoned for commercial operations, and security rules governing customers’ airport access strictly observed.

How do you determine how much to charge?

Operators typically offer a variety of tours, with prices based on flight time. “My average flight is $184 for two people for 22 minutes,” says Genet. “It’s a great price,” he adds. “People pay 90 bucks for a walking tour at night.” The aircraft type and even fuel prices also impact tour costs. If it weren’t for SGJ’s low fuel prices he’d have to raise his rates, Genet says.

How do you market an air-tour business?

“It’s a mix — you can’t have just one” media, Genet says. He advertises in local circulars and entertainment magazines. Postcard-size “rack cards” in hotel kiosks work well, but are expensive. The best exposure is social media, such as positive comments on Facebook and TripAdvisor, though Genet says he never asks customers to post.

More From Careers

Alpa to return $50 million in member dues amid ‘record revenue gains’, a new mission to break down barriers, women's aerospace network accepting award nominations, american scales back pilot hiring plans, is this the end of the pilot shortage, pilot shortage ‘isn’t real,’ alpa says, new to flying, already have an account.

How to Be Air Tour Pilot - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

• How to Become
• Job Descriptions
• Skill & Competencies
• Common Tools
• Professional Organizations

The popularity of air tour pilots has been steadily increasing due to the rise in air tourism. As more tourists look to explore different destinations by air, the need for knowledgeable and experienced air tour pilots has grown. Consequently, more pilots are taking the necessary steps to become certified and join the ranks of those able to provide this service.

The increased demand for air tour pilots has resulted in more flight schools offering specialized courses and certifications to meet the new demand. the salaries for these pilots have risen significantly as employers compete for the best-qualified personnel. All of this combined has made air tour piloting a lucrative and attractive career choice for many aspiring aviation professionals.

Steps How to Become

• Obtain a commercial pilot's license. To become an air tour pilot, you will need to earn a commercial pilot's license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). You must be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of 250 hours of flight experience.
• Earn a medical certificate. You must obtain a medical certificate from the FAA in order to become an air tour pilot. You will need to pass a physical exam and make sure your eyesight meets the FAA's requirements.
• Complete ground school. You will need to complete ground school to learn about air tour regulations and safety protocols. You will also need to pass a written knowledge test in order to become an air tour pilot.
• Obtain an air tour operator certificate. You will need to obtain an air tour operator certificate from the FAA in order to fly passengers for hire. This certificate must be renewed annually and requires the completion of safety inspections and other requirements.
• Get hired by an air tour company. Once you have all of the required certifications and experience, you can apply for jobs with air tour companies. Most companies will require you to have experience flying in the area where you intend to work as well as a minimum number of flight hours.

As an air tour pilot, staying up to date and capable of flying is essential. To ensure that they are knowledgeable and capable, pilots must continually stay informed of new technologies, laws, and regulations related to flying. This requires them to complete ongoing training and certification programs.

they must also keep up with weather patterns and requirements for filing flight plans. By doing so, air tour pilots can remain current on all required knowledge and skills, as well as be confident in their abilities to safely navigate the skies.

You may want to check Aerial Survey Pilot , Charter Pilot , and Air Ambulance Pilot for alternative.

Job Description

• Plan and execute safe air tours for customers.
• Monitor weather conditions to ensure safe flying.
• Pre-flight aircraft inspections to ensure optimal performance.
• Communicate with air traffic control personnel to obtain necessary clearance for routes.
• Ensure proper loading and balance of cargo.
• Maintain detailed aircraft logbooks and records.
• Ensure all passengers are briefed on safety and emergency procedures prior to take-off.
• Supervise ground crew personnel during loading and unloading of passengers and cargo.
• Provide passengers with a smooth and enjoyable flight experience.
• Monitor aircraft performance and make necessary adjustments during flight to ensure safety.
• Perform post-flight inspections and report any necessary maintenance or repairs.
• Document flight details in aircraft logbook after each flight.
• Comply with all applicable regulations, procedures, and standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Skills and Competencies to Have

• Knowledge of relevant aviation regulations and safety procedures.
• Ability to follow instructions of air traffic control (ATC).
• Ability to read navigational charts and maps.
• Experience in aerial navigation, including navigation aids such as GPS, radio navigation, and instrument flying.
• Ability to communicate effectively with passengers and other crew members.
• Knowledge of aircraft systems, performance capabilities, and emergency procedures.
• Ability to assess weather conditions and adjust flight plans accordingly.
• Knowledge of airspace regulations and airways.
• Ability to perform pre-flight inspections and aircraft maintenance.
• Ability to troubleshoot aircraft systems in-flight and on the ground.
• Expertise in operating multiple types of aircraft.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

The most important skill for an air tour pilot is the ability to remain focused and organized in the cockpit. This is essential for a pilot to be able to maintain situational awareness and make accurate decisions in a complex and ever-changing environment. The ability to multi-task and keep track of multiple pieces of information at once is also essential, as it allows the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft while dealing with other variables such as weather, traffic, and communication.

a strong understanding of aircraft systems and procedures is needed to ensure safe operations. Finally, a good working knowledge of air navigation rules and regulations is critical to ensure the safety of the passengers and the general public. With these skills, an air tour pilot can confidently fly passengers on an exciting and safe journey.

Flight Instructor Pilot , Air search and Rescue Pilot , and Drone Pilot are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

• How long have you been an Air Tour Pilot?
• What experience do you have with aircraft maintenance and inspections?
• Describe a situation where you had to manage a difficult customer while in the air.
• What safety procedures do you follow when flying with passengers?
• What is your experience with airspace regulations and restrictions?
• How do you manage communication with air traffic controllers?
• Describe your experience with emergency procedures and how you react in a crisis situation.
• What experience do you have with flight plans and navigation?
• What do you consider to be the most important responsibility of an Air Tour Pilot?
• Do you have any experience with aerial photography or videography?

Common Tools in Industry

• Avionics. a collection of electronic systems and equipment used in aircraft (eg: radar)
• Preflight Planning Software. software used to plan and manage flight plans (eg: ForeFlight)
• Flight Tracking Software. software used to monitor the progress of aircraft in flight (eg: FlightAware)
• Emergency Checklist. a set of procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency (eg: handling engine failure)
• Navigation Systems. systems used to determine the position of an aircraft (eg: GPS)
• Weather Reports. reports used to monitor weather conditions and forecasts (eg: METARs)
• Communication Radios. radios used to communicate between aircraft and air traffic control (eg: VHF/UHF)
• Flight Simulators. software and hardware used to simulate flying conditions (eg: Microsoft Flight Simulator)
• Airspace Maps. maps used to identify airspace boundaries and restrictions (eg: Sectional Charts)
• Air Traffic Control Protocols. protocols used to ensure safe air traffic operations (eg: ATC Clearances)

Professional Organizations to Know

• Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
• International Council of Air Shows (ICAS)
• National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
• Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)
• National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
• National Pilots Association (NPA)
• National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI)
• International Association of Air Tour Operators (IAATO)
• Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF)
• Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC)

We also have Glider Pilot , Firefighting Pilot , and Air Traffic Controller Pilot jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

• Airspace. The area of airspace around an airport or airfield, within which aircraft can operate.
• Aeronautical Charts. Detailed maps of the airspace that include information on airports, routes, and navigational aids.
• Flight Plan. A plan that details an aircraft's route, altitude, speed, and other information.
• Air Traffic Control (ATC). A complex system of communication, navigation, and surveillance used to coordinate and control the movement of aircraft in the airspace.
• Visual Flight Rules (VFR). A set of rules and regulations governing the operation of aircraft under visual meteorological conditions.
• Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). A set of rules governing the operation of aircraft in instrument meteorological conditions.
• Aviation Regulations. A set of regulations and standards that govern the operation of aircraft in a given country or region.
• Weather Forecasting. The process of predicting weather conditions for a given time and place.
• Aircraft Performance. The performance characteristics of a given aircraft, such as takeoff and landing distances, speed, range, and fuel consumption.
• Navigation. The process of determining an aircraft's location and heading in relation to its destination or other points of reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are needed to become an air tour pilot.

To become an Air Tour Pilot, you will need a Commercial Pilot Certificate with a Multi-Engine rating, along with a Flight Instructor Certificate and a minimum of 500 hours of flight time. Additionally, you must have a valid Airman Medical Certificate and complete an FAA approved Air Tour Operations course.

How many passengers can an Air Tour Pilot carry?

An Air Tour Pilot is typically permitted to carry up to six passengers.

What types of aircraft are commonly used for Air Tours?

Common aircraft used for Air Tours include turbo-prop planes, light jets and helicopters.

What is the typical salary range for an Air Tour Pilot?

The salary range for Air Tour Pilots varies depending on the employer, the experience and qualifications of the pilot, and the type of aircraft flown. However, most Air Tour Pilots make between $50,000 and $150,000 per year.

Are there restrictions on the routes that Air Tour Pilots are allowed to fly?

Yes, Air Tour Pilots are restricted to flying within 25 miles of the point of departure, or within 25 miles of any approved alternate airport.

What are jobs related with Air Tour Pilot?

• Helicopter Pilot
• Commercial Pilot
• Flight Attendant Pilot
• Recreational Pilot
• Traffic Reporter Pilot
• Corporate Pilot
• Hot Air Balloon Pilot
• Airline First Officer Pilot
• Airline Pilot

Web Resources

• Becoming an Air Force Pilot: The Necessary Education, … www.spartan.edu
• Aviator College Professional Pilot Program www.aviator.edu
• General Aviation Pilot - Aims Community College www.aims.edu

• Connect with Us
• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on Twitter

Pilot Jobs – Air Taxi / Sightseeing / Charter

Air taxi and charter pilots transport paying passengers from one destination to another on an as-needed basis versus on a schedule. These are usually trips of short duration and the work may be seasonal, such as transporting hunters or anglers to sports lodges. Sightseeing pilots and air tour guides also operate in this way, and in fact, the same pilot may perform all of the above services in order to maximize their income and flight time. An aviation company that offers charters may also offer sightseeing trips to individuals or groups and use the same pilot for both. On occasion, the air tax or charter pilot may also transport cargo, supplies, or foodstuffs to remote locations, bush camps, mining operations, or other locations. Planes used are often single engine or small twin-engine planes. Night operations with passengers cannot be conducted in single-engine aircraft, but cargo can legally be carried under those conditions. Some pilots choose to work for an air taxi, fixed base operator, charter, tour or sightseeing company in order to build up flight time while being paid to do so.

Pilots flying for an air taxi, charter, or similar kind of company may have to work long hours, and on weekends and holidays and for very little pay. When business is slow, the pilot will earn little if any income.

Qualifications

Most employers want candidates to have at least a high school diploma or the equivalent. This is in addition to having a commercial pilot’s license and all the necessary ratings for the type of aircraft to be flown. Good people skills are preferred when working as an air tour or sightseeing guide.

Air taxi, charter, sightseeing, and air tour pilots must have a commercial pilot’s license and any other applicable ratings appropriate to the aircraft he or she will fly. Many low-time pilots are hired to do this work and the minimum flight time required by an employer may be as low as 200 hours.

Most air taxi, charter, sightseeing, and air tour pilots are busiest in the summer months when tourism is busiest. Usually, the pilot doesn’t work nights but he or she may have to work weekends and holidays. The pilot may also be on call and have to fly on a moment’s notice. On some days, the hours may be very long.

Air Taxi Pilot: $8-$18 per hour

$8-$24 per hour ( mitchellairport.com/employment )

NEXT SECTION: Airport Jobs

Air Tour Pilot Career

*A job as an Air Tour Pilot falls under the broader career category of Commercial Pilots. The information on this page will generally apply to all careers in this category but may not specifically apply to this career title. Job Description for Commercial Pilots : Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft on nonscheduled air carrier routes, or helicopters. Requires Commercial Pilot certificate. Includes charter pilots with similar certification, and air ambulance and air tour pilots. Excludes regional, national, and international airline pilots.

Is Commercial Pilot the right career path for you? Take the MyMajors Quiz and find out if it fits one of your top recommended majors!

Commercial Pilot Career

What commercial pilots do:.

• Obtain and review data such as load weights, fuel supplies, weather conditions, and flight schedules to determine flight plans and identify needed changes.
• Check aircraft prior to flights to ensure that the engines, controls, instruments, and other systems are functioning properly.
• Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.
• Start engines, operate controls, and pilot airplanes to transport passengers, mail, or freight according to flight plans, regulations, and procedures.
• Choose routes, altitudes, and speeds that will provide the fastest, safest, and smoothest flights.
• Plan flights according to government and company regulations, using aeronautical charts and navigation instruments.
• Contact control towers for takeoff clearances, arrival instructions, and other information, using radio equipment.
• Consider airport altitudes, outside temperatures, plane weights, and wind speeds and directions to calculate the speed needed to become airborne.
• Check baggage or cargo to ensure that it has been loaded correctly.
• Write specified information in flight records, such as flight times, altitudes flown, and fuel consumption.
• Use instrumentation to pilot aircraft when visibility is poor.
• Request changes in altitudes or routes as circumstances dictate.
• Order changes in fuel supplies, loads, routes, or schedules to ensure safety of flights.
• Co-pilot aircraft or perform captain's duties, as required.
• Supervise other crew members.
• Coordinate flight activities with ground crews and air traffic control, and inform crew members of flight and test procedures.
• File instrument flight plans with air traffic control so that flights can be coordinated with other air traffic.
• Fly with other pilots or pilot-license applicants to evaluate their proficiency.
• Instruct other pilots and student pilots in aircraft operations.
• Teach company regulations and procedures to other pilots.
• Conduct in-flight tests and evaluations at specified altitudes and in all types of weather to determine the receptivity and other characteristics of equipment and systems.
• Plan and formulate flight activities and test schedules and prepare flight evaluation reports.
• Rescue and evacuate injured persons.
• Perform minor aircraft maintenance and repair work, or arrange for major maintenance.
• Check the flight performance of new and experimental planes.
• Pilot airplanes or helicopters over farmlands at low altitudes to dust or spray fields with fertilizers, fungicides, or pesticides.

What work activities are most important?

Holland code chart for an commercial pilot.

• Our History
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Grand Canyon West
• Antelope Canyon/Lake Powell
• Booking & Cancellation
• Privacy Policy
• Contract of Carriage
• VIP Travel Agents

To be a pilot at Grand Canyon Airlines is an exciting and advantageous opportunity. Our pilots enjoy a work-life balance that is unique within the airline industry. Tour scheduling makes it possible to fly a full day and then go home each evening, spend time with family and friends, ​and sleep in familiar surroundings. GCA pilots also have the chance to interact with hundreds of passengers from around the world, most of whom are seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time. Witnessing the reactions of passengers as the canyon comes into view is a reward our pilots consider invaluable. Best of all, because of stunning weather ​patterns ​and flight time variations, the view from the cockpit window changes every day. Take in the most magnificent sights of the Grand Canyon and the surrounding area at sunrise, sunset, or covered in snow. Join us at Grand Canyon Airlines for one-of-a-kind career opportunities.

Ground Staff

Discover your place as a part of our family! It's our goal to make each and every Grand Canyon Airlines employee feel immense pride and appreciation for their hard work. Our staff's tireless contributions are the reason we can proudly call ourselves the world's largest and longest-running air tour company. Browse our employment openings below and find where you belong within our operations.

Job Description

Air Tour Pilot job description

Example air tour pilot requirements on a job description.

• Current FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate
• Current FAA Class II Medical Certificate
• Multi-engine and Instrument Ratings
• Minimum 500 flight hours
• Valid Passport
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong customer service orientation
• Ability to work in fast-paced environment
• Ability to effectively multitask
• Strong problem-solving skills

Air Tour Pilot job description example 1

Netflix air tour pilot job description, air tour pilot job description example 2, guardian flight air tour pilot job description.

• Earning potential $110700 - $121770
• $15K sign on bonus (after successful completion of training/checkride)
• $40K retention bonus (6 month wait period and this is a 3-year program)
• 15 days on/15 days off schedule
• $5K relocation assistance
• Fly on our aircrafts from Anchorage to Deadhorse
• Company paid crewhousing

Resources for employers posting air tour pilot jobs

Air Tour Pilot job description FAQs

What are the most common skills on a job description for an air tour pilot, what does an air tour pilot do.

Updated March 14, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Related Job Descriptions

• Aircraft Pilot Description
• Aviator Description
• Charter Pilot Description
• Check Airman Description
• Chief Pilot Description
• Co Pilot Description
• Helicopter Pilot Description
• Line Pilot Description
• Pilot Description
• Pilot Captain Description
• Pilot Instructor Description
• Test Pilot Description

Air Tour Pilot Related Hirings

• Hiring An Aircraft Pilot
• Hiring An Aviator
• Hiring A Charter Pilot
• Hiring A Check Airman
• Hiring A Chief Pilot
• Hiring A Co Pilot
• Hiring A Helicopter Pilot
• Hiring A Line Pilot
• Hiring A Pilot
• Hiring A Pilot Captain
• Hiring A Pilot Instructor
• Hiring A Test Pilot

Air Tour Pilot Related Jobs

• Air Ambulance Captain
• Aircraft Pilot
• Captain/Check Airman
• Charter Pilot
• Check Airman
• Chief Pilot
• Commercial Pilot
• Corporate Pilot
• EMS Helicopter Pilot
• Fighter Pilot
• Helicopter Pilot

What Similar Roles Do

• Aircraft Pilot Responsibilities
• Chief Pilot Responsibilities
• Commercial Pilot Responsibilities
• Helicopter Pilot Responsibilities
• Pilot Responsibilities
• Pilot Captain Responsibilities
• Pilot Instructor Responsibilities
• Test Pilot Responsibilities
• Zippia Careers
• Transportation Industry
• Air Tour Pilot
• Air Tour Pilot Job Description

Browse transportation jobs

Careers with Westwind

Become a westwind team member, join the mission.

Are you interested in a career with a chance to impact people’s lives by creating infinite memories? If you are passionate about tourism, adventure, Arizona, and aviation, then Westwind Air Service may be the place for you. Westwind is always interested in positive individuals who are driven and passionate about changing people’s lives through our unique opportunity to fly inside of the Grand Canyon. Fill out the required fields below, and in the Interested Department, you can put Pilot, Aircraft Mechanic, Office Staff, or Driver.

Pilot Requirements

Be in the captain seat of Your Career

Westwind Air Service pilots have more flying opportunities than most, allowing them to take full control of their careers. Along with regular tour flights over the Grand Canyon and Lake Powell, Westwind pilots have opportunities to fly charter flights to California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Mexico, as well as fly cargo for UPS out of Sky Harbor airport. Westwind Air Service operates six Cessna 208B Caravans, two T207A Stationairs, and one T206H Stationair. All Westwind flights are VFR single pilot. Along with our flexible schedule and daily pay rate, our fast upgrade time to the Caravan allows pilots to log PIC turbine time generally within their first year of employment.

1. High School diploma, GED, or equivalent

2. FAA single-engine commercial pilot certificate 135.243(b)(1)

3. Instrument rating 135.243(b)(3)

4. 500 total flight hours 135.243(b)(2)

5. 100 cross-country hours (point-to-point) 135.243(b)(2)

6. 25 night hours 135.243(b)(2)

If you meet the above requirements and are interested in flying for Westwind, please click the button below and send us your resume. We look forward to reading it!

BETA Technologies

Beta hits its latest evtol milestone, transitioning mid-air with a pilot onboard [video].

Electric aircraft developer BETA Technologies has shared video footage of its ALIA eVTOL transitioning from vertical takeoff to forward propulsion and back in its latest test video. This is a key milestone as the company seeks certification for the aircraft ahead of several use cases.

BETA Technologies is a fully integrated electric aircraft and systems developer based in Vermont that we’ve been reporting on since 2021 with the debut of its first electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft – the ALIA-250, which has since been renamed the ALIA VTOL.

The ALIA VTOL has since been joined by an electric conventional takeoff and landing (eCTOL) plane called the  ALIA CTOL , which has flown tens of thousands of test miles to date en route to evaluation flights for FAA certification and is targeting full approval for commercial operations by 2025.

US Air Force project AFWERX remains a partner and long-time collaborator with BETA Technologies, helping develop its eVTOL and eCTOL technology. Recent updates have included a lot progress with the ALIA eCTOL, including international flights to Canada and a successful testing deployment with the US Air Force.

Recently, however, BETA has been touting a key milestone in the development of its ALIA eVTOL, transitioning from vertical takeoff to forward flight while in the air.

Watch BETA’s ALIA eVTOL transition mid-flight

We recommend watching the five-minute flight video below, which gives you an idea of all the prep and testing that went into the eVTOL’s first transitional flight before BETA ever left the ground. While the transition may seem simple at first glance, it’s rather difficult to engineer an aircraft that can take off in one direction and then adjust its rotors to move on an entirely different axis… all while in the air.

For perspective, BETA’s latest flight transition from sitting stationary to vertical flight, to forward, wingborne, then back to vertical flight in preparation for landing. BETA stressed the importance of this eVTOL flight test milestone because it validates the ALIA’s “lift and cruise” design. As a simpler solution to the challenge of runway independence, BETA believes it can certify its eVTOL aircraft more quickly.

Better yet, BETA relayed that its eVTOL design significantly reduces maintenance and cost while increasing flight reliability and safety. All without any air pollution. Per the release:

We’ve been progressing toward this technical milestone for a while. It’s a new flight regime, and we fly all our missions with a pilot in the seat, so we approached it the best way we know how: by respecting physics. Like everything we do at BETA, we took a methodical, step-by-step approach. Transition — and all of the incremental testing leading up to it — provides us with the data we need to validate our design decisions as we continue toward certifying A250. It also brings us one step closer to getting this technology into the market and into the hands of our customers to complete meaningful missions

Looking ahead, BETA says the ALIA aircraft will be used by the military first, then cargo carriers and commercial passenger operations. The ALIA eVTOL transition test seen below was piloted by Nate Moyer, BETA test pilot, and former experimental test pilot for the US Air Force:

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Scooter Doll is a writer, designer and tech enthusiast born in Chicago and based on the West Coast. When he’s not offering the latest tech how tos or insights, he’s probably watching Chicago sports. Please send any tips or suggestions, or dog photos to him at [email protected]