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I want to become an airline pilot which science/engineering classes should I take going into my senior year of high school?
I am a Junior currently, I would just like a little bit of information on which classes, specifically science or engineering classes to take for my senior year of high school if I choose to go into the aviation field. I have a decent list of colleges lined up, a decent amount of them have flight programs. Some are 4 year schools and some are 2 year schools. As I continue to approach that day, I would love to get some opinions on the classes to take leading up to it.
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Martha D.’s Answer
Hi Joe, yours is a very thoughtful question. You're off to a great start on CareerVillage!
The consensus seems to be that mathematics is particularly important for pilots, followed by physics. Both links below go into more detail. The second link shows responses to a similar question from pilots.
Two points to add:
1) You should show an interest and aptitude in STEM courses in high school, but your training after high school will deliver the content you need and at the depth you need.
2) Being a pilot requires a range of skills, such as communication, managing a team, problem-solving, psychology and more. The first link delves into this more, but I encourage you to consider a range of courses as relevant.
Wishing you good luck!
Aerocadet (pilot training in US & Europe) - https://aerocadet.com/blog/high-school-subjects-for-aspiring-airline-pilots/
CareerVillage (from pilots) - https://www.careervillage.org/questions/28378/what-classes-should-i-take-in-high-school-that-would-help-me-in-becoming-a-professional-pilot
The consensus seems to be that mathematics is particularly important for pilots, followed by physics. Both links below go into more detail. The second link shows responses to a similar question from pilots.
Two points to add:
1) You should show an interest and aptitude in STEM courses in high school, but your training after high school will deliver the content you need and at the depth you need.
2) Being a pilot requires a range of skills, such as communication, managing a team, problem-solving, psychology and more. The first link delves into this more, but I encourage you to consider a range of courses as relevant.
Wishing you good luck!
Martha D. recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Nikolas’s Answer
That’s an excellent question! Pilots must be well-rounded individuals, equipped with a diverse skill set that includes strong communication and teamwork abilities.
Here are some valuable subjects worth considering:
1. **Physics**: This is essential for understanding aerodynamics.
2. **Mathematics**: Pilots use math daily to calculate weight and balance, fuel consumption, and more.
3. **Computer Science or Engineering**: These subjects help build a solid foundation in mechanics, navigation, and systems.
4. **Earth Science**: Particularly important for understanding weather patterns, which are crucial for pilots.
5. **Foreign Languages**: These skills can be important, especially if you plan to fly internationally.
I encourage to pursue subjects that genuinely interest you. Wishing you blue skies!
https://inflightpilottraining.com/what-high-school-classes-will-help-you-the-most-at-flight-school/
Here are some valuable subjects worth considering:
1. **Physics**: This is essential for understanding aerodynamics.
2. **Mathematics**: Pilots use math daily to calculate weight and balance, fuel consumption, and more.
3. **Computer Science or Engineering**: These subjects help build a solid foundation in mechanics, navigation, and systems.
4. **Earth Science**: Particularly important for understanding weather patterns, which are crucial for pilots.
5. **Foreign Languages**: These skills can be important, especially if you plan to fly internationally.
I encourage to pursue subjects that genuinely interest you. Wishing you blue skies!
Nikolas recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Greg’s Answer
Hey Joe, I commend you on your motivation and forward thinking as you work towards your goals. That is a tremendously important skill to have in aviation. The classes that were previously mentioned should be good, but you will learn more of those things later on in flight school. I would just recommend that you try to get good grades so that you can get into the school of your choice.
Good luck!
Good luck!