Your role as a pilot is all about taking to the skies and ensuring a safe and efficient flight. You’re responsible for your passengers’ lives and each flight’s success.
Your daily tasks are nothing short of remarkable, including pre-flight checks, navigation planning, communication with air traffic control, and handling unforeseen challenges with composure and expertise.
Writing a cover letter to accompany your pilot resume is a totally different kind of challenge, but necessary if you want to level up your career.
We’re here to assist you in creating a cover letter that soars above the competition. Explore our pilot cover letter examples and valuable tips to make this process a breeze.
Copy this text for your pilot cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Tampa, FL 33601
(123) 456-7890
October 5, 2023
Riley Parker
Southwest Airlines
123 Fictional Lane
Tampa, FL 33601
Dear Mr. Parker:
I’m delighted by Southwest Airlines’ commitment to superior service and profound excellence in aviation. Your average customer rating of 4.5/5 from over 45,310 reviews on Tripadvisor articulates the trust and satisfaction passengers harbor towards your airline. Your skilled and knowledgeable pilots undoubtedly play a critical role in this achievement, and it would be an honor to join your team, leveraging my comprehensive skills and valid pilot license.
Over the past four years, I have confidently directed over 36 business and pleasure flights as a commercial aviation pilot for Silver Airways. Therein, I anchored my operations around meticulous flight planning and navigation, ensuring optimal operational standards while effectively averting potential risks. By leveraging cutting-edge flight planning software, my diligent planning strategy led to a 17% improvement in overall flight efficiency and reduced flight delays by 12%.
As a flight operations officer at Southern Airways Express, I enhanced radio communication efficiency by 19%. Aided by the Sigma-7 communication system, I resolved approximately 187 instances of potential miscommunication, fostering safer flights.
My career focus has always been providing passengers with dependable service that makes them feel secure and heard. This aligns perfectly with Southwest Airlines’ ethos for imperative safety and stellar service standards. I look forward to further discussing how our objectives are intertwined and how I can contribute to advancing passengers’ trust in Southwest Airlines.
Sincerely,
Jacob Cohen
Enclosures:
Resume
Application
2 letters of recommendation
Pilot License
Why this cover letter works
- How about flaunting your pilot cover letter career progression in reverse chronological order? Think of it as an invitation for the recruiter to trace your growth and resilience amidst the aviation industry’s changing tides.
- Instead of arranging your professional experiences haphazardly, begin with the most recent one, moving backward in time. An example would be a chief pilot role, followed by senior and junior first officer roles. Whichever your narrative, break each experience into specific duties and quantified accomplishments.
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Copy this text for your entry-level pilot cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Denver, CO 55555
(123) 456-7890
February 27, 2024
George Addison
Southwest Airlines
123 Fictional Lane
Denver, CO 55555
Dear Mr. Addison:
Jumping into the cockpit for the first time while earning my pilot’s certification was an exhilarating, unforgettable experience fueled by the unending vastness of the open skies and the challenge of mastering an aircraft mid-flight. It ignited my passion to be a part of the aviation sector, and I have been fortunate to weave it into my profession for the past few years. Now, I’m ready to apply my skills and dedication as an entry-level pilot at Southwest Airlines.
The intensive curriculum at Paragon Flight Training School provided me with vital flight expertise, placing a strong emphasis on safety protocols, streamlined aircraft handling, and fostering a secure environment for passengers. These acquired skills served me well during my subsequent internship. A key lesson at Paragon was the significance of thorough aircraft maintenance, demonstrated in my 98% compliance rate regarding maintenance record monitoring at Jet Linx.
Embracing collaboration with air traffic control to identify the most effective flight routes was instilled in me at Paragon. This proficiency helped reduce flight delays by 23% throughout my stint at Jet Linx. Equipped with the ability to adapt and respond to complex weather conditions and fluctuating flight rules, I prioritize airworthiness above all, aligning my capabilities with the essential requirements of this role.
Possessing an FAA Airmen Certificate, an FAA First Class Medical Certificate, and an unrestricted passport verifies my readiness for this position. My flight hours far exceed the 250-hour prerequisite, showcasing my preparedness to contribute immediately.
I’m enthusiastic to explore how my distinctive combination of experience, aptitudes, and pilot training render me an ideal fit for the entry-level pilot position.
Sincerely,
Francesca Bell
Enclosures:
Resume
FAA Airmen Certificate
FAA First Class Medical Certificate
Why this cover letter works
- So, you’re just diving into flying and wondering how to craft an entry-level pilot cover letter that opens the gateway to your dream aviation company. A focus on the proficiencies mastered at flight school, given they align with the role’s requirements, is your best bet here.
- Talk about safety protocols, aircraft handling, fostering a secure environment for passengers, and meeting the minimum flight hours. Then, seal the deal with a mention or attachment of your FAA Airmen and FAA First Class Medical certificates.
Copy this text for your low-hour pilot cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Tampa, FL 48111
(123) 456-7890
February 15, 2024
Nora McDowell
Silver Airways
789 Pretend Ave
Tampa, FL 48111
Dear Ms. McDowell:
Silver Airways’ commitment to nurturing pilots with a strong foundation and a keenness to grow within the industry is precisely why I’m excited to continue my career with your company. With a background in aviation, demonstrated through roles at Rentokil and Spirit Airlines, I have amassed 400+ flight hours with an exemplary safety record. My tenures as an aerial photography pilot and traffic watch pilot have equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in Silver Airways’ dynamic and challenging environment.
My professional journey has been marked by continuous learning and improvement, leveraging advanced flight planning tools such as FitPlan Go, APDB, and Rockwell Collins Flight2 to enhance operational efficiency, reduce fuel consumption by up to 19%, and ensure passenger safety. I hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, and my fluent command of the English language, coupled with the ability to work all shifts, aligns perfectly with the qualifications you are seeking.
Notably, my expertise extends beyond flight operations to include strong interpersonal and communication skills, allowing me to successfully team lift and collaborate effectively with crew members and engineering teams to ensure passenger satisfaction. My commitment to aviation safety and operations excellence was recognized through commendations from passengers and colleagues alike.
The prospect of bringing my background, skills, and passion for aviation to your team is thrilling. I look forward to discussing how my experiences and visions for aviation safety and efficiency can help achieve and exceed Silver Airways’ operational goals.
Thank you for your consideration,
Karl Langston
Enclosures:
Resume
Application
Transcripts
Why this cover letter works
- Can you recall instances when passengers and peers showered you with praise during your previous stints? Make sure to spotlight these moments in your low-hour pilot cover letter, particularly when you have limited flying hours to put on display.
- Such praises, whether they applaud your commitment to aviation safety, flight operation excellence, or strong situational awareness, are sure to augment your appeal in the aviation job market. It’s simply about providing a human-centric perspective to your competence, which could set you apart from the competition.
Copy this text for your aviation cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Honolulu, HI
(123) 456-7890
October 5, 2023
Anthony Evans
Hawaiian Airlines
123 Fictional Lane
Honolulu, HI
Dear Mr. Evans:
When I read about Hawaiian Airlines’ unveiling of the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner Cabin Design and the introduction of Leihōkū Suites, I felt my skills as an airline dispatcher are well-aligned with this endeavor. Holding a similar vision with Hawaiian Airlines in offering passengers a unique blend of safety, comfort, and luxury, I find your highly esteemed company an ideal place to contribute from my reservoir of skills in weather interpretation, aircraft performance calculation, and air traffic management.
Your ethos binds strongly with my commitment to safe and seamless flights, irrespective of prevailing circumstances. As an aviation forecaster at the Hawaii Forecast Office for two years, I extensively analyzed meteorological data, ensuring safe and timely flights. Adept in using sophisticated weather forecasting software, I managed to increase the accuracy of my predictions by 18%, resulting in safer flights and approximately 9% less weather-related flight delays.
I spent three years at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport as an aircraft performance engineer, refining my ability to calculate aircraft performance. My timely and accurate performance calculations, along with the practical application of ALR Aerospace’s aircraft performance software, boosted fuel efficiency by 13% and enhanced our punctuality by 17%.
A stint as an air traffic controller at the Honolulu Control Facility saw me manage air traffic for over 48 diverse flights daily. Employing Leidos, an advanced air traffic management software, I reduced potential airspace breaches by 11% and increased overall airspace efficiency by 16%.
Carrying forward my unwavering focus on passenger safety and seamless flight experience, I’m ready to contribute as your airline dispatcher. Managing the logistical ins and outs of Leihōkū Suites, I can channel my knowledge and skills to offer remarkable service on the ground and in the air. Looking forward to a deeper conversation on my qualifications for this role. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Lea Dupont
Why this cover letter works
- When crafting an aviation cover letter tailored to an airline dispatcher role, consider Lea’s strategy of weaving in the knowledge of the hiring airline.
- There are multiple approaches to company knowledge. You could applaud a recent achievement (cue, Boeing 787 Dreamliner Cabin Design), drop a mention of an impressive customer rating on an industry-pertinent review site like Tripadvisor, or align your aspirations with the company’s mission.
Copy this text for your airline pilot cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Chicago, IL 60601
(123) 456-7890
October 5, 2023
Aubrey Edwards
United Airlines
123 Fictional Lane
Chicago, IL 60601
Dear Ms. Edwards:
As United Airlines seeks a proactive and skilled navigator for the skies, I’m excited to apply my notable aircraft operation understanding, expertise in aircraft performance calculation, altitude and airspeed management, and more. My ability to acclimate to varying conditions, competence in making high-stakes decisions, and deep-seated familiarity with the aviation industry render me an excellent fit for the airline pilot role within your esteemed enterprise.
Working as a pilot at Monarch Air Group solidified my understanding of aircraft operation, successfully articulating dispatch procedures and pre-flight checks, resulting in a 38% increase in time efficiency for all flights. My flight simulation expertise led me to use popular tools like X-Plane and Prepar3D, empowering the team with cutting-edge tactics and simulated flight experiences.
My aptitude for aircraft performance calculations found practical application at Jet Linx Chicago. Using ForeFlight software, I enhanced the air traffic routes, saving 17% of fuel compared to previous routes. This not only drove down costs but also significantly diminished our carbon emissions, aligning with the company’s greener operational objectives.
Understanding altitude and airspeed management was crucial during my tenure at Priester Aviation. Here, I helped reduce turbulence experiences by 29%, vastly improving passenger comfort. Leveraging Garmin G1000 and Collins Pro Line Fusion avionics systems also proved instrumental in precision flight planning and control.
My integrated approach to sustainable, efficient flight execution makes me well-suited to refine United Airlines’ operational methodologies. A mix of my technical proficiencies, decision-making capacity, and people skills would ideally position me to excel as an airline pilot, anchored in maintaining passenger safety and satisfaction. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my suitability for this role further. Thank you for considering me to navigate the skies with United Airlines.
Thank you,
Malik Ahmed
Why this cover letter works
- You can have your airline pilot cover letter ascend to stratospheric heights (pun purely intended) by underlining your proficiency with cutting-edge industry tools and software.
- See how Malik takes us through his application of Garmin G1000, ForeFlight, X-plane, and Prepar3D for flight planning, navigation, and flight simulations. Use such narratives to showcase your adaptability and ability to stay on top of the evolving aviation technological landscape.
Related cover letter examples
How to Write the Perfect Pilot Cover Letter
Your experience as a pilot has honed your attention to detail, a critical skill that will also come in handy when crafting a standout cover letter. To make a compelling case for your suitability, you need to convey your abilities to potential employers. But how do you achieve this in a concise letter?
The key is to skillfully incorporate elements of the job description into your cover letter. For example, if the role emphasizes strong communication skills, demonstrate your ability to liaise effectively with crew members and air traffic control. Tailoring your cover letter in this way demonstrates that you’re not just any pilot; you’re the ideal candidate who’s ready to take the company to new heights.
Starting off right with a solid intro
To kick off your pilot cover letter effectively, always strive for a personalized greeting that addresses the recipient by name. You can do this by researching the company on platforms like LinkedIn, visiting its website, or even making a quick phone call. If you’ve exhausted all other options, a “Dear Hiring Manager” should still do the trick.
After the greeting, focus on creating an engaging opening paragraph that instantly captures the reader’s attention. Highlight what makes you the ideal fit for the role, whether it’s your unwavering commitment to flight safety, your extensive experience in handling various aircraft, or your exceptional problem-solving skills that ensure smooth flights.
The same applies if you’re a dispatcher—focus on your ability to work with others and ensure happy outcomes for every flight.
To show you what not to do, here’s a little example. It lacks enthusiasm, doesn’t convey any unique qualifications, and doesn’t engage the reader’s interest. Make sure you do better!
No way…
I’m fresh out of pilot school and I need a new job. I hope you can hire me.
Instead, aim to emulate this next example. It’s friendly, passionate, and gets right to the point—showcasing your piloting skills.
Much better!
As United Airlines seeks a proactive and skilled navigator for the skies, I’m excited to apply my notable aircraft operation understanding, expertise in aircraft performance calculation, altitude and airspeed management, and more. My ability to acclimate to varying conditions, competence in making high-stakes decisions, and deep-seated familiarity with the aviation industry renders me an excellent fit for the airline pilot role within your esteemed enterprise.
Crafting the perfect body paragraphs
The body paragraphs in a cover letter serve as the heart of your application, following up on the strong opening. Here, you should delve into your aviation career and highlight your proudest achievements.
For pilots, this could include successfully executing complex flight plans, maintaining an impeccable safety record, or demonstrating exceptional leadership in challenging situations. If you’re working in dispatch or another aviation-related role, make sure to adjust your cover letter and resume to match its demands.
To add weight to your claims, back up these achievements with concrete metrics. Share data like the number of flight hours logged, on-time departure records, or the efficiency improvements you’ve brought to flight operations.
Compelling!
As a flight operations officer at Southern Airways Express, I enhanced radio communication efficiency by 19%. Aided by the Sigma-7 communication system, I resolved approximately 187 instances of potential miscommunication, fostering safer flights.
Wrapping things up the right way
The closing paragraph is your opportunity to highlight your enthusiasm and show that you’ve researched the company and its values.
For example, if you’re seeking a role at an airline known for its commitment to safety, express your dedication to upholding and enhancing safety standards in your flying career.
You can also mention how you intend to contribute to the company’s success, such as by leveraging your expertise in advanced aircraft technology to enhance operational efficiency.
Finally, express gratitude for the opportunity to apply and leave the cover letter with a professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely, [Your Name].”
Here’s an example that doesn’t follow this advice. It shows no passion, instead showing that they prioritize their vacation over getting the job.
Oops…
I’m looking forward to working with you. Keep in mind that I can’t start sooner than next month because I’m going on vacation.
Instead, try to emulate this next example. Reiterating their job skills, this applicant showcases their reliability and the instant value they’ll bring to the team.
Well done!
Carrying forward my unwavering focus on passenger safety and seamless flight experience, I’m ready to contribute as your airline dispatcher. Managing the logistical ins and outs of Leihökü Suites, I can channel my knowledge and skills to offer remarkable service on the ground and in the air. Looking forward to a deeper conversation on my qualifications for this role. Thank you.
As a pilot, the ability to convey a message in a few words is pretty crucial, and the same applies to your cover letter. Don’t go above a single page. This includes opening and closing paragraphs and then two or three body paragraphs.
Research the company thoroughly for specific details about its values, mission, or recent achievements. Incorporate this information into your cover letter to demonstrate your genuine interest and alignment with the company’s goals.
Emphasize your relevant education, certifications, and transferable skills. For instance, if you’re a certified pilot or hold relevant licenses, highlight them. Discuss any aviation-related coursework or training, and focus on transferable skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork gained from other work experiences. Don’t forget to mention your in-flight hours, as most airlines have strict requirements for that.
