To work as a flight engineer, you must first complete specialized training. Most flight engineers have a strong grasp of complex concepts, a natural aptitude for complicated mathematical formulas, and a general interest in aviation. Extensive training, which can be costly, is required to become a flight engineer. Training can be obtained through the military or through a variety of civilian aviation schools that have been approved by regional aviation authorities. It may be easier to start your career as a flight engineer and work your way up through the ranks at a smaller, regional airline.
A flight engineer must be at least 21 years old. Flight engineers, like pilots, must pass a thorough physical examination. Corrective lenses, contacts, or corrective laser eye surgery are required, as well as a second-class medical certificate and perfect vision. Flight engineers must also be able to communicate in English (speak, write, read, and comprehend) or have a language restriction on their license. Courses in meteorology, airplane systems, theory of aerodynamics, fuel consumption computation, and emergency procedures are also required.
All those interested in becoming a flight engineer must complete two years of college and specific training. Before applying to become a flight engineer, you must first complete commercial pilot training and obtain a commercial pilot’s license, which requires 250 hours of recorded flight time. Civilian flight engineers must then obtain additional training from organizations such as the Airline Transport Professionals Flight Training School or, if serving in the military, the US Air Force. After that, the prospective flight engineer can apply for a flight engineer’s license. He or she must pass tests on preflight inspection, aircraft maintenance, and pre-takeoff and landing procedures before receiving a license.
Flight engineer positions with major airlines or air carriers are likely to be competitive. Starting your career with a smaller commuter or regional airline allows you to gain the experience and knowledge that most larger national airlines require. Some people who want to be flight engineers start out as air traffic controllers or in airfield operations and work their way up. As many of the newer airplanes are designed to only require two pilots, the demand for new flight engineers is decreasing in 2011. Most large national and international airlines prefer pilots who have also earned a flight engineer’s license.