The assessment process for an airline pilot role can be a daunting time for some pilots. The section that lots of pilots commonly struggle with is the competency-based interview. Part of this is through a lack of understanding as to what the recruiter is actually looking for.

The airline industry has developed considerably over the last few decades, as has the role of the pilots. It’s a given that the pilots can fly an ILS approach, instead much of the emphasis is now placed on the flight crew’s soft skills. They’re looking for you to demonstrate that you have all the non-technical (soft skills) required to be successful in the role - regardless of how long you’ve been a pilot. 

Naturally, the more experienced the pilot is, the easier it will be to manage this section of the interview. But for the less experienced pilot, a few simple actions can ensure you are set up for success in this section of the assessment.

First impressions 

First impressions count. People will form an opinion of you within the first few seconds of meeting you. You want your impression to be a good one as this can have a real impact on how the remainder of the interview goes. You want the recruiter to be thinking that you ‘look the part’ before the interview even begins.

Body language 

Think about your body language. You need to come across as open, positive and receptive. Don’t sit with your arms crossed or behind your back – this can come across as defensive or too relaxed. When invited to take a seat, sit upright with your hands on your lap. Ensure you make eye contact with whoever you are addressing.

If you can’t think of an answer

There will almost always be an occasion when you get a question you weren’t expecting or hadn’t thought about. If you can’t think of a specific example, ask if you can come back to that question at the end of the interview. Remember – if you don’t answer the question, the assessor can’t say that you demonstrated the required competencies and therefore you won’t get the job. If at the end of the interview you still can’t think of an appropriate example, say what you would do if the situation occurred.

Practice, practice, practice

Rehearse your answers to the common interview questions. It doesn’t need to be a rigid script, but have a good idea of the points you want to get across and the examples you can use to demonstrate you have all of the above competencies.

Know the airline

It’s surprising how many people don’t. Know the airline you are applying or. For example you should be able to tell the recruiter things like fleet size, bases etc.

If you have an upcoming airline interview, then we wish you the best of luck. 

Our APS MCC courses have helped hundreds of pilots pass airline assessments and begin their flying careers.