Very few things capture our attention the way aviation does. Be it flying, navigating or engineering an aircraft, aviation is an extremely interesting field.

While some may be happy just being passengers, there are several aspirants who dream of a career in aviation. And why not! This sector in India is the 3rd largest in the world and ripe with career opportunities.

If you are fresh out of school and want a career with high job satisfaction and salary, consider aviation. Here are the top 4 career opportunities in this industry that are bound to engage you along with offering financial security.

1. Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (A.M.E.)

Do you want to work with aeroplanes without flying them? If yes, then studying for the coveted designation of an aircraft maintenance engineer is for you. An AME is always in demand and is responsible for ensuring that an aircraft operates safely. These professionals handle a plane's electronic and mechanical repairs, perform inspections, and replace parts when needed.

Today, thirty-nine thousand planes are adorning the skies worldwide, and not one of them becomes airborne until an A.M.E. deems it fit to fly. You can apply for an A.M.E. program at any D.G.C.A. approved aviation training institute. All you need is an aggregate of 50% marks in 10+2 in the subjects of Physics, Chemistry and Math.

2. Pilot

While the engine is the heart of an aircraft, the pilot is its face. Studying to become a pilot is one of the most sought-after careers in aviation. If you are purely interested in flying a commercial plane, this career path is for you. But, bear in mind that becoming an airline pilot involves meticulous training and managing a substantial amount of emotional intelligence, given that you fly hundreds of souls on board each day.

You can begin studies to become a pilot right after matriculation by applying to a flying school. The training includes both ground studies and real-time flying instructions. Once you achieve a certain number of flying hours stipulated by the DGCA, you earn a commercial pilot license (CPL). After which, airlines can hire you as a first officer and eventually promote you to the position of captain.

3. Air Traffic Controller (ATC.)

Air traffic controllers are rightly called "Guardian Angels", and they control different aspects of a plane's journey. It is an A.T.C.'s job to help pilots navigate their way from one destination to another right from take-off to landing. Air traffic Controllers are hired and trained by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

If you are interested in applying for this post, bear in mind that it is a high-involvement job where countless lives depend on how well you do your job. The ATC recruitment process begins when AAI advertises vacancies in local dailies or on their website. Only Indian nationals who have secured at least 60% marks in B.Sc. (Physics and Mathematics) or B.E. in any discipline can apply. Additionally, a candidate must be fluent in English and needs to go through a written examination, a voice and medical test to become an air traffic controller.

4. Cabin Crew

A big part of aviation is hospitality, and the onus of providing excellent service and comfort to passengers while ensuring their safety falls on the cabin crew. Flight attendants are the face of an airline. Their responsibilities go far beyond the realm of serving food and beverages. These professionals are passengers' first point of contact in case an emergency arises on board and can also administer first-aid if needed.

If you have completed 10+2 in any stream of subjects, you can directly apply to an airline for cabin crew positions. However, most airlines today prefer if the candidate has a 1-year diploma in cabin crew services from a reputed training institute. Since this is a customer-facing role, applicants require minimum fluency in English.

Over to You

As you can see, there are several options to begin your career with, when it comes to aviation. Becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is a particularly lucrative career option today, since air travel is gaining popularity. Naturally, airlines need trained professionals that can ensure the safety and maintenance of aircraft. Learn more about becoming an A.M.E. at the School of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (SAME).