With the availability of airline schools and aviation training in the U.S., the percentage of military pilots now flying for major airlines is decreasing. Ex-military pilots populate flight decks of commercial airlines all over the world. Retiring from military service allows pilots, who have undergone rigorous training in military settings, to apply their training and skills to new civilian careers. But, for those with no military aviation background, aviation training is readily available in vocational and trade schools.

Aviation training teaches students to operate airplanes, helicopters, air balloons, dirigibles, and pretty much anything else that flies. Aviation training involves the study of mechanics, aeronautics, flight dynamics, geography, weather, and environmental conditions that affect flight. Aviation training takes hours of classroom work and discussion, not to mention many enjoyable hours learning to pilot various aircraft.

Aviation training prepares students for careers of varied perspectives and purposes, but most aviation training results in a career in the commercial airline field or the field of transportation. Pilots may choose other options, such as flying privately-owned, non-scheduled business and commercial transport planes; regularly scheduled delivery cargo planes; or small planes for small commercial airline companies. Those who choose private aviation may enjoy a career as a free-lance pilot flying at will and combining their aviation training with another career. Others may prefer to serve as a first responder flying rescue missions in helicopters.

Aviation schools prepare students for exciting and well-paid careers as pilots. Most aviators make reasonable salaries, but the pay scale can vary widely. An experienced pilot in charge of commanding a commercial airliner in the U.S. will average around $130,000 annually, while pilots working for small regional airlines may earn less than $20,000.