Preparing for an interview can feel overwhelming, but with a little structure, it can start to feel much more manageable.
A typical pilot interview is usually broken into four sections:
- Introduction – where you share your previous flying experience and background.
- Scenario-Based Questions – where the interviewer will ask, “Tell me about a time when…” and you answer using the STAR method (see my previous blog post for more details on this)
- Technical / Knowledge Questions – focused on your understanding of Air Law, operations, and aviation regulations.
- Open Discussion – where you have the opportunity to ask your own questions.
In this post, I’ll share some common technical questions gathered from my own experience and from speaking with fellow crew members.
Common Technical Questions
- What does CAVOK mean?
- What is the difference between TODA and TORA?
- What are approved sources of QNH?
- How does a partial runway lighting failure affect the instrument approach visibility requirements?
- What is the holding time and speed at FL170?
- What speed restrictions apply in Class D airspace?
- What are the visual approach requirements by night?
- Upon reaching the DA/MDA, what do you need in order to continue the approach?
- What is the minimum wake turbulence waiting time in a Medium aircraft, when departing behind a Heavy aircraft?
- What is the difference between MSA and LSALT?
These are just a few examples, but they make a solid starting point for your interview preparation.
You should also be ready to confidently answer questions about:
- The aircraft you are currently flying.
- Basic (minimal) knowledge about the fleet you are interviewing for.
For more questions and detailed answers, check out our Free Technical Database or contact me for personal consulting.
Good luck — and remember, preparation builds confidence!
