How to Write a Pilot's Resume in 2026: The Complete Australian Aviation Guide

The Australian aviation industry is experiencing unprecedented demand in 2026. With major carriers like Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Rex actively recruiting, competition for pilot positions has intensified. Whether you're a low-hour pilot fresh from flight school or an experienced captain with thousands of hours, your resume needs to pass both automated screening systems and impress hiring managers.

This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to craft an Australian pilot resume that lands interviews at airlines, regional operators, charter companies, and corporate aviation departments.

Understanding the 2026 Australian Aviation Hiring Landscape

Before writing your resume, it's essential to understand what Australian airlines are looking for in 2026:

Current Market Conditions:

• Airlines are hiring for immediate capability, not just potential

• Automated Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) screen most applications

• Regional carriers face ongoing pilot shortages as major airlines recruit aggressively

• With movement in the industry at such a high rate, entry level jobs are much more attainable than ever before.

What Airlines Prioritise:

• CASA licence validity and currency

• Total flight hours and hours on type

• Safety record and incident-free operations

• Crew Resource Management (CRM) skills

• Cultural fit and professional presentation

• Technical and non technical skills

Essential Components of an Australian Pilot Resume

Format and Structure

Australian aviation employers prefer clean, ATS-friendly formats. Follow these guidelines:

Length: 1-2 pages maximum (Australian employers accept longer resumes than US counterparts) Font: Arial or Calibri, 11-point File Format: PDF (unless specifically requested otherwise) Paper Size: A4

Standard Section Order:

1. Contact Information

2. Professional Summary

3. Licences and Certifications

4. Flight Experience Summary

5. Employment History

6. Education

7. Skills

8. Professional Memberships (optional)

9. References: "Referees available upon request"

Critical ATS Optimisation Tips

Do:

• Use standard section headings (Experience, Education, Certifications)

• Include keywords from job descriptions naturally

• List CASA licence/Endorsements and Aviation Reference Number (ARN)

• Quantify achievements with specific numbers

• Use simple bullet points, not complex tables or graphics

• Include aircraft type ratings explicitly (e.g., B737, A320, Saab 340)

Don't:

• Use images, logos, or complex graphics

• Include tables or text boxes that ATS can't parse

• Use headers or footers for important information

• Write in first person ("I managed...")

• Include lengthy paragraphs

Keywords That Matter in 2026

Incorporate these industry-specific keywords naturally throughout your resume:

Licences and Certifications:

• CASA Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

• Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL)

• Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR)

• Aviation Reference Number (ARN)

• Class 1 Medical Certificate

• Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC)

Operational Skills:

• Flight planning

• Flight operations

• Crew Resource Management (CRM)

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

• Safety Management Systems (SMS)

• Threat and Error Management (TEM)

• Line Oriented Flight Training (LOFT)

Aircraft Types:

• List specific aircraft (Boeing 737, Airbus A320, Saab 340, Diamond DA40, etc.)

• Include total hours and hours on type

Safety and Compliance:

• CASA regulations

• Safety procedures

• Emergency response

• Risk assessment

Resume Template for Low-Hour Pilots (200-500 Hours)

This template is designed for recent flight school graduates, cadets, and pilots building hours through instructing or charter work.

SAMUEL MITCHELL
Sydney, NSW 2000
+61 4XX XXX XXX | samuel.mitchell@email.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/samuelmitchell

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Recently qualified Commercial Pilot with 280 total flight hours and strong foundation in multi-engine operations. CASA CPL holder with MECIR, demonstrating commitment to aviation safety and operational excellence. Seeking remote Charter positions to contribute to safe, efficient flight operations while developing a career with a well renowned Australian operator.

LICENCES & CERTIFICATIONS

Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) | CASA | Licence #: XXXXX | Current
Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR) | Issued: February 2025
Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) | Completed: March 2025
Aviation Reference Number (ARN): XXXXXXXX
Class 1 Medical Certificate | Current | Expires: December 2026
Aviation English Language Proficiency: Level 6

FLIGHT EXPERIENCE SUMMARY

Total Time: 280 hours
Pilot in Command: 120 hours
Multi-Engine: 85 hours
Instrument (Actual): 35 hours
Instrument (Simulated): 45 hours
Cross Country: 95 hours
Night: 25 hours

Aircraft Types:

• Diamond DA40 NG (195 hours)

• Diamond DA42 Twin Star (85 hours)

EDUCATION

Cadet Pilot
Qantas Group Pilot Academy, Toowoomba, QLD
January 2024 - March 2025

• Completed intensive 14-month integrated pilot training program

• Achieved high distinction in ATPL theory examinations (average score: 92%)

• Demonstrated exceptional performance in multi-crew environment during MCC training

• Participated in 25+ simulated emergency drills, maintaining composure and effective decision-making

• Received "Outstanding Cadet" recognition for consistent safety adherence and professional conduct

SKILLS

Technical: Flight planning using NAIPS and EFB systems, Performance-Based Navigation (PBN), Advanced avionics operation, Pre-flight safety checks, Weather interpretation

Non Technical: Crew Resource Management (CRM), Clear communication with ATC, Adaptability under pressure, Team collaboration, Problem-solving, Attention to detail

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

• Australian Federation of Air Pilots (AFAP) - Student Member

REFERENCES

Professional referees available upon request

Resume Template for Experienced Pilots (1,500+ Hours)

This template suits pilots transitioning between airlines, seeking command positions, or moving from regional to major carriers.

CAPTAIN REBECCA THOMPSON
Melbourne, VIC 3000
+61 4XX XXX XXX | rebecca.thompson@email.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccathompson

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Safety-focused airline captain with 8,500+ flight hours across regional turboprop and jet operations. Proven track record of achieving exceptional on-time performance (>97%), zero safety incidents, and strong crew leadership across domestic Australian routes. Expertise in line training, crew mentorship, and CASA regulatory compliance. Seeking senior First Officer or command position with major Australian carrier to leverage extensive operational experience and commitment to aviation excellence.

LICENCES & CERTIFICATIONS

Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) | CASA | Licence #: XXXXX | Current
Boeing 737-800 Type Rating | Current | Issued: June 2022
Saab 340 Type Rating | Current
Aviation Reference Number (ARN): XXXXXXXX
Class 1 Medical Certificate | Current | Expires: August 2026
Training & Checking Endorsement | Current
Aviation English Language Proficiency: Level 6

FLIGHT EXPERIENCE SUMMARY

Total Time: 8,520 hours
Pilot in Command: 4,850 hours
Multi-Engine: 7,200 hours
Instrument (Actual): 2,100 hours
Multi-Crew: 8,200 hours
Night: 1,450 hours

Aircraft Types:

• Boeing 737-800 (3,200 hours, 1,800 PIC)

• Saab 340B (4,100 hours, 2,850 PIC)

• Fokker 100 (920 hours, 200 PIC)

• Diamond DA42 (300 hours)

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Captain - Boeing 737-800
Virgin Australia, Melbourne, VIC
July 2022 - Present

• Command B737-800 aircraft on domestic routes across eastern Australia serving major and regional destinations

• Maintain exceptional safety record with zero incidents or violations across 1,800+ command hours

• Achieve consistent on-time performance of 97.8%, exceeding company targets.

• Conduct line training for newly qualified First Officers, successfully transitioning 12 pilots to line operations

• Serve as crew mentor, improving early-career pilot retention by 22% within training cohort

• Lead pre-flight briefings ensuring crew alignment on safety procedures and operational considerations

• Participate in Safety Management System (SMS) committees, contributing to improved stabilised approach procedures

• Manage irregular operations including weather diversions and technical issues with calm, effective decision-making

First Officer - Boeing 737-800
Virgin Australia, Melbourne, VIC
March 2021 - July 2022

• Operated as First Officer on B737-800 domestic services supporting captain in all flight operations

• Completed type rating training and line training ahead of schedule with commendable performance

• Demonstrated strong Crew Resource Management skills, fostering effective cockpit communication

• Managed flight planning, fuel calculations, and performance data ensuring regulatory compliance

• Participated in simulator training sessions maintaining proficiency and currency

Captain - Saab 340B
Regional Express (Rex), Sydney, NSW
January 2018 - March 2021

• Commanded Saab 340 turboprop operations across regional New South Wales and Victoria routes

• Achieved 98.5% dispatch reliability through meticulous pre-flight planning and aircraft systems management

• Led emergency response during bird-strike incident, executing safe diversion and maintaining passenger calm

• Trained and mentored six cadet pilots transitioning from flight school to commercial operations

• Consistently maintained superior customer service ratings from cabin crew feedback

• Contributed to operational procedures review, improving turnaround efficiency.

First Officer - Saab 340B
Regional Express (Rex), Sydney, NSW
June 2016 - December 2017

• Operated regional services supporting captain across diverse weather and operational conditions

• Maintained comprehensive knowledge of CASA regulations and company Standard Operating Procedures

• Demonstrated reliability with strong attendance record and zero training deficiencies

• Built strong working relationships with ATC, ground operations, and cabin crew

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Aviation Management
University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA
Graduated: November 2015

Relevant Coursework: Aviation Safety Systems, Flight Operations, Air Law, Human Factors and CRM, Airline Management

Commercial Pilot Training
Basair Aviation college, Sydney, NSW
Completed: May 2016

Integrated CPL program including MECIR

SKILLS

Operational Expertise: Advanced flight planning, Performance-Based Navigation (PBN), Flight Management Systems (FMS), Electronic Flight Bags, Weather radar interpretation, Fuel management optimisation, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

Safety & Compliance: CASA regulations, Safety Management Systems (SMS), Threat and Error Management (TEM), Line Oriented Flight Training (LOFT), Emergency procedures, Risk assessment

Leadership & CRM: Crew Resource Management, Conflict resolution, Decision-making under pressure, Effective communication, Team leadership, Cadet mentorship, Training and checking

Technical Systems: Boeing flight systems, Turboprop operations, ACARS/CPDLC, TCAS/EGPWS, Advanced avionics

PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS

• Zero safety incidents across 8,500+ flight hours

• Consistently exceeded on-time performance targets

• Successfully transitioned 12 First Officers to line operations with 100% pass rate

• Contributed to 22% improvement in early-career pilot retention

• Recognised for exceptional performance during emergency bird-strike management

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

• Australian Federation of Air Pilots (AFAP) - Full Member

• Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA)

• Royal Aeronautical Society - Member

REFERENCES

Professional referees available upon request

Tailoring Your Resume for Specific Positions

For Major Airlines (Qantas, Virgin Australia)

Emphasise:

• Total hours and jet experience (if applicable)

• Leadership and CRM capabilities

• Safety record and compliance

• Customer service orientation

• Professional presentation

Example Achievement Statement: "Maintained safety compliance across 3,200 hours on B737-800, with zero incidents and consistent on-time performance exceeding company targets.

For Regional Operators (Rex, Alliance, Cobham)

Emphasize:

• Adaptability to varied operating conditions

• Regional route experience

• Community engagement

• Turboprop experience (if applicable)

• Ability to work in remote locations

Example Achievement Statement: "Successfully operated Saab 340 services to 18 regional destinations across NSW and VIC, maintaining dispatch reliability in challenging weather conditions"

For Charter and Corporate Aviation

Emphasise:

• Client interaction skills

• Flexibility and discretion

• VIP service experience

• Diverse aircraft types

• Non-standard operations

Example Achievement Statement: "Provided white-glove charter services to high-net-worth individuals and corporate executives, receiving positive feedback for professionalism and service quality"

For Flight Instruction Positions

Emphasise:

• Teaching experience and methods

• Student success rates

• Safety culture development

• Communication skills

• Patience and mentorship

Example Achievement Statement: "Achieved 95% first-time pass rate for CPL flight test candidates through structured training programs and individualised coaching approach"

Common Resume Mistakes to Avoid

1. Including Outdated or Irrelevant Experience: Focus on aviation-related roles; limit non-aviation jobs to one or two lines

2. Failing to Quantify Achievements: Always use specific numbers (hours, aircraft types)

3. Using Generic Objectives: Tailor your summary to each specific position

4. Listing Expired Certifications: Only include current, valid licences and ratings

5. Poor Formatting: Avoid complex designs that ATS systems can't read

6. Spelling and Grammar Errors: Aviation demands precision; proofread thoroughly

7. Missing CASA Licence Numbers: Always include your ARN and licence details

8. Vague Descriptions: Be specific about aircraft types, hours, and responsibilities

9. Omitting Safety Record: Your incident-free operations are a key selling point

10. Not Tailoring for Each Application: Customise keywords and emphasis for each airline

Cover Letter Essentials for Australian Airlines

While your resume provides the data, your cover letter tells your story. Keep it to one page and include:

1. Opening: State the specific position and how you learned about it

2. Why This Airline: Demonstrate knowledge of their operations and values

3. Your Value Proposition: Highlight 2-3 key qualifications that match their needs

4. Cultural Fit: Show understanding of their company culture

5. Call to Action: Express enthusiasm and availability for interview

Example Opening: "I am writing to apply for the First Officer position advertised on the Regional express careers portal. As a commercially qualified pilot with 875 hours and recent MCC certification, I am eager to contribute to REX's commitment to safety, operational excellence, and outstanding customer service."

Final Checklist Before Submitting

✓ Contact details are current and professional
✓ All CASA licences and ratings are listed with numbers and expiry dates
✓ Flight hours are accurate and up-to-date
✓ Aircraft types are clearly specified
✓ Achievements are quantified with specific numbers
✓ Resume is ATS-friendly (no graphics, simple formatting)
✓ Keywords from job description are naturally incorporated
✓ Document is saved as PDF with professional filename (e.g., "Samuel_Mitchell_Pilot_Resume.pdf")
✓ Spelling and grammar are perfect
✓ References are prepared separately
✓ Cover letter is tailored to the specific airline and position

Next Steps After Submitting Your Resume

1. Follow Up Strategically: Wait 7-10 days, then send a polite follow-up email

2. Prepare for Assessments: Research the airline's simulator scenarios and interview format

3. Update Your LinkedIn: Ensure it matches your resume

4. Network Actively: Attend aviation industry events and pilot expos

5. Stay Current: Maintain recency and consider additional ratings

Conclusion

The Australian aviation market in 2026 offers tremendous opportunities for pilots at all experience levels. By crafting an ATS-optimised, achievement-focused resume that clearly demonstrates your qualifications, safety record, and cultural fit, you'll significantly increase your chances of landing interviews with top airlines.

Remember: your resume is your first flight plan to career success. Make it clear, precise, and professional—just like your flying.

Ready to take off in your aviation career? Start building your winning resume today.

For more information on CASA licence requirements, visit www.casa.gov.au. To search for current pilot positions across Australia, check on aviationcareers.com.au or major airline career portals and other job board sites.