Regional Airline Pilot Onboarding Checklist

Regional Airline Pilot Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Regional Airline Pilot starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Aviation onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Regional Airline Pilot, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Regional Airline Pilot onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Regional Airline Pilot Onboarding Checklist

1. Initial paperwork and documentation: This task involves completing all necessary paperwork and documentation required by the company, such as employment contracts, tax forms, and identification verification. The HR department or designated personnel within the company typically handle this task to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

2. Orientation and company policies: New pilots should receive a comprehensive orientation session to familiarize themselves with the company’s culture, values, and policies. This includes an overview of safety protocols, operational procedures, and company-specific guidelines. The training department or a designated trainer is responsible for conducting this session.

3. Aircraft familiarization: Since pilots will be operating different aircraft models, it is crucial to provide them with detailed training on the specific aircraft they will be flying. This includes understanding the cockpit layout, systems, emergency procedures, and aircraft limitations. The training department, along with experienced pilots or instructors, typically conducts this training.

4. Simulator training: Simulator training is an essential part of a pilot’s onboarding process. It allows them to practice various flight scenarios, emergency procedures, and decision-making skills in a controlled environment. Simulator instructors, often experienced pilots or training personnel, conduct these sessions.

5. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Pilots must be trained on the company’s standard operating procedures, which outline the specific steps and protocols to be followed during various flight phases, emergencies, and abnormal situations. The training department or designated instructors are responsible for providing this training.

6. Line training: Line training involves flying under the supervision of a qualified line training captain or instructor to gain practical experience and familiarize oneself with the company’s operational environment. Line training captains or designated instructors perform this task.

7. Safety and emergency procedures: Pilots must receive comprehensive training on safety and emergency procedures, including evacuation drills, fire suppression, first aid, and emergency equipment usage. The training department, along with safety personnel, typically conducts this training.

8. Navigation and flight planning: Pilots need to be trained on navigation techniques, flight planning, and the use of navigation aids and charts. This training ensures they can plan and execute flights efficiently and safely. The training department or designated instructors provide this training.

9. CRM and teamwork training: Crew Resource Management (CRM) training focuses on effective communication, decision-making, and teamwork within the cockpit. This training helps pilots work collaboratively with other crew members to ensure safe and efficient operations. The training department or designated CRM instructors conduct this training.

10. Regulatory compliance: Pilots must be trained on the specific regulations and requirements set by aviation authorities, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This training ensures pilots understand and comply with all applicable regulations. The training department, regulatory compliance personnel, or designated instructors handle this task.

11. Company-specific procedures and protocols: In addition to regulatory compliance, pilots need to be trained on company-specific procedures and protocols that may go beyond regulatory requirements. This includes understanding the company’s operational philosophy, customer service standards, and specific operational practices. The training department or designated instructors provide this training.

12. CRM and safety recurrent training: To maintain proficiency and stay updated on the latest safety practices, pilots undergo recurrent training on CRM and safety procedures periodically. This training ensures pilots remain aware of potential risks and can effectively mitigate them. The training department or designated CRM and safety instructors conduct this recurrent training.

13. Performance evaluations: Pilots undergo periodic performance evaluations to assess their skills, knowledge, and adherence to company procedures. These evaluations may include simulator checks, line checks, and knowledge assessments. The training department, chief pilot, or designated evaluators perform these evaluations.

14. Continuing education and professional development: Airlines often encourage pilots to engage in continuing education and professional development activities to enhance their skills and knowledge. This may include attending seminars, workshops, or specialized training programs. Pilots are responsible for seeking out these opportunities, and the company may provide guidance or support in identifying relevant programs.

15. Mentorship and support: To facilitate a smooth transition and ongoing growth, assigning a mentor or providing access to a support network can be beneficial for new pilots. Mentors, often experienced pilots within the company, can offer guidance, share their experiences, and provide support throughout the onboarding process and beyond. The HR department or designated mentorship coordinators can facilitate this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Regional Airline Pilot checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Regional Airline Pilot up to speed and working well in your Aviation team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.