Get Ready for Your Pilot Aptitude Test

Ever wondered what it’d be like to train as a Pilot? We teamed up with Jennifer Feldman from JobTestPrep for their insight into what it takes to be able to take off…

“Let’s face the facts, as a pilot, there is a lot of information you need to learn. Learning airport codes, abbreviations, runway lengths, and other airport information is just the tip of the iceberg. Any job that requires a lot of knowledge and responsibility does not come easy. As a prerequisite to landing the pilot job of your dream, candidates will be required to take a pilot aptitude test. It does not matter if you are new to the field or an experienced pilot—you should expect to take a pilot aptitude test during the recruitment process.

What is a Pilot Aptitude Test?

Pilot assessments are a set of metrics used by employers to make sure a candidate is fit for the job. They do not measure your current knowledge, but rather your potential aptitude for the job. To get hired as a pilot you must pass this assessment. The exact combination of aptitude tests you will encounter differs from airline to airline, but here are some of the most common tests you will likely encounter:

• Numerical Reasoning

Numerical reasoning tests assess a pilot’s ability to answer questions related to numerical information and data sets. This portion is especially important because pilots are required to make quick calculations in their daily work.

• Verbal Reasoning

Verbal reasoning tests measure a pilot’s capability to comprehend and deduce information from written information. Pilots are often required to make conclusions based on written information.

• Spatial Reasoning and Orientation

Airlines are looking for candidates with strong spatial reasoning and orientation skills. In the spatial reasoning portion, you will be asked to answer questions related to two and three-dimensional shapes, related to mirror images and perspectives. 

• Mechanical Reasoning

The mechanical reasoning portion evaluates a pilot’s technical knowledge, understanding of physical concepts, and mechanics. You should be able to answer questions in related to mechanical diagrams and hardware.

• Diagrammatic or Logical Reasoning

Diagrammatic or logical reasoning tests measure a pilot’s comprehension of non-verbal information and ability to integrate this information in order to problem-solve.

• Pilot Personality Test

Some airlines require all applicants take a personality test. This is used to ensure that you have the correct personality match for a high stress pilot job. It is important that pilots be able to keep their cool and act quickly when needed.

How Can I Prepare for the Pilot Aptitude Test?

Before you start preparing, it is important to note that every airline uses a different set of exams. EasyJet, Jet2, Emirates, Qantas, and British Airways all use assessments provided by test providers to screen their candidates. A candidate can only move forward in the recruitment process if he or she receives a passing score on the aptitude tests. Make sure you are ready for the exam by preparing with JobTestPrep’s practice pilot aptitude test. The pilot aptitude pack includes over 140 different online practice aptitude tests. It also features practice materials, study guides, and video tutorials on numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, nonverbal reasoning, spatial reasoning, mechanical reasoning, and technical reasoning.”

So, think you have what it takes? Let us know below if this has whet your appetite for a life in the skies!