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How do commercial pilot ranks work?

Commercial Pilot Ranks are shown by Stripes

Commercial pilot rank is rooted in military history. In the world of aviation, whether in today’s military or civilian sector, rank and uniform have always played a crucial role in defining roles, responsibilities, and status. From the cockpit of an Air Force or Navy fighter jet to the flight deck of major airlines, a clear hierarchy ensures safety, leadership, and coordination. Stripes, Insignia, and Symbolism Airline pilot uniforms are more than just attire. They symbolize authority and professionalism. Pilot epaulettes (or epaulets), worn on the shoulder, feature stripes (bars) that indicate rank: Second Officer – Relief or cruise pilot Assists with monitoring systems and flying duties, often during cruise phases on long-haul flights; typically the most junior flight deck member. … Read more

What is a checkride for pilots?

Think of the checkride as a final exam for pilots! Read on to learn what they are, how to prepare, and what to do if you need to retake the checkride. Practical Pilot Exam For a pilot, few events are more satisfying than passing a checkride and earning that certification! A pilot checkride is the FAA practical test required to receive a specific pilot certificate or rating, such as the Private Pilot License (PPL) or Instrument Rating (IR). This practical evaluation serves as a final exam following months of flight training. Under the supervision of a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), pilots practice maneuvers, prepare study materials, and build proficiency before being endorsed for the test. However, it’s the Designated Pilot … Read more

What is a Pitot Tube?

A simple definition for a pitot tube is a device used to measure the speed of a fluid, usually air. Pitot tubes are crucial for aircraft. They feed data to the airspeed indicator, which informs pilots as to how fast they’re flying relative to the surrounding air. A blocked or malfunctioning pitot tube can lead to incorrect readings, which can create serious flight safety risks. Pitot tubes are an important part on every aircraft. Understanding How a Pitot Tube Works Understanding the Two Key Openings in a Prandtl Pitot Tube: Front-facing (impact) opening (hole): Also known as the ram air inlet, this measures total pressure (also called stagnation pressure). This is the pressure felt when air is brought to a … Read more

Aircraft Lighting: Types, Importance, and Regulations

Aircraft lighting plays a critical role in aviation safety and operation. Lighting helps pilots navigate and communicate. Proper lighting is required to comply with FAA and ICAO regulations. From anti-collision lights to position lights, each system serves a unique function. Proper lights on aircraft ensure both commercial pilots and military aviators can fly safely in all conditions. In this guide, I examine the history, importance, and aspects of aircraft lighting while providing a guide for aviation enthusiasts, mechanics, and pilots. Types of Aircraft Lights and Their Roles There are two main types of aircraft lighting: interior and exterior. Interior lighting improves visibility inside the cabin and cockpit, and exterior lighting enhances safety by making aircraft visible in the sky and … Read more

Ultralight Aircraft: Planes You Can Fly Without a Pilot License

What is an Ultralight Aircraft? A true ultralight aircraft is a lightweight, small, and typically single-seat airplane designed for recreational flying. People like these aircraft for their affordability, ease of use, and the fact that many models do not require a pilot license. However, in the USA, ultralight aircraft must meet specific FAA regulations. For example, a true ultralight cannot exceed the maximum empty weight of 254 pounds or a top speed of 63 mph (55 k/ph). Although we don’t train ultralight pilots here at Epic, I am often asked about them and thought it would be helpful to address them in this article. Under FAA Part 103 regulations, ultralight aircraft are subject to specific requirements to qualify as true … Read more

Airline Pilot Salary: Comprehensive Breakdown & Industry Comparison 2025

How much do pilots make? Based on current data (next update: May 2026), the annual median airline pilot salary is $226,600 and the average is over $200,000. Pay typically ranges from around $90,000 for new first officers to $450,000 for senior captains at major airlines. Earnings vary by airline, aircraft type, routes flown, credentials, experience, job title, and union agreements. Read the complete breakdown below by airline, rank, and experience below. Overview of Airline Pilot Salaries and Influencing Factors Pilot pay varies for many reasons, such as the airline, rank, and years of service, with the average salary over $200,000 in 2025. People choose an airline pilot career for a variety of reasons, first and foremost being their love of … Read more

What is a Squawk Box in Aviation?

A “squawk box” is an essential piece of aviation communications. Its technical name is a transponder. It’s a radio frequency identification (RFID) device that sends a signal, or “squawk,” to air traffic control (ATC) radar systems. The squawk helps controllers identify each radar blip as a specific flight. It is a critical tool that communicates between an aircraft and ATC. The transponder helps identify the aircraft, transmits its altitude, and alerts ATC to emergencies. Both pilots and controllers must understand how a squawk box works and its unique role in maintaining safe flight operations. In this article, I’ll share the origin and functions of a squawk box, the meaning of squawk codes, and practical applications. I’ll also include related aviation … Read more