1. You experience different cultures and habits

I think I’ve flown with about every nationality you can think of! Smooth Italians, complainy English and proud Americans! It’s all there!
Besides flying with different nationalities, what about the passengers, crew, groundstaff, or those that you meet on a layover. Indian hospitality, pretty Swedes, and hard working Germans!
Basically you get to experience a wide variety of cultures and habits that broaden your mind!

2. You are well trained to handle stress

You’ll stress when you’re flying with an engine on fire, the other pilot is dead, and there’s a gun to your head. At the same time. Other than that? You don’t really know what stress is. You’ve been well trained in the simulator and that really helps with everyday things!

3. You’ll be able to get along with all… Well… Most people

You’re stuck with another pilot for sometimes hours and hours without seeing anyone else. Hence you’re very laid back, and know how to have a nice conversation. There’s grumpy pilots on the job too, yes, but that doesn’t take away the fact that this made you more social!

4. You know how to plan properly

Things have to be prepared and planned before and during the flight. All this planning will make it seem like it’s second nature to you. You go on a trip somewhere? Everything will be planned within a second! Even the spontaneous moments are planned.

5. Flying leaves you with plenty time for other activities

Flying is awesome! But sometimes you need to get your mind of work. And there’s plenty of time for that. You’re only allowed to fly a certain amount of hours per month/year, depending on where you live. But even during the flying itself you can do plenty of other stuff. Normally you fly on autopilot. I’ve learned history, how to massage, an extra language, and now I’m reading a different book. All during the autopilot. And that’s just this year! And oh…I’m writing this from 37,000 feet now ;). Obviously you do keep an eye on the airplane!

6. You’re more confident!

People constantly ask you about your job because they think you’re awesome with your awesome job! And yes, this plays into the subconscious.

7. You know how to be a leader

Most airlines choose their first officers according to, is he capable as a captain? Does he have leadership and teamwork potential? And according to that, the first officer is being grown and educated by the company into this mindset. It’s an awesome quality to have !!!