Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) parse resumes and look for keywords and structured data. For a Charter Pilot (Airline), ATS often filter out resumes that lack required certifications or use odd formatting.

Use clear section titles like Work Experience, Education, and Certifications. Keep contact info at the top in plain text so ATS can read it.

• List key certifications and ratings (FAA ATP, commercial pilot, CFI, multi-engine land).
• Include operational keywords (Part 135, IFR, VFR, SOP, CRM, MEL, dispatch coordination).
• Mention systems and tools (FlightAware, ForeFlight, Garmin avionics, weight and balance software).

Avoid complex layout elements. Do not use tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, or graphics. ATS may skip those parts or scramble the text.

Choose standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Use .docx or simple PDF. Don’t upload heavily designed files or unusual file types.

Common mistakes include swapping exact keywords for creative synonyms. For example, don’t write "aircraft operations specialist" instead of "Charter Pilot" if the job asks for that title. Avoid putting critical items only on a scanned certificate image.

Also avoid hiding dates or job titles in headers or footers. ATS may ignore those fields. Finally, always mirror the job description wording where it fits naturally. That helps your resume pass the first filter.

Pick a clean, professional template for a Charter Pilot role. Use a reverse-chronological layout so your recent flight experience appears first and recruiters can scan your hours and ratings quickly.

Keep length to one page if you have under 10 years of charter flying. Use two pages only if you have many type ratings, long flight logs, or managerial flight operations experience.

Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt so headings stand out without crowding the page.

Give yourself breathing room. Use consistent margins and 1.0–1.15 line spacing. Use bullet lists for duties and achievements so you highlight flight hours, type ratings, and safety records clearly.

Label sections with standard headings like "Contact," "Certifications," "Flight Experience," "Technical Skills," and "Education." Put required items like ATP, type ratings, and current medical class near the top.

Avoid complex designs. Fancy columns, embedded graphics, or unusual fonts can confuse ATS and hiring managers. Keep it simple so your flight hours and qualifications parse correctly.

Watch common mistakes. Don’t bury your total PIC hours deep in text. Don’t mix fonts or use tiny margins to squeeze text. Don’t include irrelevant hobbies or a photo unless the operator asks for one.

Proofread for consistent date formats, consistent tense, and exact aircraft model names. That small polish improves trust when operators check your logbook or references.

Writing a tailored cover letter for a Charter Pilot (Airline) helps you connect your flight hours and safety record to the employer's needs. A letter shows your fit and explains things your resume cannot, like why you want this specific role.

Key sections

• Header: Put your contact details, the company's name, and the date.
• Opening: Name the Charter Pilot role you want. Say why the company appeals to you. Mention your strongest qualification or where you found the posting.
• Body: Use one to three short paragraphs to link your experience to the job. Highlight flight hours, ratings, and aircraft types you fly. Note safety records, training, and mission types. Add soft skills like communication, decision making, and teamwork. Use numbers when you can, like hours flown or incident-free flights. Match words from the listing so your letter echoes the job.
• Closing: Restate your interest in the role and the company. Say you can contribute immediately. Ask for an interview and thank the reader.

Keep your tone professional, confident, and friendly. Write as if you speak to one person. Use short sentences and simple words. Tailor each letter to the employer and avoid generic templates. Address the hiring team or manager if you know their name. Proofread for grammar, spelling, and clear facts about your ratings and hours.

One final tip: mention one concrete achievement or mission that shows judgment and results. That detail makes your letter feel real and memorable.

You're applying for a Charter Pilot (Airline) role, so recruiters will scan your resume for flight currency, certifications, and safety focus. Small slip-ups can knock you out of the running. Pay attention to clarity, required credentials, and clean formatting so you get past the first review.

I'll point out common mistakes pilots make on resumes and show quick ways to fix them. Use these tips to present your flight experience clearly and safely.

These FAQs and tips help you shape a Charter Pilot (Airline) resume that highlights flight experience, certifications, and safety focus. Use them to present your hours, ratings, and operational skills clearly so recruiters can see your fit quickly.