Ask an Aviation Recruiter, Aviation Career Advice, Summer 2026 Edition
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Summer is one of the busiest periods in the aviation calendar, with airlines operating at full capacity and recruitment continuing across many areas of the industry.
Whether you're looking to make a move before the year's end or planning your longer-term career goals, having the right guidance and preparation can make all the difference.
In this Summer edition of Ask an Aviation Recruiter, Senior Recruitment Resourcer Ginny shares practical advice and honest insights to help you navigate your aviation career with clarity and confidence.
Is summer a good time to make a move in aviation?
Absolutely. A lot of people assume they’ve missed their chance once summer arrives because airlines have already recruited for the peak season, but that’s not always the case. Recruitment continues throughout the year, and we still see plenty of opportunities come up over the summer.
The main thing is to be ready. Make sure your CV is up to date, your licences and documents are current, and you're registered with specialist recruiters. That way, when the right opportunity comes along, you're in a position to move quickly.
There's never really a perfect time to change jobs in aviation. It comes down to your own circumstances and being ready when the right role comes along.
What should I look for when choosing an aviation recruiter?
The most important thing is finding a recruiter who works exclusively in aviation. It's a specialist industry with licensing, Type-Ratings, operator requirements, and so much more. A generalist recruiter is unlikely to have that knowledge. To get the most out of your partnership, you want a recruiter who understands the market, knows the operators, and can give you honest, realistic advice about where you stand.
Relationships matter too. Established recruiters have built trust with operators over time, which means when they put your application forward, it carries weight. You're not just another CV in their inbox, you're being recommended by someone the operator already knows and trusts.
It's also worth registering rather than just browsing job boards. Sometimes roles aren’t publicly advertised, and being registered with the right recruiter means you hear about them first.
Do a bit of research before you commit; look at how long they've been operating, read testimonials, and get a feel for how they communicate. Seek a recruiter who's invested in the right outcome for you, not just a quick placement.
This year marks our 20th anniversary, and we're excited to continue building on two decades of success in aviation recruitment. Register with AeroProfessional here.
Taking the time to find the right recruiter is worth it. A specialist who understands the industry, knows the operators, and is genuinely invested in finding the right opportunity for you can make a significant difference to your career.
How do I know if my CV is working for me?
If you're sending applications and not hearing back, your CV is usually the first place to look.
The basics matter; make sure your licences, Type-Ratings, total hours, and experience are all there and easy to find. We often review a large number of applications, so presenting the key information clearly helps us quickly understand your suitability for the role.
Tailoring also makes a bigger difference than most people think. A generic CV is easy to spot. If you're applying for a specific role, lead with what's most relevant to that role. It shows you've paid attention and makes our job easier.
If you have gaps in your employment history, don't leave them unexplained. A brief, honest explanation removes any uncertainty, it's always better to address it yourself than leave your recruiter guessing.
If you're not sure whether your CV is working, ask. A good recruiter will tell you honestly what's landing and what isn't.
How do I know when I've found the right opportunity?
A role being available doesn't automatically make it the right one. It's worth taking a moment to ask whether it actually moves you in the direction you want to go, not just filling a gap.
Culture is a big one that people often overlook. Think about the kind of operator you'll genuinely thrive with; the pace, the environment, the values. It's not just about who's hiring.
Explore the different airline cultures and how to assess the right one for your career with our article.
The practicalities need to align too. Location, contract type, schedule, and progression matter. Don't get so caught up in the excitement of an offer that you skip past the details.
Timing is something I'd always encourage candidates to be honest with themselves about. Are your documents in order? Do you meet the requirements? Do you have the flexibility to commit to a transition right now? The right role at the wrong time can still be a difficult experience. If you're unsure, talk it through with your recruiter.
When everything comes together; the role, the operator, the timing, and the practicalities, you'll know. It won't always be perfect, but when the important things align, that's usually a good sign.
In Summary
Aviation careers don't just happen, they take planning, the right support, and knowing what you're looking for. Whether you're making a move this summer, getting your CV in shape, or just keeping an eye on what's out there, the most important thing is to be ready when the right opportunity comes along. Get the foundations right, and the rest will follow.
