Pilot Hiring and Process
Ready to take flight? Delta’s premier global network and nationally recognized culture make it one of the most sought-after airlines to work for. Here’s what to expect as an experienced pilot during your application process.
1. Initial Application
All candidates must apply for a Delta Pilot position using Airline Apps.
2. Application Review
Each application is reviewed by two members of our Application Review Team.
3. Interview Process
Competitive candidates must pass an online assessment, a panel interview and final evaluations to receive a Conditional Job Offer.
4. Pre-Employment Screenings
The final step before starting training is to complete all required pre-employment screenings.
5. Delta Indoctrination
New pilots experience a two-week indoctrination process that lays out the foundation for operational policies, and an introduction to our culture.
6. Wing Ceremony
Receive your Delta wings in a celebratory ceremony with your family and your Delta leaders.
7. Training
All pilots must pass the FAA-approved Initial Qualification Curricula. Delta's Advanced Qualification Program (AQP) features state-of-the-art full motion flight simulators and flight training devices. Our pilots benefit from interactive training resources tailored to their experience level, immersive leadership and crew resource management training, and support from highly-experienced flight instructors.
8. Take Flight
Connect our people and customers to the world as a new Delta pilot.
Application and Interview Tips
Helpful Tips for Your Application
- Include all flight training, licenses and ratings in the education and professional development section of the application.
- Driving records must include any infractions in which you were found guilty, or that involved payment or fines, court appearances, and/or assessed penalties.
- Update your application every month or two to show that you are still interested.
- On the application include every job you’ve held, and all schools attended, starting with high school and check for gaps in unemployment or time off from school. Airline Apps provides an Applicant Timeline Tool for your use.
Helpful Tips for Your Interview
- Make sure logbooks are organized in a professional manner and to bring all original logbooks to your interview.
- Delta pilots are leaders and uphold these traits: Honesty, respect, tact, are proactive vs. reactive, willing to admit mistakes, open-minded, adaptive/flexible, self-motivated, interested in feedback and interested in self-improvement.
- Before your scheduled interview, Pilot Selection will send you an email with instructions on what to bring. Please make sure you read it carefully and bring everything it lists to the interview.
- Don’t forget to be yourself!