Qualifications

Years of training and experience are needed to acquire the technical skills and competency required to become a missionary pilot. Additionally, mission aviation organizations seek people who are well grounded in their Christian faith and walk, and who have a real desire to serve others. You may hear, “We’re looking for missionaries first, and pilots second.” Evidence of a growing relationship with the Lord and a heart for and history of service are usually expected.



Expect to need the following credentials:

* Medical Certificate Second Class

* Instrument Rating

* Commercial Pilot Certificate

* 300 to 500 hours logged pilot time


Organizations may have additional requirements such as Bible school or Bible training, a year or more working in an aircraft maintenance shop, and aircraft-specific training and experience for floatplanes, turbine aircraft, or helicopters.
Most mission aviation organizations also require their pilots to be aircraft mechanics in order to maintain aircraft in an airworthy condition, perform required inspections, and make field repairs, if necessary, at isolated airstrips.Read the MATA's Founder Letter