Kalitta Air Pilot Gouge

Format: Virtual

Sections: AON, Virtual Interview

Dress: Dark suit, white shirt, plain tie. Conservative and professional.

Introduction

Interviewers are typically one HR representative, the Chief Pilot, and sometimes a line captain or Director of Training. The atmosphere is professional but laid-back. Many candidates report that interviewers are friendly, supportive, and genuinely interested in your success.

Interviews are usually virtual over Teams, lasting 10–20 minutes, depending on the panel and candidate’s experience. Sometimes the interviewers are late, so do not panic.

HR

Expect 2–5 HR-style questions. The focus is on professionalism, teamwork, decision-making, leadership, conflict resolution, and motivation. Follow-up questions are common.

Common HR Questions

• Tell me about yourself.

• Review your past work and what you learned from each job.

• What are your goals in aviation?

• Are you computer literate?

• Tell us about a time you had a conflict at work.

• How did you get into flying?

• Are you comfortable flying into challenging or potentially hazardous areas? (e.g., Middle East war zones)

• Tell us about your career.

• Why Kalitta?

Tips

• Use the START method (Situation, Task, Action, Result, Takeaway) when describing experiences.

• Be honest, reflective, and aviation-focused.

• They are looking for professionalism and composure rather than perfection.

• Maintain calm even if interviewers stay quiet during your answers.

Technical

Kalitta focuses on experience-appropriate technical questions, including scenarios a line pilot could encounter. This is not a trick test but tests sound judgment and Part 121 fundamentals.

Common Technical Questions

• What would you do if you lost #4 hydraulics on a long overwater flight? (e.g., Guam to Hong Kong)

• What would you do if you lost an engine mid-flight? (e.g., Puerto Rico to Miami)

• Explain your experience with specific aircraft and avionics systems.

Schedule & Training

Kalitta operates a 16-on / 15-off schedule. Candidates are asked if they are comfortable with international flying and flexible scheduling.

Some candidates are asked about AQP training. Be ready to discuss your experience with training and checkrides.

Wrap-Up

Expect closing questions such as:

• Why Kalitta?

• Any checkride failures?

• Any incidents, accidents, or terminations?

Keep answers honest, concise, and professional. Candidates consistently report that Kalitta’s interviews are straightforward, predictable, and fair, with a strong emphasis on fit and professionalism over obscure technical knowledge.