It’s safe to say that most people, when they were young, dreamed about someday becoming a pilot, among all the other occupations children imagine themselves in as they grow into maturity. But as they reach the age when choosing a career path becomes a necessity, most abandon the idea as being too impractical, or just not right for them, for whatever reason.

However, there are good reasons these days to consider a career in aviation. As a matter of fact, it’s one of the best of times to do so. Here are five reasons why...

Pilots are in demand. There is currently a severe shortage of pilots, and the problem is global. There are many reasons for this, but chief among them are high levels of pilot retirement and the expansion of the aviation industry in all sectors. And this situation is expected to last many years into the future.

Stable employment and salary. Aviation is an expanding economic sector, and has been increasing on average 5% annually since 1964. Salaries can be low for new pilots just starting out, but with experience they grow to be quite high.

Variety of positions. One doesn’t have to be an airline pilot. Most start out as flight instructors, and many choose to remain in that field, but there are many other options including air cargo, sightseeing tours, aerial survey work, and the military.

You’re technically minded. Training to be a pilot involves intensive study in many different disciplines, including science, aeronautics, meteorology, and navigation. If you like solving problems, you’ll enjoy being a pilot.

Love of flying. Most pilots have wanted to fly since they were young, but not all start out that way. Some didn’t discover a love of the craft until they took a ride with a friend or an introductory flight at an airport. Aviation is a career that you can truly learn to love.