The 10 most frequently asked questions from pilots considering ACMI

Airlines today are turning to Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) flying to increase their operational flexibility for seasonal changes in demand for air travel. This flying gives crewmembers new experiences through supplementing the capability of existing airlines’ route networks and providing charter flights to new and unique parts of the world. While there are differences to this type of flying from conventional airline operations, Kristina Mateikaite Riepsiene, Head of Crew Recruitment at Avion Express, a leading ACMI provider, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about what flying for an ACMI provider is like.

What is the nature of ACMI operations, and how do they differ from traditional airlines?

ACMI operators provide aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance to other airlines on a contract basis, offering greater flexibility than traditional carriers. Unlike traditional commercial flights, ACMI operations are tailored to meet fluctuating market demand, which can result in frequent changes in routes and destinations. For example, you might fly in Europe one day and in Mexico or Asia the next. This dynamic structure allows pilots to see more of the world and experience diverse cultures.

What is the typical work schedule or roster?

We have a fixed commuting roster pattern. Our standard pattern is based on 20 days/10 days including positioning at home. Depending on the seasons and areas where pilots live and operate, there can be different options available.

Will I fly internationally, and what destinations can I expect?

Yes! It's a real possibility. Given the global nature of ACMI operations, the client for the operation will tell us and determine the number of international operations required. However, Avion Express operates in multiple countries in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America.

What are the travel and accommodation arrangements during assignments?

ACMI pilots frequently travel internationally, and they often ask about who covers travel costs and how accommodation is handled during assignments. Typically, the ACMI company takes care of all travel and accommodation arrangements for pilots during their rotations away from home. This includes flights, hotels, and transportation, ensuring pilots don’t have to manage these logistics themselves. The goal is to allow pilots to focus on their duties while the company handles all necessary arrangements.

Can I choose my own base?

Available bases are a result of our customer’s operational needs, and these needs will change depending on the season. Because of the dynamic nature of ACMI flying, it is difficult to guarantee that pilots can choose their own bases. However, we will consider preferences when bases are assigned.

Can a pilot get a home base?

Operational needs will be the priority, and given the nature of ACMI flying, a commute to work will be a part of the job. If our customers are in your home country and have a need to fly to your home airport, we will be happy to consider this in our scheduling and base assignments.

Do ACMI companies only have seasonal contracts for pilots?

Our operations run year-round across various regions of the world, which is why we do not offer seasonal contracts. Even though we are based in Europe, it doesn’t mean we fly exclusively within the European region. During the winter season, when operations in Europe typically slow down, our pilots are likely to fly in other regions, such as Asia or South America, where demand is higher at that time.

What are the opportunities for career progression and training?

We value growth and we want to keep people. In recent years we had around 20 captain upgrades and many opportunities for pilots to take on additional duties such as ground instructor and type-rating instructors in the training department or even office.

What is the recruitment and assessment process like?

A large portion of our selection process is virtual, including online tests and interviews. After the tests are completed and interviews conducted, simulator assessments may take place using our dedicated simulator in Vilnius.

What is the compensation structure?

Compensation, including payment, bonuses, and benefits, is a frequent concern. We offer fixed monthly payment, regardless of how many flight hours pilots conduct. Additionally, they get a block-hour payment for every hour flown.