Virtually all commercial pilots around the world speak English, as it is the universally accepted language for international aviation.

Most pilots use the phonetic alphabet, and terms like “Roger” originated with pilots. However, in the modern phonetic alphabet, “Roger” has been replaced by “Romeo.”

Pilots are usually not permitted to have beards because facial hair can interfere with the proper seal of an oxygen mask in emergencies.

It’s not uncommon for one pilot to nap while the other flies the plane, especially on long-haul flights.

The two pilots onboard will typically eat different meals to avoid both getting food poisoning from the same dish.

Pilots are required to retire by age 65 due to safety regulations.

Pilots must regularly undergo medical exams to ensure they are fit to fly, and these evaluations become more frequent and stringent after age 40.

The captain always sits on the left side when flying the plane.

Pilots often receive good hotel perks and discounts, both during and outside of flights.

Some flight hours can be logged during virtual simulator training, especially when pilots are in training or re-certifying.

Although many pilots use autopilot, it cannot be used during takeoffs, landings, or in response to unexpected events.

Pilots are trained to survive various emergency scenarios, including crash landings, water ditching, jungle survival, and cold weather survival.

Pilots do not always fly the same aircraft; however, they must be certified to operate each specific type of plane they fly.

If a pilot consumes even a single sip of alcohol, they are prohibited from flying for at least 8 hours.

Pilots are also trained to handle bird strikes, which can cause serious issues, including engine failure.

It’s common for pilots to be paid only for the hours they are actively flying, meaning they may not earn money while the plane is on the ground.

Modern planes are equipped with an ILS (Instrument Landing System), which allows pilots to land even when visibility is severely reduced, such as in heavy fog.

A “deadhead” pilot is a pilot traveling as a passenger—usually to or from a duty assignment—so they can replace another pilot at their destination.

Before GPS technology, pilots sometimes navigated using the stars, much like ancient sailors.

Although modern airplanes are designed to withstand lightning strikes, pilots are instructed to avoid thunderstorms by a wide margin for safety.