The thread on Reddit titled “Pilots of Reddit, what are some dark secrets in your work?” exposes some eye-opening truths about the aviation industry, ranging from dangerous working conditions to mental health challenges. Pilots share stories of taking risky jobs in remote locations like Papua New Guinea and the Canadian Arctic, often flying unsafe planes to accumulate the required flight hours for more lucrative jobs. One user recounts their friend flying in Papua New Guinea, where safety standards are lax, resulting in the tragic deaths of fellow pilots due to substandard runways and poorly maintained planes. Others echo these concerns, discussing how young pilots are often forced into risky roles with low pay, such as crop dusting or flying for parachute jumpers, just to meet the required flight hours.

The thread also reveals a darker side to pilot pay. Several users note the manipulative nature of hourly pay systems in commercial airlines, while others praise salary-based systems. One Canadian bush pilot shared his experience, recounting the years he spent flying in the Canadian Arctic, sleeping on a cot in a hangar and barely scraping by on minimal pay.

In a surprising twist, some pilots admit to flying their planes using their knees while texting or browsing for podcasts. Although humorous, this casual revelation speaks to the increasing pressure on pilots and the reality of multitasking in the cockpit.

Another concerning aspect discussed is the mental health of pilots. The nature of the profession discourages pilots from seeking mental health support, as any admission of mental health struggles could lead to job loss. Several users mention that pilots are required to pass regular medical exams to maintain their licences, and any signs of depression or mental health concerns can disqualify them from flying. This results in many pilots concealing their issues, potentially leading to catastrophic outcomes.

The thread also highlights how aviation disasters are more common than people realise, with many near misses occurring daily. Although aviation is still one of the safest modes of transport, the realities behind the scenes tell a different story.

One of the more disturbing confessions reveals how pilots, in some cases, have been forced to downplay mental health concerns to avoid losing their licences. For instance, a Canadian airline’s hiring process includes extensive questioning about mental health, which can result in immediate disqualification if anything unusual is admitted. Pilots are understandably reluctant to disclose any mental health struggles, fearing it will end their careers after investing significant money and time in their training.

In summary, the thread paints a picture of an industry where pilots are often placed in precarious positions just to advance their careers. From dangerous flight conditions to the suppression of mental health issues, the Reddit thread provides a chilling insight into the realities pilots face behind the scenes, leaving the public questioning the glamour and safety of the aviation world.