I remember hearing some time ago that there are two types of jobs: those where you have a shower before work; and those where you shower after work (or both). I can tell you that military helicopter flying and probably airline flying, falls into the latter category. Of course, some people don't shower at all, but that's a different thread.
By this analogy, and the belief of many that we are just glorified drivers, some might suggest that piloting is a blue-collar job. If, however, you look at the duration and cost of training, the continuous assessment, the entry requirements and the potential rewards the classification is more obvious. It is clear to see that flying is a true 'profession' (as opposed to a job) and is therefore much more white than blue-collar.
Where do you think 'pilot' fits in?
1. Mechanic, waiter, manual labourer, farm hand, pole dancer
, etc.
2. Doctor, lawyer, engineer, military officer, police officer, etc.