No, pilots typically do not fly every day. Their schedules depend on various factors, including the type of operation (airline, cargo, charter, etc.), regulations, and their seniority. Here's a breakdown:
Flight Hours: Regulations often limit pilots to a maximum of 100 flight hours per month and 1,000 hours per year to ensure safety.
Work Schedules: Pilots may work a few consecutive days followed by several days off. Long-haul pilots may have fewer flights but longer layovers, while short-haul pilots might have multiple flights per day.
Schedules can vary widely depending on demand. They might have busy periods followed by lighter ones.
They often fly based on their employer’s needs, which can lead to irregular schedules.
They may fly only when there are jobs available, or for personal reasons.
Rest periods and time off are strictly regulated to prevent fatigue and ensure safety.