Your Pilot Career
5 Steps to Becoming a Professional Pilot
If you're thinking about becoming a pilot, whether as a hobby or a career, it's crucial to
understand the educational process and select the right path for you.
Career pilots can fly for various sectors, including commercial airlines, regional carriers,
charter companies, emergency services, search and rescue, and even local sightseeing or
agricultural aviation.
Job boards like JSFirm and indeed list numerous
pilot opportunities, but
all of these require advanced training and professional piloting skills.
A common question from potential students is what steps they need to take to become an airline
pilot. While there's plenty of information online, we’ve compiled a simple step-by-step guide
for clarity.
First, remember that becoming a commercial pilot involves more than just flying lessons. You'll
need to pass a 2nd Class medical certificate every 12 months and be proficient in English, the
international aviation language.
Training can begin at 18, and contrary to popular
belief, a
college degree isn't required. Once you're ready, you can take the FAA written exams and start
flying with a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI).
The course for a commercial pilot certificate is fairly standardized, though the quality of
training varies between flight schools. When choosing a school, balance cost-effective flight
time, quality instruction, and dedicated instructors. It’s important to thoroughly research your
options, talk to admissions professionals, and ask about any hidden fees.
All commercial pilots start as private pilots, mastering the basics in single-engine planes
(like the Cessna 152 or 172), using both conventional and advanced cockpits.
Training
involves
classroom instruction and in-flight practice, and you'll need at least 250 hours as a Pilot in
Command (PIC) to qualify for your commercial license. Your mental and physical abilities will
also be evaluated throughout the process.
Commercial Pilot Training Costs and Loans
Flight training can be expensive, so it’s essential to
shop around for the best value without compromising safety. Opting for cheaper training might
leave you underprepared for the demands of piloting.
Look for schools that offer
fixed-cost
training and job placement support, often partnered with airlines for post-graduation
interviews. Some schools hire their graduates as CFIs, allowing them to accumulate flight hours
while refining their skills.
When considering a school, consult with an Admissions Specialist to understand the true costs
and any financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships, or loans.
Step 1: Earn Your Private Pilot Certificate
You can pursue either a Part 141 or Part 61 training
program. Part 141 follows FAA-approved protocols, requiring fewer flight hours to earn your
license, making it quicker and more affordable. Part 61 offers more flexibility but demands more
flight time. Some airlines and foreign aviation authorities prefer Part 141, so discuss your
long-term goals with your school’s admissions team.
To earn a private pilot’s license, you must be at least 17, pass a medical exam, and complete a
minimum of 35 flight hours, including 5 hours of solo time. You’ll also need to pass a written
exam and a check ride.
A private pilot license allows you to fly passengers without
compensation, but to get paid, you’ll need a commercial license.
Step 2: Obtain Instrument and Multi-Engine Ratings
An instrument rating (IFR) teaches you how to fly in
low-visibility conditions using instruments rather than visual cues. A multi-engine rating
prepares you to handle multi-engine planes, a necessary skill for pilots aiming for an airline
career.
At Academy of Aviation, students gain hands-on experience in advanced aircraft
like the
Diamond DA42.
Step 3: Earn a Commercial Pilot Certificate
A commercial pilot certificate allows you to legally fly
for compensation. To earn this, students must log flight hours, pass medical and written exams,
and complete a check ride.
Regular physical exams and flight tests are required to
maintain the
license. Academy of Aviation prepares students for these exams through comprehensive,
Cessna-developed courses that mirror FAA tests.
Step 4: Become a Certified Flight Instructor
Earning Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) credentials is
a common route for pilots to gain flight experience while earning a living. You can teach both
private and commercial students, as well as specialize in instrument (CFII) or multi-engine
(MEI) instruction.
This not only builds flight hours but strengthens your expertise.
Step 5: Gain Experience and Reach 1,500 Flight Hours
After completing Academy of Aviation’s Career Pilot
program, graduates often work as CFIs to accumulate the required 1,500 flight hours for the
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
The ATP is the highest certification and qualifies
you to fly for major airlines. The school’s relationships with airlines and the experience of
your instructors are vital to your success.
When choosing a flight academy, evaluate factors such as the school’s aircraft, reputation, and
reviews. A well-reviewed school that responds to both positive and negative feedback
demonstrates commitment to student success.
The training path—whether under Part 61 or Part
141—is key to the quality of education you’ll receive.
Conclusion
Becoming a commercial pilot requires dedication, time,
and careful planning. Each certification—from private to commercial pilot to ATP—brings you
closer to flying for an airline. Along the way, many pilots earn money by instructing, flying
charters, or taking corporate and sightseeing jobs.
Ultimately, it’s the experience and flight
hours that shape your career.
With a Commercial Pilot’s License, a range of job opportunities open up—from flying for airlines, flying cargo,
to testing new aircraft or even emergency rescue.
