Education and Training Requirements for a Commercial Pilot
Becoming a commercial pilot is a rigorous journey involving education, training, and certification. This article will explore the detailed requirements, including the necessary educational background, medical certification, and specialized training programs.
Overview of Education and Certification
To become a commercial pilot, one typically needs a high school diploma. However, obtaining a college degree is highly recommended, as it not only enhances your credentials but also opens up more opportunities for advanced training and employment. Key certifications required include a Commercial Pilot License, Instrument Rating, Multiengine Rating, and Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Additionally, a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) license is beneficial as it allows pilots to gain valuable experience and build flight hours through instruction.
Cost and Time Commitment
The financial investment in becoming a commercial pilot can be substantial. The training needed to obtain a multi-engine license alone can cost around $80,000. Beyond this, additional training for advanced ratings and certifications can incur even higher expenses. Employers may initially offer lower-paying jobs with regional carriers, which typically last for 3 to 5 years, as the pilot accumulates the necessary flight hours to qualify for a major airline. Alternatives like 11 years of active duty in the Air Force, Navy, or Army can train a pilot and provide better financial benefits, typically with a college degree required for officer training.
Basic Steps to Become a Commercial Pilot
The process to become a commercial pilot begins with obtaining a 3rd class medical certificate and earning a private pilot certificate. This step requires a minimum of 40 hours of instruction and flight time, although the national average is around 65 hours. Here are the subsequent steps necessary to become a fully certified commercial pilot:
Earn an Instrument Rating
After obtaining a private pilot certificate, pilots typically earn an instrument rating to attain the ability to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR). This involves acquiring at least 40 hours of simulated or actual instrument flight time.
Earn the Commercial Rating
The next step is to earn a Commercial Pilot Certificate with a Second Class Medical Certificate. The pilot must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of logged flight time with 100 hours as Pilot In Command (PIC).
Earn a Multi-Engine Rating
A Multi-Engine Rating is not strictly required by law, but it is highly recommended for airline jobs. It typically requires at least 10 hours of instruction and a flight test with the examiner.
Earn a CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) Certificate
A CFI certificate is not always required but is advantageous as it allows pilots to teach and earn flight hours. This involves a knowledge and practical flight test.
Earn a CFI-Flight Instructor Instrument Rating
Earning a CFI-Flight Instructor Instrument Rating involves additional training, which includes instrument flight instruction, and it will also require a knowledge and practical flight test.
Acquire 1,500 Total Flight Hours
The final step before applying to airlines is to accumulate a minimum of 1,500 total flight hours. This stringent requirement ensures that the pilot has the necessary experience for the challenges of commercial aviation.
Becoming a commercial pilot is a complex and demanding path, but the rewards of a high-paying career with good working conditions are significant for those who are dedicated and willing to invest the time and resources.