How to become a contract pilot?

How to Become a Contract Pilot?

As a contract pilot, you have the opportunity to fly for various companies, governments, and organizations, providing essential air services while enjoying the freedom of being your own boss. However, becoming a contract pilot requires a significant amount of training, experience, and dedication. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to become a contract pilot, highlighting the key requirements and considerations.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before starting your journey to become a contract pilot, you must meet the basic requirements:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a commercial pilot’s license.
• Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Medical Certificate: You must hold a valid medical certificate issued by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
• Language: You must be proficient in the language used in the country where you plan to fly.

Step 2: Obtain a Commercial Pilot’s License

To become a contract pilot, you need to hold a commercial pilot’s license. Here are the steps to obtain one:

• Private Pilot’s License (PPL): Start by obtaining a private pilot’s license, which requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight training, including 20 hours of flight training with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight time.
• Instrument Rating (IR): To become a commercial pilot, you need to hold an instrument rating, which requires an additional 15 hours of instrument flight training.
• Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL): Once you have completed the above requirements, you can apply for a commercial pilot’s license.

Step 3: Build Flight Experience

As a contract pilot, you need to have a significant amount of flight experience. Here are some tips to help you build your experience:

• Flight Hours: Accumulate a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time, including 500 hours of cross-country flight time, 100 hours of night flight time, and 75 hours of instrument flying time.
• Type Ratings: Obtain type ratings for various aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 or the Airbus A320.
• Multi-Engine Experience: Gain experience flying multi-engine aircraft, such as the Beechcraft King Air or the Pilatus PC-12.

Step 4: Network and Join Professional Associations

As a contract pilot, it’s essential to network and join professional associations to stay updated on industry developments and job opportunities:

• Professional Associations: Join associations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Federation of Air Line Pilots Associations (IFALPA), and the National Air Transportation Association (NATA).
• Networking: Attend industry events, conferences, and job fairs to meet potential employers and learn about job opportunities.

Step 5: Consider Specialized Training

Some contract pilots may require specialized training, such as:

• Flight Instructor Training: Consider becoming a flight instructor to gain experience and build your resume.
• Type-Specific Training: Obtain type-specific training for specific aircraft, such as the Boeing 787 or the Airbus A350.
• Safety Management System (SMS) Training: Consider obtaining SMS training to stay up-to-date with industry best practices.

Step 6: Obtain a Type Rating

A type rating is a mandatory requirement for contract pilots. Here are some tips to obtain a type rating:

• Aircraft Types: Familiarize yourself with various aircraft types, such as the Boeing 737, the Airbus A320, or the Bombardier CRJ.
• Type Rating Training: Complete type rating training with a certified flight school or training organization.
• Type Rating Exams: Pass the type rating exams to demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency.

Step 7: Stay Current with Recurrent Training

As a contract pilot, you need to stay current with recurrent training to maintain your certifications and stay up-to-date with industry developments:

• Recurrent Training: Complete recurrent training every 6-12 months to maintain your certifications.
• Type-Specific Recurrent Training: Complete type-specific recurrent training to stay current with industry developments.

Conclusion

Becoming a contract pilot requires a significant amount of training, experience, and dedication. By following the steps outlined above, you can increase your chances of success and build a successful career as a contract pilot.

Table: Requirements for a Commercial Pilot’s License

Table: Recommended Flight Experience

Table: Recommended Type Ratings

Table: Recommended Recurrent Training

By following the steps outlined above and staying current with industry developments, you can build a successful career as a contract pilot. Remember to always prioritize safety, stay professional, and maintain your certifications to ensure a successful and rewarding career.