What Do You Need to Become an Airline Pilot?
Becoming an airline pilot is a rewarding and challenging career that requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and dedication. If you’re interested in pursuing this career path, here are the key steps and requirements you need to know:
Education Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree from a college or university that has approved airtransport programs is required. **
- Aviation Schools: Most airlines require cadets to attend a federal aviation administration (FAA)-approved flight school program.
- Pursue a degree in subjects like:
- Aeronautical Science or Aviation Management
- Aerospace Engineering or Physics
Licensing and Training
- Private Pilot License (PPL): Hold a private pilot license (PPL) with a minimum of 40 hours of flight training, including 20 hours of flight training with a certified flight instructor (CFIG)
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): Hold a commercial pilot license (CPL) with a minimum of 250 hours of flight time, including 100 hours of cross-country flight time. **
- Multi-engine Rating: Hold a multi-engine rating, allowing you to fly multi-engine aircraft
- Instrument Rating: Hold an instrument rating (IR), also known as an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) rating
Experience and Requirements for Airline Pilots
- Airline-type Rating: Hold an air carrier pilot type rating specific to the aircraft you intend to fly (e.g., B737-MAX or A320-BLEND)
- Recency Requirements: Maintain a minimum of 30 hours of flight time in the airline category* within the past 365 days to stay current **
Physical and Psychological Requirements
- Flight Physical Exam: Pass regular flight physical exams (FPEs) by a designated aviation medical examiner (DAME)
- Eye Test: pass an eye test with glasses or contacts if needed)
- Psychological evaluations: Undergo regular mental health evaluations to ensure flight safety and mental well-being
Airline Specifications and Requirements
- Airline-specific requirements:
- Boeing or Airbus-specific types ratings: For example, B737-MAX or A320-BBLEND.
- Aircraft-specific crew resource management (CRM) training: Some airlines might require additional CRM training unique to their aircraft type).
- Crew members’ personal and professional profile:
- Criminal record checks
- Credit checks
- Professional and personal references checked
Career Advancements and Career Development
- Professional development: Pilots need to maintain minimum flight hours and training per year
- Annual recurrent training: Attend repeated training and checkrides every 12-13 months
- Long-term goal setting: Align your training and career developments with the airline’s organizational goals
Table for Airline Pilot Requirements in the US
| Characteristic | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Licensing | FAA-approved CPL, Multi-Engine Rating, Instrument Rating |
| Experience | min. 250 hours cross-country flight time |
| Airline-type Rating | Air carrier pilot type rating specific to aircraft |
| Recency | min. 30 hours of air carrier pilot flight time/year |
| Physical | Fit for flight physical exam every 12-18 months |
| Psychological | MHA mental health evaluations with regular frequency |
| airline-specific requirements | Air carrier pilot type rating, Specific CRM training |
Wrapping it Up
The path to becoming an airline pilot requires dedication, motivation, and a clear vision. While this article lists the essential requirements, be prepared for the rigorous learning process and ongoing training associated with this demanding profession.
Tips for Success in Becoming an Airline Pilot
- Consistency and perseverance: A consistent effort to maintain certification and ongoing training
- Clear communication: Adapt to complex situations and assertive communication with colleagues and passengers
- Physical and mental Well-being: Prioritize lifestyle choices, including exercise and healthy eating options
- Networking connections: Connect with industry networks, pilots, and influencers to expand knowledge and skillset **
By summarizing these requirements and adhering to the necessary pathways, aspiring airline pilots are well-prepared to realize their career goals. Make sure to stay informed with the ever-changing aviation regulation landscape to ensure your expertise remains competitive.
