The allure of becoming an airline pilot extends beyond the thrill of navigating the skies; it is a testament to one’s passion for aviation and a testament to the pursuit of a dream. This article takes an in-depth look at the multifaceted journey of transforming this dream into a reality, emphasizing not only the educational and technical aspects but also the development of character traits essential for success in this challenging profession.
While considering a career as an airline pilot, you want to start developing proper character. Consider the following points for development:
Resilience and Adaptability:
- The aviation industry is dynamic, requiring pilots to adapt to ever-changing conditions. Developing mental, physical and psychological resilience is key to overcoming challenges.
Effective Communication:
- Clear and concise communication is critical for cockpit coordination and interaction with air traffic control. Try to develop these skills while you are in high school.
Teamwork and Leadership:
- Pilots often work in crews; the ability to collaborate seamlessly and, when necessary, take on leadership roles is essential. Playing team sports and participating in competitions will help you to develop these skills.
Decision-Making Under Pressure:
- Pilots must make split-second decisions in high-stress situations. Cultivating a calm and rational approach is vital for a good pilot’s character development.
Ethical Conduct:
- Adhering to ethical standards and professional conduct is non-negotiable for building trust within the industry and among passengers. Airline pilots represent the pinnacle of aviation industry and need to serve not only as safe and reliable aircraft operators, but also the ambassadors of their airline and their profession. Developing the right ethical principles, from a young age, is paramount.
- Avoid breaking the law: even a small illegal infringement can end you dreams of becoming an airline pilot, as all airlines would not employ a former felon.
What education do I need to become an airline pilot?
The good news is that “starter airlines,” referring to regional carriers operating regional jets like CRJ-700/900 or ERJ-145/175 with a passenger capacity of under 75, typically do not require a full Bachelor’s degree. In the United States and Canada, none of the regional airlines impose a degree requirement; rather, a full Airline Transport Pilot License (we will cover ATP further) and a minimum of 1500 flight hours suffice for employment. While some airlines may express a preference for candidates holding both an ATP and a degree or at least being enrolled in a full BSc online program, it is crucial to note that such preferences are not obligatory. With the current pilot deficit, having or not having a degree rarely impacts a pilot’s chances of securing employment with regional airlines.
Concerning major airlines in the US or Canada, known as “Majors” that operate mid-range and wide-body jets like A320, B737, A330, B777, have recently dropped degree requirements. However, they are still preferred. Other major airlines, such as the ones operating in the Middle East (Emirates, Qatar, Etihad, etc) and Asia (Cathay Pacific, Asiana Airlines, Air Aisa, etc) do not require an aviation degree. Again, the emphasis is on the licenses, flight time and safety record.
While many major airlines may prefer candidates with a full degree, it is crucial to recognize that most do not make it a mandatory requirement. Consequently, during the initial stages of one’s career with “beginner airlines,” where jet experience is gained, taking advantage of free time to pursue a full Aviation BSc degree can be a prudent move. This can be accomplished in 1-2 years, at a fraction of the annual salary cost, through modern online learning technologies, providing a safety net for any potential future degree requirements in the ever-evolving aviation industry.
So, what education do you need to start your aviation career?
High School Education:
- A robust foundation in mathematics and physics forms the bedrock of a pilot’s understanding of aerodynamics.
- Emphasis on subjects that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills is paramount.
English Test: IELTS Academic with the score of 6.0 or higher is normally required for admission to flight training programs for international students. (Review all English certificates acceptable for training here >>>)
What flight training do I need to accomplish to become an airline pilot?
Once you finished your secondary education, such as high school (O-levels or A-levels) you can immediately advance to flight training in the US or Canada. Most flight schools do not require any specific grades, so as soon as you have your IELTS or TOEFL exams passed, showing a good command of English. Remember: the aviation training is all done in English – the international language of aviation. Your English level is of absolute paramount importance for the admission.
You will also need to pass the medical examination to get your Class 1 medical (read about the requirement here >>>)
The following phases of Flight Training and licenses need to be accomplished before you can advance to the next stage of your airline pilot career development:
Private Pilot License (PPL):
- Attaining a PPL from an accredited flight school involves not just clocking flight hours but also mastering the theoretical aspects.
- Ground school training is essential to grasp aviation regulations, navigation, and meteorology.
Instrument Rating:
- Delving deeper into flying solely by reference to instruments enhances a pilot’s situational awareness.
- A thorough understanding of navigation systems and procedures becomes crucial.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL):
- Accumulating a set number of flight hours, often around 250-300, is a prerequisite.
- CPL marks the transition from a hobbyist to a professional pilot, allowing for compensation for flying services.
- Airline Transport Pilot License is possible to get after accrual over 1500 hours of flight time, so you will have to come back to this stage after completion of the hour-building phase, explained below.
Multi-Engine Rating:
- Acquiring the skills to operate aircraft with multiple engines underscores a pilot’s versatility.
- Proficiency in managing complex systems becomes a hallmark.
Flight Instructor License:
- Flight instructor license is not a requirements, but 95% of future airline pilots get flight instructor license in order to safely and quickly build the required by the airlines flight time of 1500 hours. That’s an additional 1200-1300 hours on top of the hours required for Commercial Pilot License certification.
How to build flight experience to become an airline pilot?
The next important step, right after completion of flight license certifications, is to building flight experience. As noted earlier, most airlines want to see a pilot with significant flight time, at least 1500 hours, and a full ATPL. Such flight time can be achieved by International students by:
Working on an F-1 visa (US) or PGWP (Canada) program:
- work as a flight instructor up to 500-600 hours total time on light piston airplanes, then start looking for employment as a charter pilot on turbine airplanes. (Read about our Instructor Internships for foreign students in the United States and Canada)
- work as a commercial pilot, normally as a first officer, for a charter company flying such turbine airplanes as King Air C90, Beech 1900, Pilatus PC-12, Cessna Caravan 208, and so on, until you reach 1500 hours or more. (Read about how to find a job like that here >>>)
Becoming an airline pilot transcends the acquisition of technical skills; it is a journey that molds individuals into professionals with the character, resilience, and adaptability required to navigate the complexities of the aviation industry. Aspiring pilots must not only embrace the educational and training aspects but also commit to developing the traits that define a competent, trustworthy, and safe aviator. The path may be challenging, but with a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement, aspiring pilots can take flight into a fulfilling career in the vast expanse of the aviation world.
Are you ready to start your Airline Pilot Career? Then check out a list of fully-integrated programs that will take you from Zero to Airline Pilot License with over 1500 hours of total flight time, and become airline employment ready!