Military-to-Civilian Conversion
for Foreign Air Force Pilots

For whom is this program?

Foreign military pilots, though trained to fly advanced aircraft, do not receive civilian pilot licenses. Instead, they obtain military certification, which qualifies them for military aviation duties but does not translate into a civilian license for commercial or private flying. This limitation presents a challenge for those looking to transition into civilian aviation careers.

However, through our uniquely designed conversion program, foreign military pilots can now transform their military flight experience into civilian qualifications, provided their military background comes from a country that is a contracted member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This program enables foreign military pilots to convert their flight time directly into a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) with minimal additional preparation.

The FAA allows the conversion of military aeronautical experience into FAA-recognized qualifications, enabling pilots to apply for sequential FAA licenses (PPL, IR, CPL, ATPL) based on their military experience. This program leverages the skills and training gained through military service, providing a streamlined pathway to civilian certification. With an FAA-issued CPL or ATPL, pilots are qualified to pursue careers in commercial aviation across most ICAO member countries, creating opportunities to build on their military expertise in the civilian aviation sector. This initiative serves as a bridge between military and civilian aviation, supporting pilots in transitioning to new careers in global commercial aviation.

Additionally, under FAA exemption 61.73, foreign military pilots who served with the U.S. Armed Forces can bypass the PPL and IR certifications and proceed directly to obtaining a CPL, followed by an ATPL. This exemption further facilitates the transition for qualified foreign military pilots to civilian aviation careers.

This program is structured in such a way that every segment leads our ex military pilot to the ultimate goal: employment in the ICAO airlines. The program is divided into the following stages:

The military-to-civilian pilot license conversion timeline is highly variable, hinging on factors such as the pilot's logged flight hours and how their previous military flight experience aligns with FAA standards. This program is structured to help pilots assess and convert their experience effectively, with downloadable checklists for the FAA PPL, CPL, IR, and ATPL available on this page for initial review and preparation. Each checklist outlines the FAA criteria to guide pilots through the requirements and prepare them for the respective licensing steps.

Training follows FAA regulations, enabling minimal check-ride preparation—typically 5-6 hours of training—before each practical exam. This structure allows for up to two practical exams per day, though the training is paced sensibly to ensure thorough readiness for each stage. Pilots must complete each licensing phase in sequence, with progress dependent on passing both theoretical and practical assessments.

To qualify for each check-ride, pilots must first pass a multi-question theoretical computer-based exam, requiring a score of at least 70% to proceed to the practical assessment. FAA rules permit flight schools to provide candidates with official test questions and answers, facilitating rigorous preparation. For example, the CPL theoretical test question bank contains 500 questions, of which only 60 will be presented on the actual exam. Pilots are provided the entire question bank to maximize their preparedness and ensure high scores.

Upon completing CPL certification, pilots with a minimum of 1,500 logged hours in various mandated flight regimes (as outlined in the provided checklist) have two ATPL licensing options. They can either undertake an ATPL check-ride in a multi-engine propeller aircraft, such as a Piper Seminole, Seneca, or Diamond 42, or pursue a combined PIC type-rating and ATPL check-ride in an A320 or B737 simulator. This second pathway not only grants an ATPL but also attaches a type rating to their license, positioning pilots for direct entry into commercial airline roles with essential aircraft-specific certification.

With this structured yet flexible conversion process, pilots transitioning from military to civilian aviation can leverage their extensive experience while meeting FAA standards efficiently, preparing them for rewarding careers in global commercial aviation.

More details about the program and its phases:

During the conversion process, we thoroughly review each pilot's military flight log to verify that it aligns with FAA requirements. This evaluation includes analyzing flight hours and confirming that all necessary flight modes are documented in accordance with FAA standards. If any gaps are found, we will design a personalized curriculum tailored to cover the specific flight modes or experience areas missing in the logbook. This targeted training ensures that every pilot gains the comprehensive experience needed to meet civilian licensing criteria.

Moreover, we will meticulously check that all logged flight time complies with FAA regulations. Should any discrepancies arise, we will recommend corrective actions to align your logbook with FAA standards. Additionally, we provide guidance on preparing your military certification documentation. This includes translating and certifying your military records into English if required, ensuring that they are correctly formatted and authenticated to meet FAA specifications.

Our structured approach ensures that every aspect of your military training is accurately reflected, helping you transition smoothly to civilian aviation with the qualifications recognized across the industry.

If you already possess the necessary flight hours across all required flight regimes for the first licensing phase—the Private Pilot License (PPL)—you’ll receive between four and five hours of dedicated flight time to prepare specifically for the FAA check-ride. This preparation focuses on meeting the FAA’s standards for the PPL, ensuring you’re ready for the assessment with an FAA examiner. These targeted hours are designed to refine your skills, familiarize you with FAA requirements, and build confidence for a successful check-ride, enabling a smooth progression through the licensing process.

The same preparation approach applies to the Instrument Rating (IR) check-ride. If your instrument flight hours and training meet FAA requirements, you’ll receive five hours of dedicated preparation to focus on the standards needed for the IR check-ride. This time is used to polish your instrument skills and ensure you’re aligned with FAA expectations. After completing this preparation, you’ll be ready to take the IR check-ride.

However, if you lack the required instrument flight hours or experience, additional training may be necessary. This training can be completed in either an aircraft or a flight simulator to build the hours and proficiency needed for the IR check-ride. This structured support ensures you’re well-prepared to succeed at each licensing step.

The same structured approach extends to the Commercial Pilot License (CPL) check-ride preparation. If your logged flight hours and training for the CPL meet FAA standards, you will receive five hours of focused preparation to refine your skills according to the FAA’s commercial pilot check-ride standards. This preparation time ensures you’re ready for the FAA examiner and the practical requirements of the CPL.

If you do not yet meet the required flight hours or experience, additional training will be necessary. This training can be conducted in an aircraft or flight simulator to build the hours and competencies needed for the CPL check-ride. This tailored approach guarantees that all candidates are fully prepared, addressing any gaps to meet the rigorous standards of the FAA commercial licensing process.

The final stage of your licensing journey presents two options, each tailored to different career paths in airline transport.

Option One: You may complete the ATPL check-ride in a multi-engine propeller training aircraft, such as a Piper Seminole or similar. Successfully passing this check-ride will grant you a full, unrestricted Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) with a multi-engine rating. However, your single-engine rating will be limited to CPL (Commercial Pilot License) operations only. This means you will be qualified to operate multi-engine aircraft as an airline pilot, while single-engine aircraft will be limited to commercial operations.

Before being allowed to take the ATPL check-ride, you will need to take a mandatory FAA ATP-CTP course: the FAA’s Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training Program (ATP-CTP) is an essential step for pilots pursuing an ATP certificate with a multi-engine rating, a qualification required for airline first officers in Part 121 operations. This course provides a bridge between commercial pilot training and the high demands of airline transport, combining 30 hours of ground instruction with 10 hours of simulator training to equip pilots with advanced knowledge and skills.

Course content includes in-depth training in aerodynamics, meteorology, turbine engine operations, and high-altitude flight dynamics, ensuring pilots are prepared for complex flight environments. Human factors, professionalism, and crew resource management (CRM) are also central to the curriculum, emphasizing teamwork, communication, and decision-making in multi-crew settings. Simulator sessions cover essential maneuvers like stall prevention and upset recovery, along with automation management and multi-crew coordination. Upon completing the ATP-CTP, pilots must pass a written exam to demonstrate their understanding of the material, and the course must be conducted at an FAA-approved training facility. This program is a critical foundation for pilots entering the airline industry, emphasizing safety, professionalism, and operational expertise essential for high-stakes commercial flying. This course takes 1 week.

Option 2 - see below

Option Two: This option allows you to enhance your ATPL by adding a type rating in a transport category jet, such as an Airbus A320 or Boeing 737. This involves completing a combined PIC (Pilot in Command) type-rating check-ride in a full-motion simulator for one of these jet types. Successfully completing this option provides a transport category jet type rating, adding significant value to your ATPL and preparing you for airline roles that require specific jet qualifications. In this case, your ATPL check ride will be taken in a A320 or B737 flight simulator, where you type rating practical exam and your ATPL check-ride will be taken consurrently. Of course, this option also requires you to take a week-long FAA’s Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training Program (ATP-CTP).

Both options allow for an ATPL, but the second pathway opens doors to operate A320 and B737NG jets and positions you more competitively for roles with major airlines. This two-pronged approach offers flexibility based on your career aspirations and the types of aircraft you aim to command.

Pilots will receive the following amount of flight training hours during the licensing phases of the program:

Attention:

The full program, as outlined above, is expected to take approximately two months to complete. During this time, pilots have the flexibility to arrange their own short-term accommodation. Options include renting through platforms like Rent.com, focusing on the Ormond Beach area, or opting for local hotels, where 3-star rates typically range between $80 and $120 per day. AirBnB can be a more affordable choice, offering accommodations hosted by private owners for often lower rates.

Transportation to the flight training center will be the pilot's responsibility. While some may prefer the convenience of renting a car, others might choose a bicycle for an economical and flexible way to commute. These options allow pilots to customize their stay to suit their budget and needs while undergoing the training program.

The Full Estimtaed Program Cost

Estimated cost for PPL certification, including goverment fees and check-ride fees: 2,680.00 USD. Estimated cost for Instument certification is $3,655.00 USD. Estimated cost of multi-engine add-on is $3,500.00 USD. Estimated cost of CPL certification is $3,635.00 USD. Estimated cost for ATPL with multi-engine rating (without type-rating is): $13,142.50 USD (ATP-CTP $4,500.00 USD, ATP prep and check-ride: $8,642.00 USD).

Optional B737NG or A320 Type Rating add-on

For pilots who want to add a full, command PIC A320 or B737NG type-rating to their FAA ATPL license, the cost of add-on is $14,500 USD.

Optional Indian (DGCA) ATPL Add-on

For the pilots enrolling from India, and planning to work in India after graduation, we have partnered up with Hercules Aviation Training School (HATS) to provide FAA ATPL to FAA DGCA certification and license add-on program in Hyderabad. Pilots will need to start their DGCA ground school training in India - that phase will take 3 months - then pass their DGCA ATPL theoretical exams, then arrive in the United States for training and internship. After completion of training and certification (phases 1-6), pilot will come back to India to conduct their FAA ATPL to DGCA ATPL license add-on phase. This phase will also be provided by Hercules Aviation Training School. This phase will take 2-3 weeks. After completion of the ATP conversion process,pilots will be provided with the Airline Pilot Placement Assistance service by HATS with Indigo Airlines. At the end of this process, pilots will hold two separate ICAO Airline Transport Pilot Licenses: FAA and DGCA. The cost of this add-on will include: DGCA Ground School: $2500 USD; DGCA ATPL: $2495 USD.

Additional Expenses

The total estimated cost for the program amounts to $7,065. This includes $1,500 for administration, consulting, document review, and preparation; $160 for the FAA Class 1 medical examination; $520 for TSA Certification Clearances, based on four certifications at $130 each; $185 for the M1 visa fee; and $200 for the SEVIS I-901 fee. Additionally, accommodation is estimated at $2,250 for 45 days at $50 per day, and car rental is also estimated at $2,250 for the same duration and daily rate. These costs cover all essential aspects of the program, ensuring a comprehensive and efficient process.

Should a pilot fail any of the required check-rides, or not adhere to the curriculum set forth by the flight school, he/she will be liable for additional fees resulting from the additional training hours. Such fees will be billed separately and depend on the type of additional training and type of aircraft or FTD.

Our academy does not require pilots to pay for the entire flight training program in advance. We have a payment structure that needs to be followed by all students, with some exception. Students must submit the following payments:

Please note: conditions of deposit refund are outlined in the flight training agreement, which students are required to sign upon enrollment and before any payments are due.

Our company can provide administrative support for ex-military pilots to obtain Financial Aid from their respective banks and financial institutions. Such support is offered by providing conditional employment offer letters and training bond contracts. Read the details here >>>

Please note: Aerocadet does not provide flight training sponsorships. Please read the student loan information located via the above link thoroughly before applying for enrollment. 

To enroll into this program, an applicant must have the following documents:

To enroll into this program, you must follow the outline below:

If you need a personal consultation regarding the flight training program, please email one of our highly qualified consultants with a full list of your questions, and receive a structured response within 24 hours.

Download program base structure and pricing break-down here:

PDF Cost Structure Available