4 answers
Mariah
Student
Reno, Nevada
3
Questions
Asked
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How do I peruse my dream of becoming a commercial pilot ?
I am a senior and I have decent grades and I love sports and commercial pilots.
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4 answers
Wayne Johnson
Maintenance Programs at Alaska Airlines
59
Answers
Auburn, Washington
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
Mariah -
What I would do is research on the airline you think you would like to become a pilot.
Most of the "major" airlines have programs through their preferred flight schools, where once you complete the course you are guaranteed an interview and a possible job as a pilot. They will also assign you a current flight officer as a mentor to help you.
Go on the website and type "your airline" pilot program. Here are 4 examples:
Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
https://careers.alaskaair.com/career-opportunities/pilots/pilot-training/
https://www.delta.com/us/en/careers/pilots/propel
https://aacadetacademy.com/
https://careers.southwestair.com/destination-225-opportunities?utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Recruitment%20%7C%20D225%20%7C%20Search%20%7C%20US%20%7C%20NonBrand%20%7C%20Phrase%20%7C&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIxryqmLeFggMVfRqtBh19EghyEAAYASAAEgK2u_D_BwE
Another option would be to join the military, have them pay for your college degree or flight training.
You should also have a backup plan in case you cannot pass your "medical" for flying as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). The ATP requires a 1st Class Medical, which is required every 6 months.
What I would do is research on the airline you think you would like to become a pilot.
Most of the "major" airlines have programs through their preferred flight schools, where once you complete the course you are guaranteed an interview and a possible job as a pilot. They will also assign you a current flight officer as a mentor to help you.
Go on the website and type "your airline" pilot program. Here are 4 examples:
Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
https://careers.alaskaair.com/career-opportunities/pilots/pilot-training/
https://www.delta.com/us/en/careers/pilots/propel
https://aacadetacademy.com/
https://careers.southwestair.com/destination-225-opportunities?utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Recruitment%20%7C%20D225%20%7C%20Search%20%7C%20US%20%7C%20NonBrand%20%7C%20Phrase%20%7C&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIxryqmLeFggMVfRqtBh19EghyEAAYASAAEgK2u_D_BwE
Another option would be to join the military, have them pay for your college degree or flight training.
You should also have a backup plan in case you cannot pass your "medical" for flying as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). The ATP requires a 1st Class Medical, which is required every 6 months.
Ryan Pfeiffer, MA
Firefighter Training Officer / EMT
83
Answers
Fort Collins, Colorado
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hello Mariah,
James' answer was excellent. My only contribution is to suggest that you consider looking into the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program, especially the Detachment at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
While earning your undergraduate degree, you can earn your private pilot license, as well as numerous other endorsements and related courses. As an Air Force officer, you'll have the opportunity to compete for a pilot slot. You could gain vast amounts of experience, knowledge, certifications, and networking that will set you up well to transition to a career as a commercial pilot. The mission of the Air Force's Air Mobility Command has a lot of overlap with commercial aviation - you'd be moving passengers and cargo all over the world. There is a lot more to the Air Force than just fighters, bombers, and drones! I have MANY friends and colleagues from Embry-Riddle and the Air Force that have gone on to become civilian commercial pilots.
If you want to know more about the Air Force, ROTC, or Embry-Riddle, just let me know!
James' answer was excellent. My only contribution is to suggest that you consider looking into the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program, especially the Detachment at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
While earning your undergraduate degree, you can earn your private pilot license, as well as numerous other endorsements and related courses. As an Air Force officer, you'll have the opportunity to compete for a pilot slot. You could gain vast amounts of experience, knowledge, certifications, and networking that will set you up well to transition to a career as a commercial pilot. The mission of the Air Force's Air Mobility Command has a lot of overlap with commercial aviation - you'd be moving passengers and cargo all over the world. There is a lot more to the Air Force than just fighters, bombers, and drones! I have MANY friends and colleagues from Embry-Riddle and the Air Force that have gone on to become civilian commercial pilots.
If you want to know more about the Air Force, ROTC, or Embry-Riddle, just let me know!
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
472
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
That would be an exciting career. A website with the basics on this is at
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot That website gives the steps to follow in your pursuit. I wish you the best.
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-commercial-pilot That website gives the steps to follow in your pursuit. I wish you the best.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3754
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, Mariah!
It's fantastic to hear about your dream of soaring the skies as a commercial pilot! This journey is filled with excitement, hard work, and a deep love for aviation. As a bright student with a knack for sports and a keen interest in commercial aviation, there are several steps you can follow to make your dream a reality.
1. Get Your Private Pilot License (PPL): The first milestone on your journey is to earn your Private Pilot License (PPL). This involves flight training at a certified school or with a skilled flight instructor. You'll learn the basics of flying, including simple maneuvers, navigation, and how to handle emergencies.
2. Rack Up Flight Hours and Experience: Once you have your PPL, it's time to gather flight hours and experience. You can achieve this by going after additional certifications like an Instrument Rating (IR) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL). These will let you fly in various weather conditions and equip you with the skills to operate as a commercial pilot.
3. Go for Advanced Training: Think about signing up for an aviation degree program or a specialized pilot training course at a well-known institution. Many universities and flight schools offer programs tailored to prepare students for a career as commercial pilots. These programs usually include advanced flight training, aviation theory, and hands-on experience.
4. Secure a Commercial Pilot License (CPL): To work as a commercial pilot, you'll need to get a CPL from the aviation authority in your country. This license will enable you to fly for payment or hire, creating opportunities to work for airlines, charter companies, or other commercial aviation operators.
5. Obtain Additional Ratings and Certifications: Depending on your career aspirations, you might want to earn extra ratings and certifications like Multi-Engine Rating (ME), Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), or specific type ratings for different aircraft. These extra qualifications can boost your employability and pave the way for more advanced roles in the aviation industry.
6. Network and Look for Job Opportunities: As you advance in your training and gain the necessary qualifications, it's crucial to network within the aviation community and look for job opportunities. This could involve attending industry events, job fairs, or reaching out to potential employers directly. Making connections and staying updated about job openings can help you land your first job as a commercial pilot.
Top 3 Reliable Reference Publications:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - www.faa.gov
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) - www.icao.int
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) - www.aopa.org
These reliable sources offer in-depth information on aviation regulations, licensing requirements, training programs, and industry standards that are crucial for budding commercial pilots.
By following these steps and staying committed to your goal, you can inch closer to your dream of becoming a commercial pilot. Remember to stay focused, keep learning, and seek advice from seasoned professionals in the field as you chart your path towards a career in commercial aviation.
Don't hesitate to ask for more information if you need it! That's what we're here for! And remember, a little prayer never hurts either!
Best wishes,
James.
It's fantastic to hear about your dream of soaring the skies as a commercial pilot! This journey is filled with excitement, hard work, and a deep love for aviation. As a bright student with a knack for sports and a keen interest in commercial aviation, there are several steps you can follow to make your dream a reality.
1. Get Your Private Pilot License (PPL): The first milestone on your journey is to earn your Private Pilot License (PPL). This involves flight training at a certified school or with a skilled flight instructor. You'll learn the basics of flying, including simple maneuvers, navigation, and how to handle emergencies.
2. Rack Up Flight Hours and Experience: Once you have your PPL, it's time to gather flight hours and experience. You can achieve this by going after additional certifications like an Instrument Rating (IR) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL). These will let you fly in various weather conditions and equip you with the skills to operate as a commercial pilot.
3. Go for Advanced Training: Think about signing up for an aviation degree program or a specialized pilot training course at a well-known institution. Many universities and flight schools offer programs tailored to prepare students for a career as commercial pilots. These programs usually include advanced flight training, aviation theory, and hands-on experience.
4. Secure a Commercial Pilot License (CPL): To work as a commercial pilot, you'll need to get a CPL from the aviation authority in your country. This license will enable you to fly for payment or hire, creating opportunities to work for airlines, charter companies, or other commercial aviation operators.
5. Obtain Additional Ratings and Certifications: Depending on your career aspirations, you might want to earn extra ratings and certifications like Multi-Engine Rating (ME), Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), or specific type ratings for different aircraft. These extra qualifications can boost your employability and pave the way for more advanced roles in the aviation industry.
6. Network and Look for Job Opportunities: As you advance in your training and gain the necessary qualifications, it's crucial to network within the aviation community and look for job opportunities. This could involve attending industry events, job fairs, or reaching out to potential employers directly. Making connections and staying updated about job openings can help you land your first job as a commercial pilot.
Top 3 Reliable Reference Publications:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - www.faa.gov
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) - www.icao.int
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) - www.aopa.org
These reliable sources offer in-depth information on aviation regulations, licensing requirements, training programs, and industry standards that are crucial for budding commercial pilots.
By following these steps and staying committed to your goal, you can inch closer to your dream of becoming a commercial pilot. Remember to stay focused, keep learning, and seek advice from seasoned professionals in the field as you chart your path towards a career in commercial aviation.
Don't hesitate to ask for more information if you need it! That's what we're here for! And remember, a little prayer never hurts either!
Best wishes,
James.