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Madison
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Do I need to go to college to be a commercial pilot?#Spring24
I would assume that employers would be looking to hire college degree students more than someone who didn't go to college. But do I really need to go?
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John Morris
Instructional Designer / Musician / eLearning Creator
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John’s Answer
I was never a pilot, but I spent 16 years in the airline industry and I do have some observations to share.
It is true that some airlines do prefer candidates with college educations. However, the job is so specialized that flying experience and the number of hours flown are at least of equal importance.
There is something to consider, though. There are management, technical, and leadership positions for pilots in all airlines. For example a line pilot can become the fleet manager for an aircraft type, or a chief pilot, or a safety officer. At the airline where I worked, the Vice President of Flight always was recruited from the pilot ranks. For these types of positions I think that a college education may be beneficial. The pilots that I knew back in the day who worked these jobs almost all had college degrees, often aviation-specific degrees.
All that being said, I also knew (and still know) pilots who did not go to college and spent many years flying airplanes. A guy that I worked with 30 years ago, is now flying Boeing 787s all over the world and loving it.
You just have to ask yourself what career path you may wish to take once you are a pilot.
It is true that some airlines do prefer candidates with college educations. However, the job is so specialized that flying experience and the number of hours flown are at least of equal importance.
There is something to consider, though. There are management, technical, and leadership positions for pilots in all airlines. For example a line pilot can become the fleet manager for an aircraft type, or a chief pilot, or a safety officer. At the airline where I worked, the Vice President of Flight always was recruited from the pilot ranks. For these types of positions I think that a college education may be beneficial. The pilots that I knew back in the day who worked these jobs almost all had college degrees, often aviation-specific degrees.
All that being said, I also knew (and still know) pilots who did not go to college and spent many years flying airplanes. A guy that I worked with 30 years ago, is now flying Boeing 787s all over the world and loving it.
You just have to ask yourself what career path you may wish to take once you are a pilot.
Thank you for sharing with me! It was very helpful
Madison
Rory Lall
Administrative Assistant
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Valley Stream, New York
Updated
Rory’s Answer
Becoming a commercial pilot doesn't necessarily require a formal education, but it does involve a certain amount of specific training and certification. Here's a friendly guide to the steps you might take:
High School Education:
Kick off your journey by wrapping up your high school education or earning an equivalent diploma like a GED. Having a good grasp of math and science can give you a head start.
Private Pilot License (PPL):
Next, dive into your flight training and aim to secure a Private Pilot License (PPL). This involves clocking in flight hours, attending ground school, and passing written exams. You can do this on your own or through a flight school.
Instrument Rating (IR):
Once you have your PPL, think about acquiring an Instrument Rating (IR). This will equip you to navigate through different weather conditions using only your instruments.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL):
To be a commercial pilot, you'll need a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). This requires more flight hours, including cross-country flights, among other things. You need to be at least 18 years old to apply for a CPL.
Flight Hours and Experience:
Work towards accumulating the necessary flight hours, typically around 250 hours, for your CPL. You can gain valuable experience by taking on roles like a flight instructor or a banner tow pilot.
Pass Written and Practical Exams:
Ace the written exams and practical flight tests that are conducted by aviation authorities.
Optional College Degree:
Though it's not a must, some airlines do prefer candidates with a college degree. Degrees in aviation, aeronautical science, or similar fields could boost your chances.
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL):
If you're eyeing a career with airlines, set your sights on an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). This requires more flight hours, usually 1,500 hours, and additional training.
Build a Strong Resume:
Make sure your resume shines with your flight experience, certifications, and any other qualifications you have. Networking with industry professionals and exploring job opportunities can also be beneficial.
Medical Certification:
Lastly, keep your medical certificate up-to-date to show that you meet all health requirements.
Good luck to you!
High School Education:
Kick off your journey by wrapping up your high school education or earning an equivalent diploma like a GED. Having a good grasp of math and science can give you a head start.
Private Pilot License (PPL):
Next, dive into your flight training and aim to secure a Private Pilot License (PPL). This involves clocking in flight hours, attending ground school, and passing written exams. You can do this on your own or through a flight school.
Instrument Rating (IR):
Once you have your PPL, think about acquiring an Instrument Rating (IR). This will equip you to navigate through different weather conditions using only your instruments.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL):
To be a commercial pilot, you'll need a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). This requires more flight hours, including cross-country flights, among other things. You need to be at least 18 years old to apply for a CPL.
Flight Hours and Experience:
Work towards accumulating the necessary flight hours, typically around 250 hours, for your CPL. You can gain valuable experience by taking on roles like a flight instructor or a banner tow pilot.
Pass Written and Practical Exams:
Ace the written exams and practical flight tests that are conducted by aviation authorities.
Optional College Degree:
Though it's not a must, some airlines do prefer candidates with a college degree. Degrees in aviation, aeronautical science, or similar fields could boost your chances.
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL):
If you're eyeing a career with airlines, set your sights on an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). This requires more flight hours, usually 1,500 hours, and additional training.
Build a Strong Resume:
Make sure your resume shines with your flight experience, certifications, and any other qualifications you have. Networking with industry professionals and exploring job opportunities can also be beneficial.
Medical Certification:
Lastly, keep your medical certificate up-to-date to show that you meet all health requirements.
Good luck to you!
Thank you, this was very helpful!
Madison