How to Become an Airline Pilot: A Comprehensive Guide
Becoming an airline pilot requires following a structured path, and with the help of PilotCenter.net, you can ensure that you're on the right track at every step. We work with the largest flight schools globally, negotiate the best prices for you, and provide ongoing guidance at no cost to you.
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Our team will monitor your progress to ensure you’re learning, flying, and not falling behind—or worse, abandoning the program. Below, you will find detailed steps for three major pathways to becoming an airline pilot:
EASA (Europe), FAA (USA), and ICAO (Rest of the World).
The FAA Route (USA)
Step 1: Obtain a Class 1 Medical Certificate
Your journey begins with obtaining an FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate. PilotCenter.net helps you locate an FAA-approved Aviation Medical Examiner to get you started
Step 2: Private Pilot License (PPL)
Your first flying license will be a PPL, requiring 40 flight hours.
PilotCenter.net partners with U.S. flight schools to help you find the best options and negotiate the best prices for your training.
Step 3: Instrument Rating (IR)
To become proficient in flying under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), you’ll need an Instrument Rating. PilotCenter.net will monitor your progress and assist you in enrolling in top-notch IR training courses.
Step 4: Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
To be eligible for paid flying jobs, you’ll need a CPL, which requires a
minimum of 250 flight hours. PilotCenter.net works with top schools to make sure you’re on the best path, with no financial surprises along the way.
Step 5: Build Flight Hours (Time Building)
As you build the required 1,500 flight hours for an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATP), PilotCenter.net will guide you toward the most efficient and cost-effective time-building options, often through flight instructing or other flying roles.
Step 6: Multi-Engine Rating (MEP)
Obtaining your Multi-Engine Rating (MEP) is essential for flying commercial aircraft. We will ensure you receive the training needed to pass this critical stage.
Step 7: Airline Transport Pilot License (ATP)
Once you have accumulated 1,500 hours, you’re ready for your ATP
certificate. PilotCenter.net will assist in scheduling and preparing you for the ATP exam, ensuring you are confident and ready.
Step 8: Type Rating
After obtaining your ATP, you’ll need a Type Rating for the aircraft you’ll be flying. PilotCenter.net will help you choose the best training program for your needs.
Step 9: Job Application and Airline Recruitment
Once all the steps are completed, PilotCenter.net will help you apply for airline positions and offer advice on interviews and recruitment processes. We stay with you every step of the way to make sure you succeed.
At PilotCenter.net, we are committed to guiding you through every step of your pilot training journey, no matter which certification path you choose. By working with flight schools around the world and negotiating the best prices, we ensure that cost will never be a barrier. Plus, we’ll monitor your progress, making sure you stay on course and reach your dream of becoming an airline pilot.