How can I become a commercial airline pilot?
The military route aside, here are the civilian routes to an airline career in the United States: An aspiring civilian pilot can do their flight training and earn their licenses & ratings via these routes: A university aviation program An aviation academy program A local flight school or flying club One does not need a degree in aviation to become a pilot. However some chose to go to an aviation university as the curriculum interests them and they can get college credit for their training. There are many ‘big name’ schools such as Embry Riddle Aeronautical University & University of North Dakota that offer programs that run upwards of $80K for a 4 year degree. Students earn their Private Pilot license, Instrument & Muti-engine ratings, Commercial pilot license and often the Flight Instructor certificates too while doing their degree. However, many smaller schools offer aviation degrees as well for much less money. To research aviation universities go to the University Aviation Associat
There are two routes to becoming a commercial airline pilot: the military route and the civilian route. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages which should be considered when pursuing a career in commercial aviation. Would-be pilots should also be aware that commercial airline pilots need a lot of training, which often involves a very large investment of cash, and that employment in commercial aviation is quite varied. Some pilots make top salaries flying internationally for major airlines, while others struggle to make due on local commuter routes. Becoming a commercial airline pilot through the military route involves joining the Air Force, qualifying as a pilot there, and committing to a set number of years of service as a pilot. In addition to working as a pilot, military pilots are also called upon to perform military duties, and military experience should not be viewed as simply a stepping stone in the path to becoming a commercial airline pilot. After a pilot’s military
