What are the different levels of pilots?
(return to top) Pilots are licensed according to the level of training and certification they’ve received. The lowest level is the Sports Pilot, followed by the Private, Commercial, and Air Transport . What each level can do is strictly regulated by the FAA. Each level involves passing the FAA written Knowledge Test, and passing the Practical test given by a designated FAA examiner, and which includes an oral exam and a demonstration of flight proficiency. • The Sports Pilot can only fly in the new light sport airplane which has a maximum weight (fully loaded) of 1300 pounds, can only fly during the day, and can take only one passenger. In addition, they cannot fly into Class C or B airspace without receiving further training and an endorsement on their license. To obtain a Sports pilot license, the candidate must have obtained a minimum of 20 hours of flight training, pass the required exams, and hold a valid driver’s license. • ThePrivate pilot license is the starting point for all w