When you step onto an airplane, you trust that your pilot possesses the skills to get you to your destination safely. Have you ever wondered what goes into gaining that expertise? 

The path to becoming a pilot will vary based on your unique interests and needs. We’ve created this guide to answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about the process. Continue reading to learn the four most important things to know before becoming a pilot. 

1. Pilots Must Meet High Medical Standards

You need to meet high medical standards to become a pilot. As a young professional in the commercial flight industry, you will likely need to undergo a flight physical once per year. This exam is different from a physical with a general practitioner. You must obtain a first-class medical certificate from an FAA-certified physician. 

During the physical, the doctor will look at the following:

• Eyesight and Eye Health: Per the Federal Aviation Administration, first-class airline transport pilots must have 20/20 vision with or without correction. Colorblind individuals cannot become pilots.
• Cardiovascular Health: Pilots must have normal blood pressure. Their pulse rate should suggest a responsive cardiac system. Overall, they should not display symptoms that may put them at risk of a cardiac event in the air. 
• Mental Health: Pilots cannot fly with a history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or severe personality disorders. Many of these conditions involve visual or auditory hallucinations that could impair an individual’s judgment in the air. Furthermore, pilots cannot have a history of substance abuse. If you have a history of substance dependence, you may be able to demonstrate clinical evidence of recovery.
• Neurological Health: Individuals can be disqualified from becoming pilots if they experience epilepsy, certain fainting conditions, or any condition impacting the nervous system. 
• Metabolic Health: Furthermore, if you have diabetes, you won’t be able to become a pilot in the United States.

These health considerations are important to be aware of before starting out on your journey to becoming a pilot. International requirements may vary, so check out your country’s specifications if you are hoping to get a pilot’s license in a country other than the US.

2. There are Several Possible Paths to Becoming a Pilot 

The qualifications you need to be a pilot depend on the route you take.

You can take two primary paths to gain the qualifications to be a pilot. You can obtain training through the US military or pursue civilian flight education. 

Steps to Become a Pilot in the Military

It is possible to pursue pilot training by enlisting in the U.S. Army. The only qualification is a high school diploma. Be aware that you must commit to ten years of military service in exchange for Army training. 

You can also pursue training through other military branches, such as the Air Force or Navy. To take those paths, you will need a bachelor’s degree first. 

The first step on the Army route is to complete six weeks of warrant officer training. When you finish that training, you may begin formal flight training. Training involves classes, simulations, and hands-on experiences. The process usually takes between twelve and eighteen months. 

Paths to Become a Pilot as a Civilian

As a civilian, you have two paths to becoming a pilot right out of high school. You can attend a college or university with an aviation degree or enroll in a local flight school.

Obtaining an Aviation Degree

The University route might be right if you would benefit from federal funding to complete your education. You’ll be able to have a traditional college experience, including living on campus if desired. 

Furthermore, graduates of aviation programs have lower flight time requirements than individuals who choose a different pathway. You may only need 1,000 hours of flight time before you become eligible for hire. 

Be aware that a four-year University degree is a considerable expense. This path may not be feasible for everyone, even with FAFSA aid. You will incur separate costs to pursue additional flight training to meet licensure requirements. 

Enroll in Flight School

Your local flight school most likely offers a pilot training program. These programs can be more intimate alternatives to University aviation programs. Your flight school might not have the same amount of structure as a formal aviation degree program, but many students appreciate the flexibility and personal approach to education.

You technically do not need to complete a four-year degree program before becoming licensed through a flight school. Upon asking a recruiter, “What do I need to become a pilot?” expect them to mention a bachelor’s degree. Most major airlines prioritize applicants with a four-year college education. 

Many students enroll in flight school while pursuing their undergraduate degree at a local college. It will ensure your application is competitive, regardless of your academic major. If you already have a degree, seek an accelerated airline pilot program. 

You will have higher flight time requirements at flight school than you would if you pursued an aviation degree. On average, student pilots need a minimum of 1,500 hours before they become eligible for licensure.  

While this option provides excellent hands-on flight experience, it can be more time-consuming.  You might have to spend additional time as a flight instructor to meet the minimum.

Pilots Have Many Possible Career Routes

While many pilots fly for commercial airlines, aviation is not a one-size-fits-all career. After receiving your initial license, you might choose one of the following careers:

• Mainline airline pilot (piloting international flights)
• Regional airline pilot (piloting domestic flights)
• Cargo carrier or freight pilot
• Corporate aviation pilot
• For-hire pilot
• Law enforcement pilot (working with the police force, fire department, or EMS)
• Agricultural pilot
• Media pilot 

If you choose the military training route, you may have additional career paths open to you. For example, you can become a dedicated military, stunt, or test pilot. 

Your salary will vary depending on which career you choose. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for airline pilots is $202,180. The median annual wage for commercial pilots is $99,640. 

There Are Four Basic Pilot Licenses

Not every individual with a license is eligible for every aviation career above. You will need to hold the correct license. 

• A Student Pilot Certificate is like a learner’s permit for student pilots. You must have a flight instructor present while in the air.
  
• A Private Pilot Certificate qualifies you to carry passengers for limited business purposes.
  
• A Commercial Pilot Certificate allows you to conduct some professional airplane operations. It may or may not qualify you to captain a plane on commercial airlines. You can often work as a co-pilot with this license.
  
• An Airline Transport Pilot ATP Certification qualifies you to captain a plane for most commercial operations. 

The Sky is the Limit with a Satisfying Aviation Career

Flying a plane is a big responsibility. Whether you’re carrying a jet full of passengers or a hold full of cargo, you need to keep your wits. Problem-solvers with patience, bravery, and a knack for three-dimensional thinking might fall in love with this challenging career.

Do you have lingering questions about your future aviation career? Get your questions answered about becoming a Pilot at CareerVillage.