5 answers
joseph
Student
Adams, Massachusetts
1
Question
Asked
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whats the best process to becoming a commercial pilot?
I'm going to college for aviation flight, I'm wondering what the best path to becoming a commercial pilot is post graduation
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5 answers
Matthew Wild
First Officer at Compass Airlines
11
Answers
El Segundo, California
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
Why wait until after college? Hopefully you are working on your licenses now. Preferably in a structured environment. The fastest way to build time is as a CFI. You can also flying commercially doing aerial survey and pipeline inspection, etc.
On the other hand, if you have not started flight training and there is a particular airline you want to fly for…get into their training program. This is seen by them as equal to a 4 year degree.
Once you have your ATP mins, go to the “regional” (pay-for-departure) airline that does NOT a have a flow to the airline you want to fly for. (Example: Don’t go to Envoy, Piedmont or PSA if you want to fly for American, don’t go to CommuteAir/Mess/Go-Jet if you want to fly for United.). Flow to a major is just insurance in case things go south.
On the other hand, if you have not started flight training and there is a particular airline you want to fly for…get into their training program. This is seen by them as equal to a 4 year degree.
Once you have your ATP mins, go to the “regional” (pay-for-departure) airline that does NOT a have a flow to the airline you want to fly for. (Example: Don’t go to Envoy, Piedmont or PSA if you want to fly for American, don’t go to CommuteAir/Mess/Go-Jet if you want to fly for United.). Flow to a major is just insurance in case things go south.
Hi Matthew, how do you get into any airline training program? Do you have a link to share or just call Delta for example?
Oscar
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Joseph,
The Best Process to Becoming a Commercial Pilot
Becoming a commercial pilot is a rewarding and challenging career path that requires dedication, training, and experience. The process of becoming a commercial pilot typically involves several key steps, including obtaining the necessary education, flight training, certifications, and building flight hours. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best path to becoming a commercial pilot post-graduation from college for aviation flight:
1. Obtain the Necessary Education: Many aspiring commercial pilots pursue a degree in aviation or a related field. Attending a college or university with an aviation program can provide a strong foundation in aviation theory, aircraft operations, navigation, meteorology, and other essential subjects. A degree in aviation can also be beneficial for career advancement and may be required by some airlines.
2. Obtain Required Licenses and Certifications: After completing your education, the next step is to obtain the necessary licenses and certifications. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets the requirements for pilot certification in the United States. Aspiring commercial pilots typically start by obtaining a private pilot license (PPL), followed by an instrument rating, commercial pilot license (CPL), and multi-engine rating.
3. Gain Flight Experience: Building flight experience is crucial for aspiring commercial pilots. Many pilots gain experience by working as flight instructors, charter pilots, or corporate pilots. Building flight hours is essential for meeting the minimum requirements set by airlines for employment as a commercial pilot.
4. Obtain Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certification: To fly for an airline as a captain or first officer, pilots must obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. This certification requires meeting specific flight experience requirements and passing written and practical exams.
5. Network and Apply for Jobs: Networking within the aviation industry can be beneficial for finding job opportunities as a commercial pilot. Many airlines also have specific hiring requirements and may prefer candidates with relevant experience and qualifications.
6. Additional Considerations: It’s important to stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and technological advancements in aviation. Continuing education and training can also enhance career prospects and keep pilots competitive in the job market.
In summary, the best path to becoming a commercial pilot post-graduation from college for aviation flight involves obtaining the necessary education, licenses, certifications, gaining flight experience, obtaining ATP certification, networking within the industry, and staying informed about industry developments.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): The FAA is the primary regulatory body for civil aviation in the United States. Information from the FAA provides authoritative guidance on pilot certification requirements and regulations.
2. Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA): ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and provides valuable insights into industry standards, career paths, and professional development for commercial pilots.
3. National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI): NAFI offers resources and guidance for aspiring pilots seeking flight training and instructor certification, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the path to becoming a commercial pilot.
These sources were utilized to ensure that the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and aligned with industry standards and regulations.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
The Best Process to Becoming a Commercial Pilot
Becoming a commercial pilot is a rewarding and challenging career path that requires dedication, training, and experience. The process of becoming a commercial pilot typically involves several key steps, including obtaining the necessary education, flight training, certifications, and building flight hours. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best path to becoming a commercial pilot post-graduation from college for aviation flight:
1. Obtain the Necessary Education: Many aspiring commercial pilots pursue a degree in aviation or a related field. Attending a college or university with an aviation program can provide a strong foundation in aviation theory, aircraft operations, navigation, meteorology, and other essential subjects. A degree in aviation can also be beneficial for career advancement and may be required by some airlines.
2. Obtain Required Licenses and Certifications: After completing your education, the next step is to obtain the necessary licenses and certifications. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets the requirements for pilot certification in the United States. Aspiring commercial pilots typically start by obtaining a private pilot license (PPL), followed by an instrument rating, commercial pilot license (CPL), and multi-engine rating.
3. Gain Flight Experience: Building flight experience is crucial for aspiring commercial pilots. Many pilots gain experience by working as flight instructors, charter pilots, or corporate pilots. Building flight hours is essential for meeting the minimum requirements set by airlines for employment as a commercial pilot.
4. Obtain Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certification: To fly for an airline as a captain or first officer, pilots must obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. This certification requires meeting specific flight experience requirements and passing written and practical exams.
5. Network and Apply for Jobs: Networking within the aviation industry can be beneficial for finding job opportunities as a commercial pilot. Many airlines also have specific hiring requirements and may prefer candidates with relevant experience and qualifications.
6. Additional Considerations: It’s important to stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and technological advancements in aviation. Continuing education and training can also enhance career prospects and keep pilots competitive in the job market.
In summary, the best path to becoming a commercial pilot post-graduation from college for aviation flight involves obtaining the necessary education, licenses, certifications, gaining flight experience, obtaining ATP certification, networking within the industry, and staying informed about industry developments.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): The FAA is the primary regulatory body for civil aviation in the United States. Information from the FAA provides authoritative guidance on pilot certification requirements and regulations.
2. Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA): ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and provides valuable insights into industry standards, career paths, and professional development for commercial pilots.
3. National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI): NAFI offers resources and guidance for aspiring pilots seeking flight training and instructor certification, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the path to becoming a commercial pilot.
These sources were utilized to ensure that the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and aligned with industry standards and regulations.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
476
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
Atul’s Answer
To embark on the journey of becoming a pilot, it's crucial to grasp certain fundamentals.
Firstly, hone your skills in Mathematics, and familiarize yourself with both the Metric and British systems. Keep in mind that the entire world, with the exception of the US, operates on the Metric system.
Secondly, a strong knowledge of Geography is essential. Strive to excel in this subject.
Thirdly, effective communication is key. Ensure you're proficient in English, both in speaking and reading.
Lastly, the ability to think quickly and analytically is a must. Remember the story of the US Airways pilot who successfully landed on the Hudson River? That's the level of quick thinking and analytical skills you should aim for.
Firstly, hone your skills in Mathematics, and familiarize yourself with both the Metric and British systems. Keep in mind that the entire world, with the exception of the US, operates on the Metric system.
Secondly, a strong knowledge of Geography is essential. Strive to excel in this subject.
Thirdly, effective communication is key. Ensure you're proficient in English, both in speaking and reading.
Lastly, the ability to think quickly and analytically is a must. Remember the story of the US Airways pilot who successfully landed on the Hudson River? That's the level of quick thinking and analytical skills you should aim for.
Alexzandria Valentine
First Officer
14
Answers
Powder Springs, Georgia
Updated
Alexzandria’s Answer
For today's Aviation Market if you're already going to college and getting your licenses through your University postgraduation I would highly recommend being a part of a company that allows a flow through program so Delta United and even American are sponsoring several flight schools and academies to where if you enter through those programs and do whatever those programs require of you you are guaranteed an interview if not a job with a major airline at some point in your career.
When I had obtained my licenses post College in 2018 I had to go the route that most people before me went which is flight instruction get your hours apply for a regional get those hours apply for a major but you're at a optimal position to where if you can get in these programs for example Delta has a Propel program if you can get into something like that then you're guaranteed a job at a major airline once you meet all the criteria.
When I had obtained my licenses post College in 2018 I had to go the route that most people before me went which is flight instruction get your hours apply for a regional get those hours apply for a major but you're at a optimal position to where if you can get in these programs for example Delta has a Propel program if you can get into something like that then you're guaranteed a job at a major airline once you meet all the criteria.
Thank you, Alexzandria!
Logan
Wayne Johnson
Maintenance Programs at Alaska Airlines
76
Answers
Auburn, Washington
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
Joseph
I would get a degree or acquire a skill that does not require you to have a FAA 1st Class Medical Certificate which is required if you want to fly as an Airline Pilot. Currently you are required to take physical every 6 months for the 1st Class Medical. There are a lot of jobs in aviation that don't require a Medical Certificate.
Now on to the flight training:
What I would do is research the airline you think you would like to become a pilot.
Most of the "major" airlines have programs through their preferred flight schools, where once you complete the course you are guaranteed an interview and a possible job as a pilot. They will also assign you a current flight officer as a mentor to help you.
Go on the website and type "your airline" pilot program. Here are 4 examples:
Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
https://careers.alaskaair.com/career-opportunities/pilots/pilot-training/
https://www.delta.com/us/en/careers/pilots/propel
https://aacadetacademy.com/
https://careers.southwestair.com/destination-225-opportunities?utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Recruitment%20%7C%20D225%20%7C%20Search%20%7C%20US%20%7C%20NonBrand%20%7C%20Phrase%20%7C&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIxryqmLeFggMVfRqtBh19EghyEAAYASAAEgK2u_D_BwE
Another option would be to join the military, have them pay for your college degree or flight training.
I would get a degree or acquire a skill that does not require you to have a FAA 1st Class Medical Certificate which is required if you want to fly as an Airline Pilot. Currently you are required to take physical every 6 months for the 1st Class Medical. There are a lot of jobs in aviation that don't require a Medical Certificate.
Now on to the flight training:
What I would do is research the airline you think you would like to become a pilot.
Most of the "major" airlines have programs through their preferred flight schools, where once you complete the course you are guaranteed an interview and a possible job as a pilot. They will also assign you a current flight officer as a mentor to help you.
Go on the website and type "your airline" pilot program. Here are 4 examples:
Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
https://careers.alaskaair.com/career-opportunities/pilots/pilot-training/
https://www.delta.com/us/en/careers/pilots/propel
https://aacadetacademy.com/
https://careers.southwestair.com/destination-225-opportunities?utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Recruitment%20%7C%20D225%20%7C%20Search%20%7C%20US%20%7C%20NonBrand%20%7C%20Phrase%20%7C&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIxryqmLeFggMVfRqtBh19EghyEAAYASAAEgK2u_D_BwE
Another option would be to join the military, have them pay for your college degree or flight training.