5 answers
Elsher
Student
Alaska, IN
1
Question
Asked
410 views
Can I still be pilot at this age?
I live being a pilot since I was child but due to some circumstances I haven't achieved the dream. Can I still make it?
5 answers
Wayne Johnson
Maintenance Programs at Alaska Airlines
69
Answers
Auburn, Washington
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
EISHER:
You did not state your current age.
Here is the minimum age requirements: The FAA allows you to begin flight training at a young age. However, you must be 16 years old to fly solo and be at least 17 years old to officially receive your PPL. You must be proficient in English, hold a third-class medical certificate, and possess basic math skills.
Due to the expense of flight training, if you get hired by an airline in a position other than as a pilot, many of the airlines work with various flight schools and you are given a stipend once you reach a certain level in you flight training. Then after completing your flight training you are guaranteed an interview for a pilots position. In the case of Alaska Airlines you will start flying with Horizon Airlines and then progress to Alaska Airlines. Most of the airlines have a commuter airline they work with to build your hours.
There is always the military.
You did not state your current age.
Here is the minimum age requirements: The FAA allows you to begin flight training at a young age. However, you must be 16 years old to fly solo and be at least 17 years old to officially receive your PPL. You must be proficient in English, hold a third-class medical certificate, and possess basic math skills.
Due to the expense of flight training, if you get hired by an airline in a position other than as a pilot, many of the airlines work with various flight schools and you are given a stipend once you reach a certain level in you flight training. Then after completing your flight training you are guaranteed an interview for a pilots position. In the case of Alaska Airlines you will start flying with Horizon Airlines and then progress to Alaska Airlines. Most of the airlines have a commuter airline they work with to build your hours.
There is always the military.
Mark Fulaytar
Airline Pilot
4
Answers
Auburn, Alabama
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Hi there. You did not say how old you are, but regardless of your age, it is never too late. As a former flight instructor, I have had students ranging from 16 years old all way up into early 70s. It is never too late. I am now an airline pilot and have met many different pilots who started at many different ages. If you have career aspirations as an airline pilot, depending on what country you are in, there may be age limitations. In the US, airline pilots must retire at age 65. However, there are many other types of flying out side of the airlines that do not have that restriction (charter, instructing, and corporate are a few examples).
It is never too late to start, you just have to take the first step!
It is never too late to start, you just have to take the first step!
Dr Fisch
Flight Attendant
28
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Everyone here so far is assuming you are young. Not making that assumption, pilots are usually forced to retire at the age of 65, but this may differ when compared across airlines and also where the airline is based (i.e., which country).
Destinee Russell
Senior Client Representative
4
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Destinee’s Answer
Hey, I found online the minimum age to become a pilot is typically 17 years of age. The type of license and aircraft one wants to fly plays a role in age criteria.
Doing your own research is always ideal for better understanding.
Destinee recommends the following next steps:
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
350
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Elsher,
It's never too late to pursue your dream of becoming a pilot! Many people start their flight training at various stages in life. Here are some steps to help you achieve your goal:
1. Research Flight Schools: Look for reputable flight schools in your area. Many flight schools offer discovery flights, which are short introductory flights that let you experience flying firsthand.
2. Meet Basic Requirements:
- Age: You need to be at least 16 years old to solo a powered aircraft, and at least 17 to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL).
- Medical Certificate: Obtain a medical certificate from an FAA-authorized aviation medical examiner. For a private pilot license, a third-class medical certificate is typically required.
3. Private Pilot License (PPL): Enroll in a flight training program to earn your PPL. This involves:
- Ground School: Learning the theoretical aspects of flying, including navigation, meteorology, and flight regulations.
- Flight Training: Logging a minimum of 40 flight hours, including solo flights and cross-country flights.
- Written Exam: Passing the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test.
- Checkride: Passing a practical test (checkride) with an FAA examiner.
4. Advanced Certifications: If you want to become a commercial pilot or airline transport pilot, you'll need additional training and certifications, such as an Instrument Rating (IR), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).
5. Consider College Programs: Some universities offer aviation degree programs that include flight training. This can be a good option if you want to combine your education with flight training.
6. Networking and Mentorship: Join aviation clubs, attend aviation events, and connect with other pilots. Mentorship can provide valuable guidance and support throughout your training.
7. Financial Planning: Flight training can be expensive, so it's important to plan for the costs. Look for scholarships, grants, and financing options to help fund your training.
Whether you're 17, 27, or older, you can pursue your passion for flying. With dedication and the right training, you can achieve your dream of becoming a pilot.
Best wishes!
It's never too late to pursue your dream of becoming a pilot! Many people start their flight training at various stages in life. Here are some steps to help you achieve your goal:
1. Research Flight Schools: Look for reputable flight schools in your area. Many flight schools offer discovery flights, which are short introductory flights that let you experience flying firsthand.
2. Meet Basic Requirements:
- Age: You need to be at least 16 years old to solo a powered aircraft, and at least 17 to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL).
- Medical Certificate: Obtain a medical certificate from an FAA-authorized aviation medical examiner. For a private pilot license, a third-class medical certificate is typically required.
3. Private Pilot License (PPL): Enroll in a flight training program to earn your PPL. This involves:
- Ground School: Learning the theoretical aspects of flying, including navigation, meteorology, and flight regulations.
- Flight Training: Logging a minimum of 40 flight hours, including solo flights and cross-country flights.
- Written Exam: Passing the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test.
- Checkride: Passing a practical test (checkride) with an FAA examiner.
4. Advanced Certifications: If you want to become a commercial pilot or airline transport pilot, you'll need additional training and certifications, such as an Instrument Rating (IR), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).
5. Consider College Programs: Some universities offer aviation degree programs that include flight training. This can be a good option if you want to combine your education with flight training.
6. Networking and Mentorship: Join aviation clubs, attend aviation events, and connect with other pilots. Mentorship can provide valuable guidance and support throughout your training.
7. Financial Planning: Flight training can be expensive, so it's important to plan for the costs. Look for scholarships, grants, and financing options to help fund your training.
Whether you're 17, 27, or older, you can pursue your passion for flying. With dedication and the right training, you can achieve your dream of becoming a pilot.
Best wishes!
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