🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 92 (from laksa003)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa092.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot","crawl_time":1775442674,"first_indexed_time":1507548004,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,wikihow!www,\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot s443","src_root_hash":"12431216878206919092","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Become an Airline Pilot","meta_descriptions":["Do you dream of soaring through the skies at high altitudes and getting paid for it? If so, being an airline pilot might be the perfect job for you! There are actually a few different paths you can take to become a pilot, and we've..."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Download Article\nDownload Article\nDo you dream of soaring through the skies at high altitudes and getting paid for it? If so, being an airline pilot might be the perfect job for you! There are actually a few different paths you can take to become a pilot, and we've outlined each one below to help you get started. Keep reading to learn how you can make your piloting dreams a reality and \"land\" your first piloting job.\nAlthough there are no high school course requirements for becoming an airline pilot, generally courses in math and science will be most helpful for your future career. Enroll in advanced placement classes if they are offered by your school.\n[1]\nConsider taking part in extracurricular activities related to flying. In the UK, for instance, you could join the Air Training Corps (ATC), a volunteer-military youth organization for people under the age of 18.\nA bachelor's degree or equivalent is required to become a pilot for a major airline. It's preferable to get a bachelor of science with an emphasis in aviation, but your degree doesn't necessarily have to be aviation related.\n[2]\nSome regional airlines only require a 2-year degree.\nCertain colleges and universities, such as the University of North Dakota, offer flight training in concurrence with academic classes.\n[3]\nAdvertisement\nMake an appointment with a certified aviation medical examiner. A doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination to ensure that you’re both physically and mentally capable of operating an airplane.\nContrary to popular belief, you can still become a professional pilot if you wear glasses or contacts, as long as your vision is correctable to 20\/20.\n[4]\nIn the United States, you must visit the office of a certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). A list of AMEs in your community can be found here:\nhttps:\/\/www.faa.gov\/pilots\/medical_certification\n[5]\nTraining generally comes in two forms: integrated and modular. Integrated training programs are more expensive, but allow you to complete your training more quickly—generally 14-18 months. Modular programs allow you to pay as you go and are better if you want to train part-time, potentially taking breaks between modules.\n[6]\nIf you’re in the United States, completing classes at an FAA-approved flight school can reduce the amount of flight experience required for a pilot’s license.\n[7]\nEnrolling in flight school and acquiring the required number of flight hours can be an incredibly expensive process. If you enlist in the military, however, your flight training will be subsidized. The flip side, of course, is that you must agree to a multi-year commitment to the armed forces (10 years, in the United States).\n[8]\nThe Air Force,\nNavy\n, Army, and Coast Guard offer flight training if you are a U.S. citizen.\nJob prospects are generally good for those leaving the military to become an airline pilot.\n[9]\nApply for a student pilot’s license through the official aviation board in your country. These licenses are free to apply for, but you may need your instructor sign-off to prove your skills.\nYou can start taking flying lessons before you’ve applied for a student pilot certificate, but you’ll need one to operate a plane by yourself. A private pilot’s license, your next step, requires a certain amount of solo flying hours.\nYou can often apply for a student pilot certificate at the same time as your medical certificate.\nThe written exam can be taken at any time before the practical exam—some instructors and flight schools require it to be completed successfully before you start flying.\n[10]\nThe test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.\n[11]\nHowever, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that you complete a solo cross-country flight before taking the written exam.\nTo take your practical exam, you must have completed 40 total hours of flight time. Those 40 hours must include a minimum of 10 hours flying solo, of which 5 must be a solo cross-country flight, and 20 hours with an instructor. The flight exam is administered by an FAA examiner and usually lasts 1-2 hours. You must provide your own plane for the exam.\nOnce you’ve completed this process, you’re officially a licensed pilot. You will be comfortable with the fundamentals of flying a single-engine plane.\nYou cannot receive payment for your services when you hold this license.\nAdvertisement\nAn instrument rating requires 50 hours of cross-country flight time while serving as the pilot in command. You also need 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument flight experience to qualify.\n[12]\nTo prove your flight hours, your instructor will review your pilot logbook and set up an appointment with a dedicated pilot examiner. Then, you’ll be asked to plan a cross-country flight using instrument flight rules (which you may or may not actually fly), as well as an oral exam and flight test.\n[13]\nThis rating allows you to pilot a plane during periods of low visibility, guided solely by the airplane’s instruments.\nTo qualify for an FAA Commercial Pilot License, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience. Like your private pilot license, you’ll need to pass a written and flight exam. The commercial certificate requires 250 flight hours (including 100 hours as pilot in command, 50 hours cross-country, and 10 hours of dual instruction in a complex aircraft).\nThe written exam for a commercial license contains 100 multiple choice questions. You will be given 3 hours to complete the test, and the minimum score is 70%.\nThe practical exam must be administered by an FAA-approved examiner, a list of which can be searched here:\nhttps:\/\/www.faa.gov\/other_visit\/aviation_industry\/designees_delegations\/find_designees\n.\nTo work as an airline pilot, you must acquire a multi-engine rating to fly planes with two engines.\n[14]\nYou’ll need an endorsement from your instructor and will also have to take a practical test that includes a detailed verbal test.\n[15]\nThe oral exam can be administered by the instructor and includes questions about weight and balance, aircraft systems, and minimum controllable airspeed.\n[16]\nNo written test is required.\nTo apply for this license, you must 23 years or older and have at least 1,500 hours of flying experience (that includes both night and instrument flying). You’ll also be required to pass written and flight examinations.\nThe written exam is multiple choice and addresses subjects like flight planning and monitoring, radio navigation, meteorology, and air law.\nThe practical exam is administered by either an FAA Inspector or an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. It’s divided into two sections: an oral exam and a test flight.\nThis license allows you to operate as the captain (or the “pilot in command”) of a commercial aircraft.\nAdvertisement\nTo work for a major airline, you will typically need 3,000 hours total flight time including at least 1,500 hours multi-engine, and at least 1,000 hours as pilot in command of a turbine-powered aircraft. To gain that experience, you can start by working at a regional airline, which often requires only 1,500 hours of flight time.\n[17]\nMany pilots start out at smaller airlines where they can gain experience flying on scheduled flights in a variety of weather conditions. Then, they use that experience to get higher paying jobs at bigger airlines.\nSome flight schools offer you flight hours in exchange for working as an instructor there. This is a very common route to earning the hours needed to fly for a major airline since it allows you to earn money and while building up your flight hours.\n[18]\nSimilarly, find a job as an instructor at a simulator company. Even if they cannot pay you a salary, see if you can trade your instructor hours for hours using the simulator and gaining experience to use in future job interviews.\n[19]\nSafety pilots, for instance, keep an eye out while another pilot is wearing a view-limiting device that simulates low-visibility weather conditions. You can donate your time while also earning flight hours. Or, if you are in the U.S., you can work with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP)—the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. It conducts search-and-rescue missions and educational flights for younger cadets using a feel of smaller aircraft.\nSome CAP flights require a private pilot’s license at minimum, while others have more stringent requirements.\nOptions include scenic flights, glider towing, aerial photography, towing banners, and pipeline patrol. These jobs may be hard to find when the market is bad for pilots, since other, more experienced pilots may be looking for work.\nThese jobs can usually be found via word-of-mouth or contacting businesses in your area that you think might be hiring part-time pilots.\nAdvertisement\nPrepare a one-page professional pilot\nresume\n. The resume should be broken down into sections with your contact information, ratings and flight hours, experience and chronological job history and any awards or accomplishments.\nAsk other pilots who have direct knowledge of your flying skills to write letters of recommendation.\nFigure out what types of planes they operate, as well as their hub cities. Look them up online to see if there’s been any recent news about the company. Also, make sure your logbook is complete and you have an accurate record of your flight time.\nCheck professional pilot websites where pilots share airline specific interview experiences.\nYou may want to bring copies of records such as college transcripts, military records, and licenses to the interview.\nIf the airline conducts a simulator check, rent a simulator at your local airport or flight school to brush up. Some companies offer airline-specific interview simulator preparation, although this specialty interview prep can be pricey.\nOnboarding for airline pilots typically includes a week of company training, 3-6 weeks of ground school and simulator training, and 25 hours of initial operating experience (including a check ride with an FAA aviation safety inspector).\n[20]\nOnce trained, you'll be required to complete regular training and simulator checks. These usually occur once or twice a year.\nDepending on the type of aircraft, new airline pilots start as first officers or flight engineers. Although some airlines favor applicants who already have a flight engineer’s license, they may provide flight engineer training for those who have only the commercial license.\nIn the airlines, advancement is usually predetermined by seniority provisions stated in union contracts. After a period of 1-5 years, you will likely be promoted to the role of first office.\n[21]\nA first officer (also known as the co-pilot) is the second-in-command to the captain.\nGaining seniority will also help you acquire preferred flight assignments. Your time with the airline will determine when you fly, if you fly on weekends, or if you'll be in the air during Christmas or other holidays.\n[22]\nAny time you change airlines, by choice or because you've been laid off or your airline has gone out of business, you will be starting at the bottom again at your new airline in terms of  your position, schedule, and pay—regardless of experience.\nAdvertisement\nAirline Pilot Resume\nSearch\nAdd New Question\nQuestion\nHow do you become an airline pilot?\nLewis Dixon is a pilot, flight instructor, and aviation content creator. With over 10 years of experience, Lewis has set out to inspire pilots and students by showing how much fun the aviation world can be. He has been sharing flight training, flying tips, advice, and more online @LewDixAviation since 2015. In 2016, Lewis became a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and later also became a Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). Over time his content has evolved to include instructional flights, mockumentaries and so much more, always with an emphasis on fun.\nPilot and Flight Instructor\nExpert Answer\nYou have to have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time before you can be an airline pilot. Now, there are exceptions to that. The certificate you need is called an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Certificate, which typically requires those 1,500 hours. However, if you complete an approved course with a certified flight training provider—something many big flight schools offer—you can obtain a restricted ATP. That can be achieved with about 1,250 hours, but it comes with limitations: you can only serve as second-in-command, and there are other restrictions until you reach the 1,500-hour mark and get the full ATP.\nA common way people build up to those hours is by becoming a flight instructor after earning their licenses. Once you’ve accumulated the hours, you then complete an ATP CTP course—that stands for Certification Training Program. It familiarizes you with the airline environment, especially crew resource management (CRM), which is a major part of airline flying.\nYou also get simulator time—about four hours in a full-motion simulator. At the end of that, you take a checkride—which includes an oral exam and practical exam in the simulator. If you pass, the FAA approves your paperwork, and you officially have your ATP Certificate with a type rating for the aircraft you trained on.\nQuestion\nWhat is the average investment made in the process of becoming a pilot?\nCommunity Answer\nThe average investment of money to obtain the average amount of flight training (dual, with an instructor & solo) for a private pilot license\/certificate is $10,000. The average investment of time required to study and pass the FAA private pilot written exam is about 500 hours. The average investment to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license\/certificate is 10X that of a private pilots license: $100,000 to obtain all necessary instruction and interim ratings (private, instrument, commercial, multi, ATP etc.) including approximately 5000 hours of time to study all the instruction materials to pass the required add-on knowledge exams, likely over the course of several years.\nQuestion\nI want to know which subjects a pilot needs to know the most?\nCommunity Answer\nYou'll need to have a knowledge of air navigation, interpretation of meteorological reports, operations of sophisticated electronic and mechanical controls, leading the aircraft under adverse circumstances, and being a leader to the flight crew and passengers under climatic and other emergency situations. Thus, useful subjects would include mathematics, sciences, management, communications (especially English, the language used by pilots internationally) and stress management.\nSee more answers\nAsk a Question\n200 characters left\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\nSubmit\nAdvertisement\nThanks for submitting a tip for review!\nFlying as a career is a stressful job. A pilot's ultimate responsibility—the safety of their passengers and cargo—means making a lot of personal sacrifices. You’ll be expected to undergo constant training and evaluation, drug and alcohol testing, background checks, and long hours.\nThanks\nAdvertisement\nReferences\nAbout This Article\nArticle Summary\nX\nIf you want to become an airline pilot, focus on taking math and science classes if you're still in school, since they'll be most the most helpful for your future career. You should also plan on getting your undergraduate degree if you don't already have one, which is required by most major airlines. Once you graduate, you can enroll in an accredited flight school and start gaining experience. For a cheaper option, you can join the military and train to be a pilot that way. Either way, you'll eventually need to take a written and practical exam to earn your pilot's license so you can start flying on your own!\nFor tips on how to find a job at an airline, scroll down!\nDid this summary help you?\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,258,154 times.\nReader Success Stories\nRuchi Nakum\nJul 6, 2016\n\"I'm very thankful for this website and those who wrote many questions and gave the answers.  I think it will\n...\"\nmore\nDid this article help you?","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to Content](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#breadcrumb_1)\n\n[Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Quizzes)\n\n- [PRO](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Pro)\n  [Courses Hot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Course\/Explore)   [Guides](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Guides)   [Tech Help Pro](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Tech-Help-Pro)   [Expert Videos](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Videos-wikiHowPro)   [About wikiHow Pro](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Pro)   [Upgrade](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#wh-dialog-pro)\n- [QUIZZES](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Quizzes)\n  [All Quizzes Hot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Quizzes)   [Love Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Love-Quizzes)   [Personality Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Personality-Quizzes)   [Trivia Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Trivia-Quizzes)   [Taylor Swift Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Taylor-Swift-Quizzes)\n- 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Learn why people **trust wikiHow**](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience)\n\n- [Categories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Special:CategoryListing \"Special:CategoryListing\")\n- [Cars & Other Vehicles](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Cars-%26-Other-Vehicles \"Category:Cars & Other Vehicles\")\n- [Aviation](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Aviation \"Category:Aviation\")\n- [Aviation Careers](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Aviation-Careers \"Category:Aviation Careers\")\n# [How to Become an Airline Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\nExplore this Article\n\nparts\n\n[1 Becoming a Private Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#Becoming-a-Private-Pilot)\n\n[2 Earning an Airline Transport Pilot's License](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#Earning-an-Airline-Transport-Pilot.27s-License)\n\n[3 Gaining Experience](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#Gaining-Experience)\n\n[4 Working at an Airline](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#Working-at-an-Airline)\n\n[Airline Pilot Resume](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#sample_Airline-Pilot-Resume)\n\n[\\+ Show 2 more...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n[\\- Show less...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\nOther Sections\n\n[Expert Q\\&A](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#qa_headline)\n\n[Tips and Warnings](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#warnings)\n\n[Related Articles](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#relatedwikihows)\n\n[References](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#References)\n\n[Article Summary](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#summary_wrapper)\n\n**Co-authored by** [Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner)\n\n[Last Updated: September 6, 2025](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)  [Approved](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\nX\n\nThis article was co-authored by [Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner). Gary Baumgardner is an airline pilot based in San Diego, CA. With over 18 years of experience, Gary is passionate about helping people overcome their fear of flying through a variety of methods. Gary offers an online course, Skybound: Courage to Fly Academy, which includes 1:1 sessions with experts like pilots, mechanics, and psychologists, and a Facebook support group. By sharing aviation expertise, insights from psychologists, and more, he hopes to provide a holistic approach to help individuals overcome their fear. Gary also shares behind-the-scenes and pilot insights on social media to his over 454k followers. He also hosts a free pilot mentoring program for aspiring pilots.   \n  \n There are [10 references](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#References) cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.   \n  \n wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 28 testimonials and 84% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status.   \n  \n This article has been viewed 2,258,154 times.\n\nDo you dream of soaring through the skies at high altitudes and getting paid for it? If so, being an airline pilot might be the perfect job for you! There are actually a few different paths you can take to become a pilot, and we've outlined each one below to help you get started. Keep reading to learn how you can make your piloting dreams a reality and \"land\" your first piloting job.\n## Steps\nPart 1\n\nPart 1 of 4:\n\n### Becoming a Private Pilot\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Graduate from high school with courses in math and science.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg)\n   1\n   **Graduate from high school with courses in math and science.** Although there are no high school course requirements for becoming an airline pilot, generally courses in math and science will be most helpful for your future career. Enroll in advanced placement classes if they are offered by your school.[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-1)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Javier Diaz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Javier_Diaz.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Javier_Diaz.png)Javier Diaz Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Javier-Diaz) Expert Interview\n   \n   - Consider taking part in extracurricular activities related to flying. In the UK, for instance, you could join the Air Training Corps (ATC), a volunteer-military youth organization for people under the age of 18.\n2. [![Step 2 Earn a 4-year college degree to fly for a large commercial airline.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg)\n   2\n   **Earn a 4-year college degree to fly for a large commercial airline.** A bachelor's degree or equivalent is required to become a pilot for a major airline. It's preferable to get a bachelor of science with an emphasis in aviation, but your degree doesn't necessarily have to be aviation related.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-2) X [Trustworthy Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n   \n   - Some regional airlines only require a 2-year degree.\n   - Certain colleges and universities, such as the University of North Dakota, offer flight training in concurrence with academic classes.[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-3) X Research source\n   Advertisement\n3. [![Step 3 Obtain a first-class medical certificate.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg)\n   3\n   **Obtain a first-class medical certificate.** Make an appointment with a certified aviation medical examiner. A doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination to ensure that you’re both physically and mentally capable of operating an airplane.\n   \n   - Contrary to popular belief, you can still become a professional pilot if you wear glasses or contacts, as long as your vision is correctable to 20\/20.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-4) X Research source\n   - In the United States, you must visit the office of a certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). A list of AMEs in your community can be found here: <https:\/\/www.faa.gov\/pilots\/medical_certification>\n4. [![Step 4 Enroll in an accredited flight school or training program to gain flight experience.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg)\n   4\n   **Enroll in an accredited flight school or training program to gain flight experience.**[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-5)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Javier Diaz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Javier_Diaz.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Javier_Diaz.png)Javier Diaz Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Javier-Diaz) Expert Interview  Training generally comes in two forms: integrated and modular. Integrated training programs are more expensive, but allow you to complete your training more quickly—generally 14-18 months. Modular programs allow you to pay as you go and are better if you want to train part-time, potentially taking breaks between modules.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-6) X Research source\n   \n   - If you’re in the United States, completing classes at an FAA-approved flight school can reduce the amount of flight experience required for a pilot’s license.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-7)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Gary_Baumgardner_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview\n5. [![Step 5 Consider military flight training for a subsidized option.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg)\n   5\n   **Consider military flight training for a subsidized option.** Enrolling in flight school and acquiring the required number of flight hours can be an incredibly expensive process. If you enlist in the military, however, your flight training will be subsidized. The flip side, of course, is that you must agree to a multi-year commitment to the armed forces (10 years, in the United States).[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-8) X [Trustworthy Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n   \n   - The Air Force, [Navy](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-a-Navy-Pilot \"Become a Navy Pilot\"), Army, and Coast Guard offer flight training if you are a U.S. citizen.\n   - Job prospects are generally good for those leaving the military to become an airline pilot.\n6. [![Step 6 Get a student pilot’s license to fly a plane on your own.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg)\n   6\n   **Get a student pilot’s license to fly a plane on your own.**[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-9)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Javier Diaz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Javier_Diaz.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Javier_Diaz.png)Javier Diaz Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Javier-Diaz) Expert Interview  Apply for a student pilot’s license through the official aviation board in your country. These licenses are free to apply for, but you may need your instructor sign-off to prove your skills.\n   \n   - You can start taking flying lessons before you’ve applied for a student pilot certificate, but you’ll need one to operate a plane by yourself. A private pilot’s license, your next step, requires a certain amount of solo flying hours.\n   - You can often apply for a student pilot certificate at the same time as your medical certificate.\n7. [![Step 7 Take a written exam to start earning your private pilot’s license.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg)\n   7\n   **Take a written exam to start earning your private pilot’s license.** The written exam can be taken at any time before the practical exam—some instructors and flight schools require it to be completed successfully before you start flying.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-10)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Gary_Baumgardner_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview  The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-11) X [Trustworthy Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) Federal Aviation Administration U.S. government agency responsible for monitoring and setting guidelines for civilian aviation [Go to source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n   \n   - However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that you complete a solo cross-country flight before taking the written exam.\n8. [![Step 8 Pass a practical flight exam and obtain your private pilot’s license.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a1\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)\n   8\n   **Pass a practical flight exam and obtain your **private pilot’s license**.** To take your practical exam, you must have completed 40 total hours of flight time. Those 40 hours must include a minimum of 10 hours flying solo, of which 5 must be a solo cross-country flight, and 20 hours with an instructor. The flight exam is administered by an FAA examiner and usually lasts 1-2 hours. You must provide your own plane for the exam.\n   \n   - Once you’ve completed this process, you’re officially a licensed pilot. You will be comfortable with the fundamentals of flying a single-engine plane.\n   - You cannot receive payment for your services when you hold this license.\n\nPart 2\n\nPart 2 of 4:\n\n### Earning an Airline Transport Pilot's License\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Add an instrument rating to fly in inclement weather.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e7\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg)\n   1\n   **Add an instrument rating to fly in inclement weather.** An instrument rating requires 50 hours of cross-country flight time while serving as the pilot in command. You also need 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument flight experience to qualify.[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-12)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Gary_Baumgardner_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview  To prove your flight hours, your instructor will review your pilot logbook and set up an appointment with a dedicated pilot examiner. Then, you’ll be asked to plan a cross-country flight using instrument flight rules (which you may or may not actually fly), as well as an oral exam and flight test.[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-13) X [Trustworthy Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n   \n   - This rating allows you to pilot a plane during periods of low visibility, guided solely by the airplane’s instruments.\n2. [![Step 2 Earn a commercial pilot’s license to be paid to fly.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg)\n   2\n   **Earn a commercial pilot’s license to be paid to fly.** To qualify for an FAA Commercial Pilot License, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience. Like your private pilot license, you’ll need to pass a written and flight exam. The commercial certificate requires 250 flight hours (including 100 hours as pilot in command, 50 hours cross-country, and 10 hours of dual instruction in a complex aircraft).\n   \n   - The written exam for a commercial license contains 100 multiple choice questions. You will be given 3 hours to complete the test, and the minimum score is 70%.\n   - The practical exam must be administered by an FAA-approved examiner, a list of which can be searched here: <https:\/\/www.faa.gov\/other_visit\/aviation_industry\/designees_delegations\/find_designees>.\n3. [![Step 3 Add a multi-engine rating to legally fly a twin engine aircraft.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg)\n   3\n   **Add a multi-engine rating to legally fly a twin engine aircraft.** To work as an airline pilot, you must acquire a multi-engine rating to fly planes with two engines.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-14)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Gary_Baumgardner_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview  You’ll need an endorsement from your instructor and will also have to take a practical test that includes a detailed verbal test. [\\[15\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-15) X Research source\n   \n   - The oral exam can be administered by the instructor and includes questions about weight and balance, aircraft systems, and minimum controllable airspeed.[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-16) X Research source\n   - No written test is required.\n4. [![Step 4 Earn your airline transport pilot’s license.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/72\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg)\n   4\n   **Earn your airline transport pilot’s license.** To apply for this license, you must 23 years or older and have at least 1,500 hours of flying experience (that includes both night and instrument flying). You’ll also be required to pass written and flight examinations.\n   \n   - The written exam is multiple choice and addresses subjects like flight planning and monitoring, radio navigation, meteorology, and air law.\n   - The practical exam is administered by either an FAA Inspector or an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. It’s divided into two sections: an oral exam and a test flight.\n   - This license allows you to operate as the captain (or the “pilot in command”) of a commercial aircraft.\n\nPart 3\n\nPart 3 of 4:\n\n### Gaining Experience\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Apply for jobs with regional airlines.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/07\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg)\n   1\n   **Apply for jobs with regional airlines.** To work for a major airline, you will typically need 3,000 hours total flight time including at least 1,500 hours multi-engine, and at least 1,000 hours as pilot in command of a turbine-powered aircraft. To gain that experience, you can start by working at a regional airline, which often requires only 1,500 hours of flight time.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-17) X [Trustworthy Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n   \n   - Many pilots start out at smaller airlines where they can gain experience flying on scheduled flights in a variety of weather conditions. Then, they use that experience to get higher paying jobs at bigger airlines.\n2. [![Step 2 Complete your certified flight instructor rating to work at a flight school.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg)\n   2\n   **Complete your certified flight instructor rating to work at a flight school.** Some flight schools offer you flight hours in exchange for working as an instructor there. This is a very common route to earning the hours needed to fly for a major airline since it allows you to earn money and while building up your flight hours.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-18) X [Trustworthy Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n   \n   - Similarly, find a job as an instructor at a simulator company. Even if they cannot pay you a salary, see if you can trade your instructor hours for hours using the simulator and gaining experience to use in future job interviews.[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-19) X Research source\n3. [![Step 3 Volunteer as a pilot to gain experience while helping others.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg)\n   3\n   **Volunteer as a pilot to gain experience while helping others.** Safety pilots, for instance, keep an eye out while another pilot is wearing a view-limiting device that simulates low-visibility weather conditions. You can donate your time while also earning flight hours. Or, if you are in the U.S., you can work with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP)—the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. It conducts search-and-rescue missions and educational flights for younger cadets using a feel of smaller aircraft.\n   \n   - Some CAP flights require a private pilot’s license at minimum, while others have more stringent requirements.\n4. [![Step 4 Find “low-time” pilot jobs in your community for additional hours.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/03\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg)\n   4\n   **Find “low-time” pilot jobs in your community for additional hours.** Options include scenic flights, glider towing, aerial photography, towing banners, and pipeline patrol. These jobs may be hard to find when the market is bad for pilots, since other, more experienced pilots may be looking for work.\n   \n   - These jobs can usually be found via word-of-mouth or contacting businesses in your area that you think might be hiring part-time pilots.\n\nPart 4\n\nPart 4 of 4:\n\n### Working at an Airline\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Apply to airlines as soon as you meet the minimum requirements.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg)\n   1\n   **Apply to airlines as soon as you meet the minimum requirements.** Prepare a one-page professional pilot [resume](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Make-a-Resume \"Make a Resume\"). The resume should be broken down into sections with your contact information, ratings and flight hours, experience and chronological job history and any awards or accomplishments.\n   \n   - Ask other pilots who have direct knowledge of your flying skills to write letters of recommendation.\n2. [![Step 2 Prepare for the interview by researching the airline.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f6\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg)\n   2\n   **Prepare for the interview by researching the airline.** Figure out what types of planes they operate, as well as their hub cities. Look them up online to see if there’s been any recent news about the company. Also, make sure your logbook is complete and you have an accurate record of your flight time.\n   \n   - Check professional pilot websites where pilots share airline specific interview experiences.\n   - You may want to bring copies of records such as college transcripts, military records, and licenses to the interview.\n   - If the airline conducts a simulator check, rent a simulator at your local airport or flight school to brush up. Some companies offer airline-specific interview simulator preparation, although this specialty interview prep can be pricey.\n3. [![Step 3 Complete your initial training once hired.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/98\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg)\n   3\n   **Complete your initial training once hired.** Onboarding for airline pilots typically includes a week of company training, 3-6 weeks of ground school and simulator training, and 25 hours of initial operating experience (including a check ride with an FAA aviation safety inspector).[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-20)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Gary_Baumgardner_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview\n   \n   - Once trained, you'll be required to complete regular training and simulator checks. These usually occur once or twice a year.\n4. [![Step 4 Start working at the airline as a flight engineer.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg)\n   4\n   **Start working at the airline as a flight engineer.** Depending on the type of aircraft, new airline pilots start as first officers or flight engineers. Although some airlines favor applicants who already have a flight engineer’s license, they may provide flight engineer training for those who have only the commercial license.\n5. [![Step 5 Advance to first officer after 1-5 years.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg)\n   5\n   **Advance to first officer after 1-5 years.** In the airlines, advancement is usually predetermined by seniority provisions stated in union contracts. After a period of 1-5 years, you will likely be promoted to the role of first office.[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-21) X [Trustworthy Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n   \n   - A first officer (also known as the co-pilot) is the second-in-command to the captain.\n6. [![Step 6 Become a captain after 5-15 years on the job.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/39\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg)\n   6\n   **Become a captain after 5-15 years on the job.** Gaining seniority will also help you acquire preferred flight assignments. Your time with the airline will determine when you fly, if you fly on weekends, or if you'll be in the air during Christmas or other holidays.[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-22) X [Trustworthy Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n   \n   - Any time you change airlines, by choice or because you've been laid off or your airline has gone out of business, you will be starting at the bottom again at your new airline in terms of your position, schedule, and pay—regardless of experience.\n\n### Airline Pilot Resume\n[![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/87\/Airline-Pilot-Resume_sample.png\/340px-Airline-Pilot-Resume_sample.png.webp)![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/87\/Airline-Pilot-Resume_sample.png\/340px-Airline-Pilot-Resume_sample.png) Sample Airline Pilot Resume](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Sample\/Airline-Pilot-Resume)\n\n## Expert Q\\&A\nSearch\n\n[Add New Question]()\n\n- Question\n  \n  How do you become an airline pilot?\n  \n  [![Lewis Dixon](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2a\/Lewis_Dixon_.png\/-crop-200-200-200px-Lewis_Dixon_.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Lewis-Dixon)\n  \n  [Lewis Dixon](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Lewis-Dixon)    \n   Pilot and Flight Instructor\n  \n  Lewis Dixon is a pilot, flight instructor, and aviation content creator. With over 10 years of experience, Lewis has set out to inspire pilots and students by showing how much fun the aviation world can be. He has been sharing flight training, flying tips, advice, and more online @LewDixAviation since 2015. In 2016, Lewis became a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and later also became a Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). Over time his content has evolved to include instructional flights, mockumentaries and so much more, always with an emphasis on fun.\n  \n  [![Lewis Dixon](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2a\/Lewis_Dixon_.png\/-crop-200-200-200px-Lewis_Dixon_.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Lewis-Dixon)\n  \n  [Lewis Dixon](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Lewis-Dixon)\n  \n  Pilot and Flight Instructor\n  \n  Expert Answer\n  \n  You have to have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time before you can be an airline pilot. Now, there are exceptions to that. The certificate you need is called an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Certificate, which typically requires those 1,500 hours. However, if you complete an approved course with a certified flight training provider—something many big flight schools offer—you can obtain a restricted ATP. That can be achieved with about 1,250 hours, but it comes with limitations: you can only serve as second-in-command, and there are other restrictions until you reach the 1,500-hour mark and get the full ATP. A common way people build up to those hours is by becoming a flight instructor after earning their licenses. Once you’ve accumulated the hours, you then complete an ATP CTP course—that stands for Certification Training Program. It familiarizes you with the airline environment, especially crew resource management (CRM), which is a major part of airline flying. You also get simulator time—about four hours in a full-motion simulator. At the end of that, you take a checkride—which includes an oral exam and practical exam in the simulator. If you pass, the FAA approves your paperwork, and you officially have your ATP Certificate with a type rating for the aircraft you trained on.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 0](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Helpful 0](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n- Question\n  \n  What is the average investment made in the process of becoming a pilot?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  The average investment of money to obtain the average amount of flight training (dual, with an instructor & solo) for a private pilot license\/certificate is \\$10,000. The average investment of time required to study and pass the FAA private pilot written exam is about 500 hours. The average investment to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license\/certificate is 10X that of a private pilots license: \\$100,000 to obtain all necessary instruction and interim ratings (private, instrument, commercial, multi, ATP etc.) including approximately 5000 hours of time to study all the instruction materials to pass the required add-on knowledge exams, likely over the course of several years.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 3](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Helpful 42](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n- Question\n  \n  I want to know which subjects a pilot needs to know the most?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  You'll need to have a knowledge of air navigation, interpretation of meteorological reports, operations of sophisticated electronic and mechanical controls, leading the aircraft under adverse circumstances, and being a leader to the flight crew and passengers under climatic and other emergency situations. Thus, useful subjects would include mathematics, sciences, management, communications (especially English, the language used by pilots internationally) and stress management.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 25](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Helpful 177](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n[See more answers](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Questions\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#offset=3)\n\nAsk a Question\n\n200 characters left\n\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\n\n[Submit]()\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## Tips\nSubmit a Tip\n\nAll tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published\n\nName\n\nPlease provide your name and last initial\n\n[Submit](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\nThanks for submitting a tip for review\\!\n\n## Warnings\n- Flying as a career is a stressful job. A pilot's ultimate responsibility—the safety of their passengers and cargo—means making a lot of personal sacrifices. You’ll be expected to undergo constant training and evaluation, drug and alcohol testing, background checks, and long hours.\n  Thanks\n  \n  [Helpful 1](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)   [Not Helpful 0](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## You Might Also Like\n[![Get an Airline Job](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0a\/Get-an-Airline-Job-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Get-an-Airline-Job-Step-8-Version-2.jpg.webp) How to Get an Airline Job ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0a\/Get-an-Airline-Job-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Get-an-Airline-Job-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Get-an-Airline-Job)\n\n[![Become a Navy Pilot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/05\/Become-a-Navy-Pilot-Step-10.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-a-Navy-Pilot-Step-10.jpg.webp) How to Become a Navy Pilot 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Captain](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7e\/Become-a-Boat-Captain-Step-20.jpg\/-crop-342-184-246px-Become-a-Boat-Captain-Step-20.jpg.webp) How to Become a Boat Captain ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7e\/Become-a-Boat-Captain-Step-20.jpg\/-crop-342-184-246px-Become-a-Boat-Captain-Step-20.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-a-Boat-Captain)\n\n[![Become a Flight Attendant](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Become-a-Flight-Attendant-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-a-Flight-Attendant-Step-12-Version-2.jpg.webp) How to Become a Flight Attendant ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Become-a-Flight-Attendant-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-a-Flight-Attendant-Step-12-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-a-Flight-Attendant)\n\n[![Become a Truck Driver](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0c\/Become-a-Truck-Driver-Step-13.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-a-Truck-Driver-Step-13.jpg.webp) How to Become a Truck Driver ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0c\/Become-a-Truck-Driver-Step-13.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-a-Truck-Driver-Step-13.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-a-Truck-Driver)\n\n[![Become a Train Driver](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/Become-a-Train-Driver-Step-10.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-a-Train-Driver-Step-10.jpg.webp) How to Become a Train Driver ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/Become-a-Train-Driver-Step-10.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-a-Train-Driver-Step-10.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-a-Train-Driver)\n\n[![Get a School Bus Driver's License](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Get-a-School-Bus-Driver%27s-License-Step-11.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Get-a-School-Bus-Driver%27s-License-Step-11.jpg.webp) How to Get a School Bus Driver's License ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Get-a-School-Bus-Driver%27s-License-Step-11.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Get-a-School-Bus-Driver%27s-License-Step-11.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Get-a-School-Bus-Driver%27s-License)\n\n[![Become an Air Force Officer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Become-an-Air-Force-Officer-Step-32.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-an-Air-Force-Officer-Step-32.jpg.webp) How to Become an Air Force Officer ![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Become-an-Air-Force-Officer-Step-32.jpg\/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-an-Air-Force-Officer-Step-32.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Air-Force-Officer)\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## References\n1. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-1) Javier Diaz. Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot. Expert Interview\n2. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-2) <https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/transportation-and-material-moving\/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4>\n3. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-3) <http:\/\/aviation.und.edu\/>\n4. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-4) <https:\/\/www.pilotcareernews.com\/how-to-be-a-pilot\/>\n5. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-5) Javier Diaz. Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot. Expert Interview\n6. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-6) <https:\/\/www.pilotcareernews.com\/pilot-training-integrated-vs-modular\/>\n7. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-7) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview\n8. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-8) <https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/transportation-and-material-moving\/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4>\n9. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-9) Javier Diaz. Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot. Expert Interview\n\n[More References (13)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#aiinfo)\n\n1. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-10) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview\n2. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-11) <https:\/\/www.faa.gov\/pilots\/become\/knowledge\/>\n3. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-12) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview\n4. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-13) <https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/transportation-and-material-moving\/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4>\n5. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-14) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview\n6. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-15) <https:\/\/www.pea.com\/blog\/posts\/difference-pilot-certificates-ratings-endorsements\/>\n7. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-16) <http:\/\/www.stcharlesflyingservice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/metp.pdf>\n8. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-17) <https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/transportation-and-material-moving\/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4>\n9. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-18) <https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/transportation-and-material-moving\/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4>\n10. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-19) <https:\/\/dutchpilotgirl.com\/unemployed-pilot\/>\n11. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-20) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview\n12. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-21) <https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/transportation-and-material-moving\/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4>\n13. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-22) <https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/transportation-and-material-moving\/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4>\n\n## About This Article\n![Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Gary_Baumgardner_.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)\n\nCo-authored by:\n\n[Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner)\n\nPilot\n\nThis article was co-authored by [Gary Baumgardner](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Gary-Baumgardner). Gary Baumgardner is an airline pilot based in San Diego, CA. With over 18 years of experience, Gary is passionate about helping people overcome their fear of flying through a variety of methods. Gary offers an online course, Skybound: Courage to Fly Academy, which includes 1:1 sessions with experts like pilots, mechanics, and psychologists, and a Facebook support group. By sharing aviation expertise, insights from psychologists, and more, he hopes to provide a holistic approach to help individuals overcome their fear. Gary also shares behind-the-scenes and pilot insights on social media to his over 454k followers. He also hosts a free pilot mentoring program for aspiring pilots. This article has been viewed 2,258,154 times.\n\n18 votes - 84%\n\nCo-authors: 169\n\nUpdated: September 6, 2025\n\nViews: 2,258,154\n\nCategories: [Featured Articles](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Featured-Articles \"Category:Featured Articles\") \\| [Aviation Careers](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Aviation-Careers \"Category:Aviation Careers\")\n\n[Article SummaryX](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#summary_wrapper)\n\nIf you want to become an airline pilot, focus on taking math and science classes if you're still in school, since they'll be most the most helpful for your future career. You should also plan on getting your undergraduate degree if you don't already have one, which is required by most major airlines. Once you graduate, you can enroll in an accredited flight school and start gaining experience. For a cheaper option, you can join the military and train to be a pilot that way. Either way, you'll eventually need to take a written and practical exam to earn your pilot's license so you can start flying on your own! For tips on how to find a job at an airline, scroll down\\!\n\nDid this summary help you?\n\nYes\n\nNo\n\n[In other languages](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#other_languages)\n\n[Spanish](https:\/\/es.wikihow.com\/ser-un-piloto-de-aerol%C3%ADneas)\n\n- [Print](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n- [Send fan mail to authors](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,258,154 times.\n\n## Reader Success Stories\n- ![Ruchi Nakum](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n  \n  Ruchi Nakum\n  \n  Jul 6, 2016\n  \"I'm very thankful for this website and those who wrote many questions and gave the answers. 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Please contact [support@wikihow.pro](mailto:support@wikihow.pro).\n\nSomething went wrong\n\n[Dismiss]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n\nDo you dream of soaring through the skies at high altitudes and getting paid for it? If so, being an airline pilot might be the perfect job for you! There are actually a few different paths you can take to become a pilot, and we've outlined each one below to help you get started. Keep reading to learn how you can make your piloting dreams a reality and \"land\" your first piloting job.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Graduate from high school with courses in math and science.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg)\n   Although there are no high school course requirements for becoming an airline pilot, generally courses in math and science will be most helpful for your future career. Enroll in advanced placement classes if they are offered by your school.[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-1)\n   \n   - Consider taking part in extracurricular activities related to flying. In the UK, for instance, you could join the Air Training Corps (ATC), a volunteer-military youth organization for people under the age of 18.\n2. [![Step 2 Earn a 4-year college degree to fly for a large commercial airline.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg)\n   A bachelor's degree or equivalent is required to become a pilot for a major airline. It's preferable to get a bachelor of science with an emphasis in aviation, but your degree doesn't necessarily have to be aviation related.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-2)\n   \n   - Some regional airlines only require a 2-year degree.\n   - Certain colleges and universities, such as the University of North Dakota, offer flight training in concurrence with academic classes.[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-3)\n   Advertisement\n3. [![Step 3 Obtain a first-class medical certificate.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg)\n   Make an appointment with a certified aviation medical examiner. A doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination to ensure that you’re both physically and mentally capable of operating an airplane.\n   \n   - Contrary to popular belief, you can still become a professional pilot if you wear glasses or contacts, as long as your vision is correctable to 20\/20.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-4)\n   - In the United States, you must visit the office of a certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). A list of AMEs in your community can be found here: <https:\/\/www.faa.gov\/pilots\/medical_certification>\n4. [![Step 4 Enroll in an accredited flight school or training program to gain flight experience.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg)\n   [\\[5\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-5)  Training generally comes in two forms: integrated and modular. Integrated training programs are more expensive, but allow you to complete your training more quickly—generally 14-18 months. Modular programs allow you to pay as you go and are better if you want to train part-time, potentially taking breaks between modules.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-6)\n   \n   - If you’re in the United States, completing classes at an FAA-approved flight school can reduce the amount of flight experience required for a pilot’s license.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-7)\n5. [![Step 5 Consider military flight training for a subsidized option.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg)\n   Enrolling in flight school and acquiring the required number of flight hours can be an incredibly expensive process. If you enlist in the military, however, your flight training will be subsidized. The flip side, of course, is that you must agree to a multi-year commitment to the armed forces (10 years, in the United States).[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-8)\n   \n   - The Air Force, [Navy](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-a-Navy-Pilot \"Become a Navy Pilot\"), Army, and Coast Guard offer flight training if you are a U.S. citizen.\n   - Job prospects are generally good for those leaving the military to become an airline pilot.\n6. [![Step 6 Get a student pilot’s license to fly a plane on your own.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg)\n   [\\[9\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-9)  Apply for a student pilot’s license through the official aviation board in your country. These licenses are free to apply for, but you may need your instructor sign-off to prove your skills.\n   \n   - You can start taking flying lessons before you’ve applied for a student pilot certificate, but you’ll need one to operate a plane by yourself. A private pilot’s license, your next step, requires a certain amount of solo flying hours.\n   - You can often apply for a student pilot certificate at the same time as your medical certificate.\n7. [![Step 7 Take a written exam to start earning your private pilot’s license.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg)\n   The written exam can be taken at any time before the practical exam—some instructors and flight schools require it to be completed successfully before you start flying.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-10)  The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-11)\n   \n   - However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that you complete a solo cross-country flight before taking the written exam.\n8. [![Step 8 Pass a practical flight exam and obtain your private pilot’s license.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a1\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)\n   To take your practical exam, you must have completed 40 total hours of flight time. Those 40 hours must include a minimum of 10 hours flying solo, of which 5 must be a solo cross-country flight, and 20 hours with an instructor. The flight exam is administered by an FAA examiner and usually lasts 1-2 hours. You must provide your own plane for the exam.\n   \n   - Once you’ve completed this process, you’re officially a licensed pilot. You will be comfortable with the fundamentals of flying a single-engine plane.\n   - You cannot receive payment for your services when you hold this license.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Add an instrument rating to fly in inclement weather.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e7\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg)\n   An instrument rating requires 50 hours of cross-country flight time while serving as the pilot in command. You also need 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument flight experience to qualify.[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-12)  To prove your flight hours, your instructor will review your pilot logbook and set up an appointment with a dedicated pilot examiner. Then, you’ll be asked to plan a cross-country flight using instrument flight rules (which you may or may not actually fly), as well as an oral exam and flight test.[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-13)\n   \n   - This rating allows you to pilot a plane during periods of low visibility, guided solely by the airplane’s instruments.\n2. [![Step 2 Earn a commercial pilot’s license to be paid to fly.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg)\n   To qualify for an FAA Commercial Pilot License, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience. Like your private pilot license, you’ll need to pass a written and flight exam. The commercial certificate requires 250 flight hours (including 100 hours as pilot in command, 50 hours cross-country, and 10 hours of dual instruction in a complex aircraft).\n   \n   - The written exam for a commercial license contains 100 multiple choice questions. You will be given 3 hours to complete the test, and the minimum score is 70%.\n   - The practical exam must be administered by an FAA-approved examiner, a list of which can be searched here: <https:\/\/www.faa.gov\/other_visit\/aviation_industry\/designees_delegations\/find_designees>.\n3. [![Step 3 Add a multi-engine rating to legally fly a twin engine aircraft.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg)\n   To work as an airline pilot, you must acquire a multi-engine rating to fly planes with two engines.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-14)  You’ll need an endorsement from your instructor and will also have to take a practical test that includes a detailed verbal test. [\\[15\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-15)\n   \n   - The oral exam can be administered by the instructor and includes questions about weight and balance, aircraft systems, and minimum controllable airspeed.[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-16)\n   - No written test is required.\n4. [![Step 4 Earn your airline transport pilot’s license.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/72\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg)\n   To apply for this license, you must 23 years or older and have at least 1,500 hours of flying experience (that includes both night and instrument flying). You’ll also be required to pass written and flight examinations.\n   \n   - The written exam is multiple choice and addresses subjects like flight planning and monitoring, radio navigation, meteorology, and air law.\n   - The practical exam is administered by either an FAA Inspector or an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. It’s divided into two sections: an oral exam and a test flight.\n   - This license allows you to operate as the captain (or the “pilot in command”) of a commercial aircraft.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Apply for jobs with regional airlines.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/07\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg)\n   To work for a major airline, you will typically need 3,000 hours total flight time including at least 1,500 hours multi-engine, and at least 1,000 hours as pilot in command of a turbine-powered aircraft. To gain that experience, you can start by working at a regional airline, which often requires only 1,500 hours of flight time.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-17)\n   \n   - Many pilots start out at smaller airlines where they can gain experience flying on scheduled flights in a variety of weather conditions. Then, they use that experience to get higher paying jobs at bigger airlines.\n2. [![Step 2 Complete your certified flight instructor rating to work at a flight school.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg)\n   Some flight schools offer you flight hours in exchange for working as an instructor there. This is a very common route to earning the hours needed to fly for a major airline since it allows you to earn money and while building up your flight hours.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-18)\n   \n   - Similarly, find a job as an instructor at a simulator company. Even if they cannot pay you a salary, see if you can trade your instructor hours for hours using the simulator and gaining experience to use in future job interviews.[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-19)\n3. [![Step 3 Volunteer as a pilot to gain experience while helping others.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5b\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg)\n   Safety pilots, for instance, keep an eye out while another pilot is wearing a view-limiting device that simulates low-visibility weather conditions. You can donate your time while also earning flight hours. Or, if you are in the U.S., you can work with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP)—the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. It conducts search-and-rescue missions and educational flights for younger cadets using a feel of smaller aircraft.\n   \n   - Some CAP flights require a private pilot’s license at minimum, while others have more stringent requirements.\n4. [![Step 4 Find “low-time” pilot jobs in your community for additional hours.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/03\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg)\n   Options include scenic flights, glider towing, aerial photography, towing banners, and pipeline patrol. These jobs may be hard to find when the market is bad for pilots, since other, more experienced pilots may be looking for work.\n   \n   - These jobs can usually be found via word-of-mouth or contacting businesses in your area that you think might be hiring part-time pilots.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Apply to airlines as soon as you meet the minimum requirements.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg)\n   Prepare a one-page professional pilot [resume](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Make-a-Resume \"Make a Resume\"). The resume should be broken down into sections with your contact information, ratings and flight hours, experience and chronological job history and any awards or accomplishments.\n   \n   - Ask other pilots who have direct knowledge of your flying skills to write letters of recommendation.\n2. [![Step 2 Prepare for the interview by researching the airline.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f6\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg)\n   Figure out what types of planes they operate, as well as their hub cities. Look them up online to see if there’s been any recent news about the company. Also, make sure your logbook is complete and you have an accurate record of your flight time.\n   \n   - Check professional pilot websites where pilots share airline specific interview experiences.\n   - You may want to bring copies of records such as college transcripts, military records, and licenses to the interview.\n   - If the airline conducts a simulator check, rent a simulator at your local airport or flight school to brush up. Some companies offer airline-specific interview simulator preparation, although this specialty interview prep can be pricey.\n3. [![Step 3 Complete your initial training once hired.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/98\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg)\n   Onboarding for airline pilots typically includes a week of company training, 3-6 weeks of ground school and simulator training, and 25 hours of initial operating experience (including a check ride with an FAA aviation safety inspector).[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-20)\n   \n   - Once trained, you'll be required to complete regular training and simulator checks. These usually occur once or twice a year.\n4. [![Step 4 Start working at the airline as a flight engineer.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg)\n   Depending on the type of aircraft, new airline pilots start as first officers or flight engineers. Although some airlines favor applicants who already have a flight engineer’s license, they may provide flight engineer training for those who have only the commercial license.\n5. [![Step 5 Advance to first officer after 1-5 years.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg)\n   In the airlines, advancement is usually predetermined by seniority provisions stated in union contracts. After a period of 1-5 years, you will likely be promoted to the role of first office.[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-21)\n   \n   - A first officer (also known as the co-pilot) is the second-in-command to the captain.\n6. [![Step 6 Become a captain after 5-15 years on the job.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/39\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#\/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg)\n   Gaining seniority will also help you acquire preferred flight assignments. Your time with the airline will determine when you fly, if you fly on weekends, or if you'll be in the air during Christmas or other holidays.[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-22)\n   \n   - Any time you change airlines, by choice or because you've been laid off or your airline has gone out of business, you will be starting at the bottom again at your new airline in terms of your position, schedule, and pay—regardless of experience.\n\nAirline Pilot Resume\n\nSearch\n\n[Add New Question]()\n\n- Question\n  \n  How do you become an airline pilot?\n  \n  [![Lewis Dixon](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2a\/Lewis_Dixon_.png\/-crop-200-200-200px-Lewis_Dixon_.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Lewis-Dixon)\n  \n  Lewis Dixon is a pilot, flight instructor, and aviation content creator. With over 10 years of experience, Lewis has set out to inspire pilots and students by showing how much fun the aviation world can be. He has been sharing flight training, flying tips, advice, and more online @LewDixAviation since 2015. In 2016, Lewis became a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and later also became a Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). Over time his content has evolved to include instructional flights, mockumentaries and so much more, always with an emphasis on fun.\n  \n  [![Lewis Dixon](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2a\/Lewis_Dixon_.png\/-crop-200-200-200px-Lewis_Dixon_.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Lewis-Dixon)\n  \n  Pilot and Flight Instructor\n  \n  Expert Answer\n  \n  You have to have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time before you can be an airline pilot. Now, there are exceptions to that. The certificate you need is called an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Certificate, which typically requires those 1,500 hours. However, if you complete an approved course with a certified flight training provider—something many big flight schools offer—you can obtain a restricted ATP. That can be achieved with about 1,250 hours, but it comes with limitations: you can only serve as second-in-command, and there are other restrictions until you reach the 1,500-hour mark and get the full ATP. A common way people build up to those hours is by becoming a flight instructor after earning their licenses. Once you’ve accumulated the hours, you then complete an ATP CTP course—that stands for Certification Training Program. It familiarizes you with the airline environment, especially crew resource management (CRM), which is a major part of airline flying. You also get simulator time—about four hours in a full-motion simulator. At the end of that, you take a checkride—which includes an oral exam and practical exam in the simulator. If you pass, the FAA approves your paperwork, and you officially have your ATP Certificate with a type rating for the aircraft you trained on.\n- Question\n  \n  What is the average investment made in the process of becoming a pilot?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  The average investment of money to obtain the average amount of flight training (dual, with an instructor & solo) for a private pilot license\/certificate is \\$10,000. The average investment of time required to study and pass the FAA private pilot written exam is about 500 hours. The average investment to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license\/certificate is 10X that of a private pilots license: \\$100,000 to obtain all necessary instruction and interim ratings (private, instrument, commercial, multi, ATP etc.) including approximately 5000 hours of time to study all the instruction materials to pass the required add-on knowledge exams, likely over the course of several years.\n- Question\n  \n  I want to know which subjects a pilot needs to know the most?\n  \n  ![Community Answer](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n  \n  Community Answer\n  \n  You'll need to have a knowledge of air navigation, interpretation of meteorological reports, operations of sophisticated electronic and mechanical controls, leading the aircraft under adverse circumstances, and being a leader to the flight crew and passengers under climatic and other emergency situations. Thus, useful subjects would include mathematics, sciences, management, communications (especially English, the language used by pilots internationally) and stress management.\n\n[See more answers](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Questions\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#offset=3)\n\nAsk a Question\n\n200 characters left\n\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\n\n[Submit]()\n\nAdvertisement\n\nThanks for submitting a tip for review\\!\n\n- Flying as a career is a stressful job. A pilot's ultimate responsibility—the safety of their passengers and cargo—means making a lot of personal sacrifices. You’ll be expected to undergo constant training and evaluation, drug and alcohol testing, background checks, and long hours.\n  Thanks\n\nAdvertisement\n## References\nAbout This Article\n\n[Article SummaryX](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#summary_wrapper)\n\nIf you want to become an airline pilot, focus on taking math and science classes if you're still in school, since they'll be most the most helpful for your future career. You should also plan on getting your undergraduate degree if you don't already have one, which is required by most major airlines. Once you graduate, you can enroll in an accredited flight school and start gaining experience. For a cheaper option, you can join the military and train to be a pilot that way. Either way, you'll eventually need to take a written and practical exam to earn your pilot's license so you can start flying on your own! For tips on how to find a job at an airline, scroll down\\!\n\nDid this summary help you?\n\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,258,154 times.\n\nReader Success Stories\n\n- ![Ruchi Nakum](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n  \n  Ruchi Nakum\n  \n  Jul 6, 2016\n  \"I'm very thankful for this website and those who wrote many questions and gave the answers. I think it will...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Become-an-Airline-Pilot)\n## Did this article help you?","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Download Article Download Article Do you dream of soaring through the skies at high altitudes and getting paid for it? If so, being an airline pilot might be the perfect job for you! There are actually a few different paths you can take to become a pilot, and we've outlined each one below to help you get started. Keep reading to learn how you can make your piloting dreams a reality and "land" your first piloting job. Although there are no high school course requirements for becoming an airline pilot, generally courses in math and science will be most helpful for your future career. Enroll in advanced placement classes if they are offered by your school. [1] Consider taking part in extracurricular activities related to flying. In the UK, for instance, you could join the Air Training Corps (ATC), a volunteer-military youth organization for people under the age of 18. A bachelor's degree or equivalent is required to become a pilot for a major airline. It's preferable to get a bachelor of science with an emphasis in aviation, but your degree doesn't necessarily have to be aviation related. [2] Some regional airlines only require a 2-year degree. Certain colleges and universities, such as the University of North Dakota, offer flight training in concurrence with academic classes. [3] Advertisement Make an appointment with a certified aviation medical examiner. A doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination to ensure that you’re both physically and mentally capable of operating an airplane. Contrary to popular belief, you can still become a professional pilot if you wear glasses or contacts, as long as your vision is correctable to 20/20. [4] In the United States, you must visit the office of a certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). A list of AMEs in your community can be found here: https://www.faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification [5] Training generally comes in two forms: integrated and modular. Integrated training programs are more expensive, but allow you to complete your training more quickly—generally 14-18 months. Modular programs allow you to pay as you go and are better if you want to train part-time, potentially taking breaks between modules. [6] If you’re in the United States, completing classes at an FAA-approved flight school can reduce the amount of flight experience required for a pilot’s license. [7] Enrolling in flight school and acquiring the required number of flight hours can be an incredibly expensive process. If you enlist in the military, however, your flight training will be subsidized. The flip side, of course, is that you must agree to a multi-year commitment to the armed forces (10 years, in the United States). [8] The Air Force, Navy , Army, and Coast Guard offer flight training if you are a U.S. citizen. Job prospects are generally good for those leaving the military to become an airline pilot. [9] Apply for a student pilot’s license through the official aviation board in your country. These licenses are free to apply for, but you may need your instructor sign-off to prove your skills. You can start taking flying lessons before you’ve applied for a student pilot certificate, but you’ll need one to operate a plane by yourself. A private pilot’s license, your next step, requires a certain amount of solo flying hours. You can often apply for a student pilot certificate at the same time as your medical certificate. The written exam can be taken at any time before the practical exam—some instructors and flight schools require it to be completed successfully before you start flying. [10] The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. [11] However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that you complete a solo cross-country flight before taking the written exam. To take your practical exam, you must have completed 40 total hours of flight time. Those 40 hours must include a minimum of 10 hours flying solo, of which 5 must be a solo cross-country flight, and 20 hours with an instructor. The flight exam is administered by an FAA examiner and usually lasts 1-2 hours. You must provide your own plane for the exam. Once you’ve completed this process, you’re officially a licensed pilot. You will be comfortable with the fundamentals of flying a single-engine plane. You cannot receive payment for your services when you hold this license. Advertisement An instrument rating requires 50 hours of cross-country flight time while serving as the pilot in command. You also need 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument flight experience to qualify. [12] To prove your flight hours, your instructor will review your pilot logbook and set up an appointment with a dedicated pilot examiner. Then, you’ll be asked to plan a cross-country flight using instrument flight rules (which you may or may not actually fly), as well as an oral exam and flight test. [13] This rating allows you to pilot a plane during periods of low visibility, guided solely by the airplane’s instruments. To qualify for an FAA Commercial Pilot License, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience. Like your private pilot license, you’ll need to pass a written and flight exam. The commercial certificate requires 250 flight hours (including 100 hours as pilot in command, 50 hours cross-country, and 10 hours of dual instruction in a complex aircraft). The written exam for a commercial license contains 100 multiple choice questions. You will be given 3 hours to complete the test, and the minimum score is 70%. The practical exam must be administered by an FAA-approved examiner, a list of which can be searched here: https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/designees_delegations/find_designees . To work as an airline pilot, you must acquire a multi-engine rating to fly planes with two engines. [14] You’ll need an endorsement from your instructor and will also have to take a practical test that includes a detailed verbal test. [15] The oral exam can be administered by the instructor and includes questions about weight and balance, aircraft systems, and minimum controllable airspeed. [16] No written test is required. To apply for this license, you must 23 years or older and have at least 1,500 hours of flying experience (that includes both night and instrument flying). You’ll also be required to pass written and flight examinations. The written exam is multiple choice and addresses subjects like flight planning and monitoring, radio navigation, meteorology, and air law. The practical exam is administered by either an FAA Inspector or an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. It’s divided into two sections: an oral exam and a test flight. This license allows you to operate as the captain (or the “pilot in command”) of a commercial aircraft. Advertisement To work for a major airline, you will typically need 3,000 hours total flight time including at least 1,500 hours multi-engine, and at least 1,000 hours as pilot in command of a turbine-powered aircraft. To gain that experience, you can start by working at a regional airline, which often requires only 1,500 hours of flight time. [17] Many pilots start out at smaller airlines where they can gain experience flying on scheduled flights in a variety of weather conditions. Then, they use that experience to get higher paying jobs at bigger airlines. Some flight schools offer you flight hours in exchange for working as an instructor there. This is a very common route to earning the hours needed to fly for a major airline since it allows you to earn money and while building up your flight hours. [18] Similarly, find a job as an instructor at a simulator company. Even if they cannot pay you a salary, see if you can trade your instructor hours for hours using the simulator and gaining experience to use in future job interviews. [19] Safety pilots, for instance, keep an eye out while another pilot is wearing a view-limiting device that simulates low-visibility weather conditions. You can donate your time while also earning flight hours. Or, if you are in the U.S., you can work with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP)—the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. It conducts search-and-rescue missions and educational flights for younger cadets using a feel of smaller aircraft. Some CAP flights require a private pilot’s license at minimum, while others have more stringent requirements. Options include scenic flights, glider towing, aerial photography, towing banners, and pipeline patrol. These jobs may be hard to find when the market is bad for pilots, since other, more experienced pilots may be looking for work. These jobs can usually be found via word-of-mouth or contacting businesses in your area that you think might be hiring part-time pilots. Advertisement Prepare a one-page professional pilot resume . The resume should be broken down into sections with your contact information, ratings and flight hours, experience and chronological job history and any awards or accomplishments. Ask other pilots who have direct knowledge of your flying skills to write letters of recommendation. Figure out what types of planes they operate, as well as their hub cities. Look them up online to see if there’s been any recent news about the company. Also, make sure your logbook is complete and you have an accurate record of your flight time. Check professional pilot websites where pilots share airline specific interview experiences. You may want to bring copies of records such as college transcripts, military records, and licenses to the interview. If the airline conducts a simulator check, rent a simulator at your local airport or flight school to brush up. Some companies offer airline-specific interview simulator preparation, although this specialty interview prep can be pricey. Onboarding for airline pilots typically includes a week of company training, 3-6 weeks of ground school and simulator training, and 25 hours of initial operating experience (including a check ride with an FAA aviation safety inspector). [20] Once trained, you'll be required to complete regular training and simulator checks. These usually occur once or twice a year. Depending on the type of aircraft, new airline pilots start as first officers or flight engineers. Although some airlines favor applicants who already have a flight engineer’s license, they may provide flight engineer training for those who have only the commercial license. In the airlines, advancement is usually predetermined by seniority provisions stated in union contracts. After a period of 1-5 years, you will likely be promoted to the role of first office. [21] A first officer (also known as the co-pilot) is the second-in-command to the captain. Gaining seniority will also help you acquire preferred flight assignments. Your time with the airline will determine when you fly, if you fly on weekends, or if you'll be in the air during Christmas or other holidays. [22] Any time you change airlines, by choice or because you've been laid off or your airline has gone out of business, you will be starting at the bottom again at your new airline in terms of your position, schedule, and pay—regardless of experience. Advertisement Airline Pilot Resume Search Add New Question Question How do you become an airline pilot? Lewis Dixon is a pilot, flight instructor, and aviation content creator. With over 10 years of experience, Lewis has set out to inspire pilots and students by showing how much fun the aviation world can be. He has been sharing flight training, flying tips, advice, and more online @LewDixAviation since 2015. In 2016, Lewis became a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and later also became a Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). Over time his content has evolved to include instructional flights, mockumentaries and so much more, always with an emphasis on fun. Pilot and Flight Instructor Expert Answer You have to have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time before you can be an airline pilot. Now, there are exceptions to that. The certificate you need is called an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Certificate, which typically requires those 1,500 hours. However, if you complete an approved course with a certified flight training provider—something many big flight schools offer—you can obtain a restricted ATP. That can be achieved with about 1,250 hours, but it comes with limitations: you can only serve as second-in-command, and there are other restrictions until you reach the 1,500-hour mark and get the full ATP. A common way people build up to those hours is by becoming a flight instructor after earning their licenses. Once you’ve accumulated the hours, you then complete an ATP CTP course—that stands for Certification Training Program. It familiarizes you with the airline environment, especially crew resource management (CRM), which is a major part of airline flying. You also get simulator time—about four hours in a full-motion simulator. At the end of that, you take a checkride—which includes an oral exam and practical exam in the simulator. If you pass, the FAA approves your paperwork, and you officially have your ATP Certificate with a type rating for the aircraft you trained on. Question What is the average investment made in the process of becoming a pilot? Community Answer The average investment of money to obtain the average amount of flight training (dual, with an instructor & solo) for a private pilot license/certificate is $10,000. The average investment of time required to study and pass the FAA private pilot written exam is about 500 hours. The average investment to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license/certificate is 10X that of a private pilots license: $100,000 to obtain all necessary instruction and interim ratings (private, instrument, commercial, multi, ATP etc.) including approximately 5000 hours of time to study all the instruction materials to pass the required add-on knowledge exams, likely over the course of several years. Question I want to know which subjects a pilot needs to know the most? Community Answer You'll need to have a knowledge of air navigation, interpretation of meteorological reports, operations of sophisticated electronic and mechanical controls, leading the aircraft under adverse circumstances, and being a leader to the flight crew and passengers under climatic and other emergency situations. Thus, useful subjects would include mathematics, sciences, management, communications (especially English, the language used by pilots internationally) and stress management. See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Flying as a career is a stressful job. A pilot's ultimate responsibility—the safety of their passengers and cargo—means making a lot of personal sacrifices. You’ll be expected to undergo constant training and evaluation, drug and alcohol testing, background checks, and long hours. Thanks Advertisement References About This Article Article Summary X If you want to become an airline pilot, focus on taking math and science classes if you're still in school, since they'll be most the most helpful for your future career. You should also plan on getting your undergraduate degree if you don't already have one, which is required by most major airlines. Once you graduate, you can enroll in an accredited flight school and start gaining experience. For a cheaper option, you can join the military and train to be a pilot that way. Either way, you'll eventually need to take a written and practical exam to earn your pilot's license so you can start flying on your own! For tips on how to find a job at an airline, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,258,154 times. Reader Success Stories Ruchi Nakum Jul 6, 2016 "I'm very thankful for this website and those who wrote many questions and gave the answers. I think it will ..." more Did this article help you?
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Learn why people trust wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) - [Categories](https://www.wikihow.com/Special:CategoryListing "Special:CategoryListing") - [Cars & Other Vehicles](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Cars-%26-Other-Vehicles "Category:Cars & Other Vehicles") - [Aviation](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Aviation "Category:Aviation") - [Aviation Careers](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Aviation-Careers "Category:Aviation Careers") # [How to Become an Airline Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) Explore this Article parts [1 Becoming a Private Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#Becoming-a-Private-Pilot) [2 Earning an Airline Transport Pilot's License](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#Earning-an-Airline-Transport-Pilot.27s-License) [3 Gaining Experience](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#Gaining-Experience) [4 Working at an Airline](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#Working-at-an-Airline) [Airline Pilot Resume](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#sample_Airline-Pilot-Resume) [\+ Show 2 more...](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [\- Show less...](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) Other Sections [Expert Q\&A](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#qa_headline) [Tips and Warnings](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#warnings) [Related Articles](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#relatedwikihows) [References](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#References) [Article Summary](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#summary_wrapper) Co-authored by [Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner) [Last Updated: September 6, 2025](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Approved](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) X This article was co-authored by [Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner). Gary Baumgardner is an airline pilot based in San Diego, CA. With over 18 years of experience, Gary is passionate about helping people overcome their fear of flying through a variety of methods. Gary offers an online course, Skybound: Courage to Fly Academy, which includes 1:1 sessions with experts like pilots, mechanics, and psychologists, and a Facebook support group. By sharing aviation expertise, insights from psychologists, and more, he hopes to provide a holistic approach to help individuals overcome their fear. Gary also shares behind-the-scenes and pilot insights on social media to his over 454k followers. He also hosts a free pilot mentoring program for aspiring pilots. There are [10 references](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#References) cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 28 testimonials and 84% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 2,258,154 times. Do you dream of soaring through the skies at high altitudes and getting paid for it? If so, being an airline pilot might be the perfect job for you! There are actually a few different paths you can take to become a pilot, and we've outlined each one below to help you get started. Keep reading to learn how you can make your piloting dreams a reality and "land" your first piloting job. ## Steps Part 1 Part 1 of 4: ### Becoming a Private Pilot [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) 1. [![Step 1 Graduate from high school with courses in math and science.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/c7/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg) 1 Graduate from high school with courses in math and science. Although there are no high school course requirements for becoming an airline pilot, generally courses in math and science will be most helpful for your future career. Enroll in advanced placement classes if they are offered by your school.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-1)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Javier Diaz](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/47/Javier_Diaz.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Javier_Diaz.png)Javier Diaz Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Javier-Diaz) Expert Interview - Consider taking part in extracurricular activities related to flying. In the UK, for instance, you could join the Air Training Corps (ATC), a volunteer-military youth organization for people under the age of 18. 2. [![Step 2 Earn a 4-year college degree to fly for a large commercial airline.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/c5/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg) 2 Earn a 4-year college degree to fly for a large commercial airline. A bachelor's degree or equivalent is required to become a pilot for a major airline. It's preferable to get a bachelor of science with an emphasis in aviation, but your degree doesn't necessarily have to be aviation related.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-2) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - Some regional airlines only require a 2-year degree. - Certain colleges and universities, such as the University of North Dakota, offer flight training in concurrence with academic classes.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-3) X Research source Advertisement 3. [![Step 3 Obtain a first-class medical certificate.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/ba/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg) 3 Obtain a first-class medical certificate. Make an appointment with a certified aviation medical examiner. A doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination to ensure that you’re both physically and mentally capable of operating an airplane. - Contrary to popular belief, you can still become a professional pilot if you wear glasses or contacts, as long as your vision is correctable to 20/20.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-4) X Research source - In the United States, you must visit the office of a certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). A list of AMEs in your community can be found here: <https://www.faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification> 4. [![Step 4 Enroll in an accredited flight school or training program to gain flight experience.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/48/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg) 4 Enroll in an accredited flight school or training program to gain flight experience.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-5)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Javier Diaz](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/47/Javier_Diaz.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Javier_Diaz.png)Javier Diaz Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Javier-Diaz) Expert Interview Training generally comes in two forms: integrated and modular. Integrated training programs are more expensive, but allow you to complete your training more quickly—generally 14-18 months. Modular programs allow you to pay as you go and are better if you want to train part-time, potentially taking breaks between modules.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-6) X Research source - If you’re in the United States, completing classes at an FAA-approved flight school can reduce the amount of flight experience required for a pilot’s license.[\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-7)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/ce/Gary_Baumgardner_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview 5. [![Step 5 Consider military flight training for a subsidized option.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/76/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg) 5 Consider military flight training for a subsidized option. Enrolling in flight school and acquiring the required number of flight hours can be an incredibly expensive process. If you enlist in the military, however, your flight training will be subsidized. The flip side, of course, is that you must agree to a multi-year commitment to the armed forces (10 years, in the United States).[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-8) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - The Air Force, [Navy](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Navy-Pilot "Become a Navy Pilot"), Army, and Coast Guard offer flight training if you are a U.S. citizen. - Job prospects are generally good for those leaving the military to become an airline pilot. 6. [![Step 6 Get a student pilot’s license to fly a plane on your own.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/74/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg) 6 Get a student pilot’s license to fly a plane on your own.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-9)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Javier Diaz](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/47/Javier_Diaz.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Javier_Diaz.png)Javier Diaz Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Javier-Diaz) Expert Interview Apply for a student pilot’s license through the official aviation board in your country. These licenses are free to apply for, but you may need your instructor sign-off to prove your skills. - You can start taking flying lessons before you’ve applied for a student pilot certificate, but you’ll need one to operate a plane by yourself. A private pilot’s license, your next step, requires a certain amount of solo flying hours. - You can often apply for a student pilot certificate at the same time as your medical certificate. 7. [![Step 7 Take a written exam to start earning your private pilot’s license.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a3/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg) 7 Take a written exam to start earning your private pilot’s license. The written exam can be taken at any time before the practical exam—some instructors and flight schools require it to be completed successfully before you start flying.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-10)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/ce/Gary_Baumgardner_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-11) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) Federal Aviation Administration U.S. government agency responsible for monitoring and setting guidelines for civilian aviation [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that you complete a solo cross-country flight before taking the written exam. 8. [![Step 8 Pass a practical flight exam and obtain your private pilot’s license.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a1/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg) 8 Pass a practical flight exam and obtain your private pilot’s license. To take your practical exam, you must have completed 40 total hours of flight time. Those 40 hours must include a minimum of 10 hours flying solo, of which 5 must be a solo cross-country flight, and 20 hours with an instructor. The flight exam is administered by an FAA examiner and usually lasts 1-2 hours. You must provide your own plane for the exam. - Once you’ve completed this process, you’re officially a licensed pilot. You will be comfortable with the fundamentals of flying a single-engine plane. - You cannot receive payment for your services when you hold this license. Part 2 Part 2 of 4: ### Earning an Airline Transport Pilot's License [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) 1. [![Step 1 Add an instrument rating to fly in inclement weather.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/e/e7/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg) 1 Add an instrument rating to fly in inclement weather. An instrument rating requires 50 hours of cross-country flight time while serving as the pilot in command. You also need 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument flight experience to qualify.[\[12\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-12)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/ce/Gary_Baumgardner_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview To prove your flight hours, your instructor will review your pilot logbook and set up an appointment with a dedicated pilot examiner. Then, you’ll be asked to plan a cross-country flight using instrument flight rules (which you may or may not actually fly), as well as an oral exam and flight test.[\[13\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-13) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - This rating allows you to pilot a plane during periods of low visibility, guided solely by the airplane’s instruments. 2. [![Step 2 Earn a commercial pilot’s license to be paid to fly.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/33/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg) 2 Earn a commercial pilot’s license to be paid to fly. To qualify for an FAA Commercial Pilot License, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience. Like your private pilot license, you’ll need to pass a written and flight exam. The commercial certificate requires 250 flight hours (including 100 hours as pilot in command, 50 hours cross-country, and 10 hours of dual instruction in a complex aircraft). - The written exam for a commercial license contains 100 multiple choice questions. You will be given 3 hours to complete the test, and the minimum score is 70%. - The practical exam must be administered by an FAA-approved examiner, a list of which can be searched here: <https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/designees_delegations/find_designees>. 3. [![Step 3 Add a multi-engine rating to legally fly a twin engine aircraft.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3a/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg) 3 Add a multi-engine rating to legally fly a twin engine aircraft. To work as an airline pilot, you must acquire a multi-engine rating to fly planes with two engines.[\[14\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-14)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/ce/Gary_Baumgardner_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview You’ll need an endorsement from your instructor and will also have to take a practical test that includes a detailed verbal test. [\[15\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-15) X Research source - The oral exam can be administered by the instructor and includes questions about weight and balance, aircraft systems, and minimum controllable airspeed.[\[16\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-16) X Research source - No written test is required. 4. [![Step 4 Earn your airline transport pilot’s license.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/72/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg) 4 Earn your airline transport pilot’s license. To apply for this license, you must 23 years or older and have at least 1,500 hours of flying experience (that includes both night and instrument flying). You’ll also be required to pass written and flight examinations. - The written exam is multiple choice and addresses subjects like flight planning and monitoring, radio navigation, meteorology, and air law. - The practical exam is administered by either an FAA Inspector or an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. It’s divided into two sections: an oral exam and a test flight. - This license allows you to operate as the captain (or the “pilot in command”) of a commercial aircraft. Part 3 Part 3 of 4: ### Gaining Experience [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) 1. [![Step 1 Apply for jobs with regional airlines.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/07/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg) 1 Apply for jobs with regional airlines. To work for a major airline, you will typically need 3,000 hours total flight time including at least 1,500 hours multi-engine, and at least 1,000 hours as pilot in command of a turbine-powered aircraft. To gain that experience, you can start by working at a regional airline, which often requires only 1,500 hours of flight time.[\[17\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-17) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - Many pilots start out at smaller airlines where they can gain experience flying on scheduled flights in a variety of weather conditions. Then, they use that experience to get higher paying jobs at bigger airlines. 2. [![Step 2 Complete your certified flight instructor rating to work at a flight school.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8e/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg) 2 Complete your certified flight instructor rating to work at a flight school. Some flight schools offer you flight hours in exchange for working as an instructor there. This is a very common route to earning the hours needed to fly for a major airline since it allows you to earn money and while building up your flight hours.[\[18\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-18) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - Similarly, find a job as an instructor at a simulator company. Even if they cannot pay you a salary, see if you can trade your instructor hours for hours using the simulator and gaining experience to use in future job interviews.[\[19\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-19) X Research source 3. [![Step 3 Volunteer as a pilot to gain experience while helping others.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/5b/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg) 3 Volunteer as a pilot to gain experience while helping others. Safety pilots, for instance, keep an eye out while another pilot is wearing a view-limiting device that simulates low-visibility weather conditions. You can donate your time while also earning flight hours. Or, if you are in the U.S., you can work with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP)—the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. It conducts search-and-rescue missions and educational flights for younger cadets using a feel of smaller aircraft. - Some CAP flights require a private pilot’s license at minimum, while others have more stringent requirements. 4. [![Step 4 Find “low-time” pilot jobs in your community for additional hours.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/03/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg) 4 Find “low-time” pilot jobs in your community for additional hours. Options include scenic flights, glider towing, aerial photography, towing banners, and pipeline patrol. These jobs may be hard to find when the market is bad for pilots, since other, more experienced pilots may be looking for work. - These jobs can usually be found via word-of-mouth or contacting businesses in your area that you think might be hiring part-time pilots. Part 4 Part 4 of 4: ### Working at an Airline [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) 1. [![Step 1 Apply to airlines as soon as you meet the minimum requirements.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg) 1 Apply to airlines as soon as you meet the minimum requirements. Prepare a one-page professional pilot [resume](https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Resume "Make a Resume"). The resume should be broken down into sections with your contact information, ratings and flight hours, experience and chronological job history and any awards or accomplishments. - Ask other pilots who have direct knowledge of your flying skills to write letters of recommendation. 2. [![Step 2 Prepare for the interview by researching the airline.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f6/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg) 2 Prepare for the interview by researching the airline. Figure out what types of planes they operate, as well as their hub cities. Look them up online to see if there’s been any recent news about the company. Also, make sure your logbook is complete and you have an accurate record of your flight time. - Check professional pilot websites where pilots share airline specific interview experiences. - You may want to bring copies of records such as college transcripts, military records, and licenses to the interview. - If the airline conducts a simulator check, rent a simulator at your local airport or flight school to brush up. Some companies offer airline-specific interview simulator preparation, although this specialty interview prep can be pricey. 3. [![Step 3 Complete your initial training once hired.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/98/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg) 3 Complete your initial training once hired. Onboarding for airline pilots typically includes a week of company training, 3-6 weeks of ground school and simulator training, and 25 hours of initial operating experience (including a check ride with an FAA aviation safety inspector).[\[20\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-20)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/ce/Gary_Baumgardner_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png)Gary Baumgardner Pilot](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner) Expert Interview - Once trained, you'll be required to complete regular training and simulator checks. These usually occur once or twice a year. 4. [![Step 4 Start working at the airline as a flight engineer.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/47/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg) 4 Start working at the airline as a flight engineer. Depending on the type of aircraft, new airline pilots start as first officers or flight engineers. Although some airlines favor applicants who already have a flight engineer’s license, they may provide flight engineer training for those who have only the commercial license. 5. [![Step 5 Advance to first officer after 1-5 years.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/9d/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg) 5 Advance to first officer after 1-5 years. In the airlines, advancement is usually predetermined by seniority provisions stated in union contracts. After a period of 1-5 years, you will likely be promoted to the role of first office.[\[21\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-21) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - A first officer (also known as the co-pilot) is the second-in-command to the captain. 6. [![Step 6 Become a captain after 5-15 years on the job.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/39/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg) 6 Become a captain after 5-15 years on the job. Gaining seniority will also help you acquire preferred flight assignments. Your time with the airline will determine when you fly, if you fly on weekends, or if you'll be in the air during Christmas or other holidays.[\[22\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-22) X [Trustworthy Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) US Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information [Go to source](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - Any time you change airlines, by choice or because you've been laid off or your airline has gone out of business, you will be starting at the bottom again at your new airline in terms of your position, schedule, and pay—regardless of experience. ### Airline Pilot Resume [![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/87/Airline-Pilot-Resume_sample.png/340px-Airline-Pilot-Resume_sample.png.webp)![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/87/Airline-Pilot-Resume_sample.png/340px-Airline-Pilot-Resume_sample.png) Sample Airline Pilot Resume](https://www.wikihow.com/Sample/Airline-Pilot-Resume) ## Expert Q\&A Search [Add New Question]() - Question How do you become an airline pilot? [![Lewis Dixon](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2a/Lewis_Dixon_.png/-crop-200-200-200px-Lewis_Dixon_.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Lewis-Dixon) [Lewis Dixon](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Lewis-Dixon) Pilot and Flight Instructor Lewis Dixon is a pilot, flight instructor, and aviation content creator. With over 10 years of experience, Lewis has set out to inspire pilots and students by showing how much fun the aviation world can be. He has been sharing flight training, flying tips, advice, and more online @LewDixAviation since 2015. In 2016, Lewis became a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and later also became a Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). Over time his content has evolved to include instructional flights, mockumentaries and so much more, always with an emphasis on fun. [![Lewis Dixon](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2a/Lewis_Dixon_.png/-crop-200-200-200px-Lewis_Dixon_.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Lewis-Dixon) [Lewis Dixon](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Lewis-Dixon) Pilot and Flight Instructor Expert Answer You have to have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time before you can be an airline pilot. Now, there are exceptions to that. The certificate you need is called an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Certificate, which typically requires those 1,500 hours. However, if you complete an approved course with a certified flight training provider—something many big flight schools offer—you can obtain a restricted ATP. That can be achieved with about 1,250 hours, but it comes with limitations: you can only serve as second-in-command, and there are other restrictions until you reach the 1,500-hour mark and get the full ATP. A common way people build up to those hours is by becoming a flight instructor after earning their licenses. Once you’ve accumulated the hours, you then complete an ATP CTP course—that stands for Certification Training Program. It familiarizes you with the airline environment, especially crew resource management (CRM), which is a major part of airline flying. You also get simulator time—about four hours in a full-motion simulator. At the end of that, you take a checkride—which includes an oral exam and practical exam in the simulator. If you pass, the FAA approves your paperwork, and you officially have your ATP Certificate with a type rating for the aircraft you trained on. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \$1 helps us in our mission. [Support wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Contribute) [Yes](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [No](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Not Helpful 0](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Helpful 0](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - Question What is the average investment made in the process of becoming a pilot? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar2.png) Community Answer The average investment of money to obtain the average amount of flight training (dual, with an instructor & solo) for a private pilot license/certificate is \$10,000. The average investment of time required to study and pass the FAA private pilot written exam is about 500 hours. The average investment to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license/certificate is 10X that of a private pilots license: \$100,000 to obtain all necessary instruction and interim ratings (private, instrument, commercial, multi, ATP etc.) including approximately 5000 hours of time to study all the instruction materials to pass the required add-on knowledge exams, likely over the course of several years. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \$1 helps us in our mission. [Support wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Contribute) [Yes](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [No](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Not Helpful 3](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Helpful 42](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - Question I want to know which subjects a pilot needs to know the most? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Community Answer You'll need to have a knowledge of air navigation, interpretation of meteorological reports, operations of sophisticated electronic and mechanical controls, leading the aircraft under adverse circumstances, and being a leader to the flight crew and passengers under climatic and other emergency situations. Thus, useful subjects would include mathematics, sciences, management, communications (especially English, the language used by pilots internationally) and stress management. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \$1 helps us in our mission. [Support wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Contribute) [Yes](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [No](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Not Helpful 25](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [Helpful 177](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [See more answers](https://www.wikihow.com/Questions/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#offset=3) Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. [Submit]() Advertisement ## Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial [Submit](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) Thanks for submitting a tip for review\! ## Warnings - Flying as a career is a stressful job. A pilot's ultimate responsibility—the safety of their passengers and cargo—means making a lot of personal sacrifices. You’ll be expected to undergo constant training and evaluation, drug and alcohol testing, background checks, and long hours. 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![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/5f/Become-an-Air-Force-Officer-Step-32.jpg/-crop-342-184-245px-Become-an-Air-Force-Officer-Step-32.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Air-Force-Officer) Advertisement ## References 1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-1) Javier Diaz. Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot. Expert Interview 2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-2) <https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4> 3. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-3) <http://aviation.und.edu/> 4. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-4) <https://www.pilotcareernews.com/how-to-be-a-pilot/> 5. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-5) Javier Diaz. Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot. Expert Interview 6. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-6) <https://www.pilotcareernews.com/pilot-training-integrated-vs-modular/> 7. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-7) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview 8. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-8) <https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4> 9. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-9) Javier Diaz. Entrepreneur & Stunt Helicopter Pilot. Expert Interview [More References (13)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#aiinfo) 1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-10) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview 2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-11) <https://www.faa.gov/pilots/become/knowledge/> 3. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-12) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview 4. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-13) <https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4> 5. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-14) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview 6. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-15) <https://www.pea.com/blog/posts/difference-pilot-certificates-ratings-endorsements/> 7. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-16) <http://www.stcharlesflyingservice.com/wp-content/uploads/metp.pdf> 8. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-17) <https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4> 9. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-18) <https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4> 10. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-19) <https://dutchpilotgirl.com/unemployed-pilot/> 11. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-20) Gary Baumgardner. Pilot. Expert Interview 12. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-21) <https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4> 13. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_ref-22) <https://www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/airline-and-commercial-pilots.htm#tab-4> ## About This Article ![Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/ce/Gary_Baumgardner_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png) Co-authored by: [Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner) Pilot This article was co-authored by [Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner). Gary Baumgardner is an airline pilot based in San Diego, CA. With over 18 years of experience, Gary is passionate about helping people overcome their fear of flying through a variety of methods. Gary offers an online course, Skybound: Courage to Fly Academy, which includes 1:1 sessions with experts like pilots, mechanics, and psychologists, and a Facebook support group. By sharing aviation expertise, insights from psychologists, and more, he hopes to provide a holistic approach to help individuals overcome their fear. Gary also shares behind-the-scenes and pilot insights on social media to his over 454k followers. He also hosts a free pilot mentoring program for aspiring pilots. This article has been viewed 2,258,154 times. 18 votes - 84% Co-authors: 169 Updated: September 6, 2025 Views: 2,258,154 Categories: [Featured Articles](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Featured-Articles "Category:Featured Articles") \\| [Aviation Careers](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Aviation-Careers "Category:Aviation Careers") [Article SummaryX](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#summary_wrapper) If you want to become an airline pilot, focus on taking math and science classes if you're still in school, since they'll be most the most helpful for your future career. You should also plan on getting your undergraduate degree if you don't already have one, which is required by most major airlines. Once you graduate, you can enroll in an accredited flight school and start gaining experience. For a cheaper option, you can join the military and train to be a pilot that way. Either way, you'll eventually need to take a written and practical exam to earn your pilot's license so you can start flying on your own! For tips on how to find a job at an airline, scroll down\! Did this summary help you? Yes No [In other languages](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#other_languages) [Spanish](https://es.wikihow.com/ser-un-piloto-de-aerol%C3%ADneas) - [Print](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) - [Send fan mail to authors](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,258,154 times. ## Reader Success Stories - ![Ruchi Nakum](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Ruchi Nakum Jul 6, 2016 "I'm very thankful for this website and those who wrote many questions and gave the answers. I think it will be very helpful to solve our doubt and get the solutions."..." 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By continuing to use our site, you agree to our [cookie policy](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Cookie-Policy). ![Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/ce/Gary_Baumgardner_.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Gary_Baumgardner_.png) Co-authored by: [Gary Baumgardner](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Gary-Baumgardner) Pilot Co-authors: 169 Updated: September 6, 2025 Views: 2,258,154 84% of readers found this article helpful. 18 votes - 84% Click a star to add your vote ![Ruchi Nakum](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0a/CommunityAvatar1.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar1.png) Ruchi Nakum Jul 6, 2016 "I'm very thankful for this website and those who wrote many questions and gave the answers. I think it will be very helpful to solve our doubt and get the solutions."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) ![Gabriella Martnez](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0a/CommunityAvatar1.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar1.png) Gabriella Martnez Apr 29, 2018 "Everything was really helpful to me, I've always wanted to pursue a career in aviation! I am ready to begin my career as soon as I graduate high school."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) ![Anonymous](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Anonymous Apr 10, 2017 "Reading this article has helped me realize the cost and sacrifice that is involved in becoming a pilot and how I can prepare my son for the future. "..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) ![Lawrence Crowson](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f2/CommunityAvatar3.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar3.png) Lawrence Crowson Jul 16, 2017 "Your ability to articulate in meticulous fashion the arduous journey to becoming an airline pilot is unsurpassed. Thank you for the information."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) ![Ahmed Alyafee](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Ahmed Alyafee Aug 24, 2020 "It helped me to know how many years you have to study to become an airline pilot and how much fees are needed for private pilot training."..." 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Readable Markdown	[![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) Do you dream of soaring through the skies at high altitudes and getting paid for it? If so, being an airline pilot might be the perfect job for you! There are actually a few different paths you can take to become a pilot, and we've outlined each one below to help you get started. Keep reading to learn how you can make your piloting dreams a reality and "land" your first piloting job. 1. [![Step 1 Graduate from high school with courses in math and science.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/c7/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-1-Version-2.jpg) Although there are no high school course requirements for becoming an airline pilot, generally courses in math and science will be most helpful for your future career. Enroll in advanced placement classes if they are offered by your school.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-1) - Consider taking part in extracurricular activities related to flying. In the UK, for instance, you could join the Air Training Corps (ATC), a volunteer-military youth organization for people under the age of 18. 2. [![Step 2 Earn a 4-year college degree to fly for a large commercial airline.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/c5/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-2-Version-2.jpg) A bachelor's degree or equivalent is required to become a pilot for a major airline. It's preferable to get a bachelor of science with an emphasis in aviation, but your degree doesn't necessarily have to be aviation related.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-2) - Some regional airlines only require a 2-year degree. - Certain colleges and universities, such as the University of North Dakota, offer flight training in concurrence with academic classes.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-3) Advertisement 3. [![Step 3 Obtain a first-class medical certificate.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/ba/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-3-Version-2.jpg) Make an appointment with a certified aviation medical examiner. A doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination to ensure that you’re both physically and mentally capable of operating an airplane. - Contrary to popular belief, you can still become a professional pilot if you wear glasses or contacts, as long as your vision is correctable to 20/20.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-4) - In the United States, you must visit the office of a certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). A list of AMEs in your community can be found here: <https://www.faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification> 4. [![Step 4 Enroll in an accredited flight school or training program to gain flight experience.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/48/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-4-Version-2.jpg) [\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-5) Training generally comes in two forms: integrated and modular. Integrated training programs are more expensive, but allow you to complete your training more quickly—generally 14-18 months. Modular programs allow you to pay as you go and are better if you want to train part-time, potentially taking breaks between modules.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-6) - If you’re in the United States, completing classes at an FAA-approved flight school can reduce the amount of flight experience required for a pilot’s license.[\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-7) 5. [![Step 5 Consider military flight training for a subsidized option.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/76/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-5-Version-2.jpg) Enrolling in flight school and acquiring the required number of flight hours can be an incredibly expensive process. If you enlist in the military, however, your flight training will be subsidized. The flip side, of course, is that you must agree to a multi-year commitment to the armed forces (10 years, in the United States).[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-8) - The Air Force, [Navy](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Navy-Pilot "Become a Navy Pilot"), Army, and Coast Guard offer flight training if you are a U.S. citizen. - Job prospects are generally good for those leaving the military to become an airline pilot. 6. [![Step 6 Get a student pilot’s license to fly a plane on your own.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/74/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-6-Version-2.jpg) [\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-9) Apply for a student pilot’s license through the official aviation board in your country. These licenses are free to apply for, but you may need your instructor sign-off to prove your skills. - You can start taking flying lessons before you’ve applied for a student pilot certificate, but you’ll need one to operate a plane by yourself. A private pilot’s license, your next step, requires a certain amount of solo flying hours. - You can often apply for a student pilot certificate at the same time as your medical certificate. 7. [![Step 7 Take a written exam to start earning your private pilot’s license.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a3/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-7-Version-2.jpg) The written exam can be taken at any time before the practical exam—some instructors and flight schools require it to be completed successfully before you start flying.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-10) The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-11) - However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that you complete a solo cross-country flight before taking the written exam. 8. [![Step 8 Pass a practical flight exam and obtain your private pilot’s license.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a1/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-8-Version-2.jpg) To take your practical exam, you must have completed 40 total hours of flight time. Those 40 hours must include a minimum of 10 hours flying solo, of which 5 must be a solo cross-country flight, and 20 hours with an instructor. The flight exam is administered by an FAA examiner and usually lasts 1-2 hours. You must provide your own plane for the exam. - Once you’ve completed this process, you’re officially a licensed pilot. You will be comfortable with the fundamentals of flying a single-engine plane. - You cannot receive payment for your services when you hold this license. 1. [![Step 1 Add an instrument rating to fly in inclement weather.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/e/e7/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-9-Version-2.jpg) An instrument rating requires 50 hours of cross-country flight time while serving as the pilot in command. You also need 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument flight experience to qualify.[\[12\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-12) To prove your flight hours, your instructor will review your pilot logbook and set up an appointment with a dedicated pilot examiner. Then, you’ll be asked to plan a cross-country flight using instrument flight rules (which you may or may not actually fly), as well as an oral exam and flight test.[\[13\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-13) - This rating allows you to pilot a plane during periods of low visibility, guided solely by the airplane’s instruments. 2. [![Step 2 Earn a commercial pilot’s license to be paid to fly.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/33/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-10-Version-3.jpg) To qualify for an FAA Commercial Pilot License, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience. Like your private pilot license, you’ll need to pass a written and flight exam. The commercial certificate requires 250 flight hours (including 100 hours as pilot in command, 50 hours cross-country, and 10 hours of dual instruction in a complex aircraft). - The written exam for a commercial license contains 100 multiple choice questions. You will be given 3 hours to complete the test, and the minimum score is 70%. - The practical exam must be administered by an FAA-approved examiner, a list of which can be searched here: <https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/designees_delegations/find_designees>. 3. [![Step 3 Add a multi-engine rating to legally fly a twin engine aircraft.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3a/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-11-Version-3.jpg) To work as an airline pilot, you must acquire a multi-engine rating to fly planes with two engines.[\[14\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-14) You’ll need an endorsement from your instructor and will also have to take a practical test that includes a detailed verbal test. [\[15\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-15) - The oral exam can be administered by the instructor and includes questions about weight and balance, aircraft systems, and minimum controllable airspeed.[\[16\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-16) - No written test is required. 4. [![Step 4 Earn your airline transport pilot’s license.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/72/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-12-Version-2.jpg) To apply for this license, you must 23 years or older and have at least 1,500 hours of flying experience (that includes both night and instrument flying). You’ll also be required to pass written and flight examinations. - The written exam is multiple choice and addresses subjects like flight planning and monitoring, radio navigation, meteorology, and air law. - The practical exam is administered by either an FAA Inspector or an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. It’s divided into two sections: an oral exam and a test flight. - This license allows you to operate as the captain (or the “pilot in command”) of a commercial aircraft. 1. [![Step 1 Apply for jobs with regional airlines.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/07/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-13-Version-2.jpg) To work for a major airline, you will typically need 3,000 hours total flight time including at least 1,500 hours multi-engine, and at least 1,000 hours as pilot in command of a turbine-powered aircraft. To gain that experience, you can start by working at a regional airline, which often requires only 1,500 hours of flight time.[\[17\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-17) - Many pilots start out at smaller airlines where they can gain experience flying on scheduled flights in a variety of weather conditions. Then, they use that experience to get higher paying jobs at bigger airlines. 2. [![Step 2 Complete your certified flight instructor rating to work at a flight school.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8e/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-14-Version-2.jpg) Some flight schools offer you flight hours in exchange for working as an instructor there. This is a very common route to earning the hours needed to fly for a major airline since it allows you to earn money and while building up your flight hours.[\[18\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-18) - Similarly, find a job as an instructor at a simulator company. Even if they cannot pay you a salary, see if you can trade your instructor hours for hours using the simulator and gaining experience to use in future job interviews.[\[19\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-19) 3. [![Step 3 Volunteer as a pilot to gain experience while helping others.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/5b/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-15-Version-2.jpg) Safety pilots, for instance, keep an eye out while another pilot is wearing a view-limiting device that simulates low-visibility weather conditions. You can donate your time while also earning flight hours. Or, if you are in the U.S., you can work with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP)—the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. It conducts search-and-rescue missions and educational flights for younger cadets using a feel of smaller aircraft. - Some CAP flights require a private pilot’s license at minimum, while others have more stringent requirements. 4. [![Step 4 Find “low-time” pilot jobs in your community for additional hours.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/03/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-16-Version-2.jpg) Options include scenic flights, glider towing, aerial photography, towing banners, and pipeline patrol. These jobs may be hard to find when the market is bad for pilots, since other, more experienced pilots may be looking for work. - These jobs can usually be found via word-of-mouth or contacting businesses in your area that you think might be hiring part-time pilots. 1. [![Step 1 Apply to airlines as soon as you meet the minimum requirements.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-17-Version-2.jpg) Prepare a one-page professional pilot [resume](https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Resume "Make a Resume"). The resume should be broken down into sections with your contact information, ratings and flight hours, experience and chronological job history and any awards or accomplishments. - Ask other pilots who have direct knowledge of your flying skills to write letters of recommendation. 2. [![Step 2 Prepare for the interview by researching the airline.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f6/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-18-Version-2.jpg) Figure out what types of planes they operate, as well as their hub cities. Look them up online to see if there’s been any recent news about the company. Also, make sure your logbook is complete and you have an accurate record of your flight time. - Check professional pilot websites where pilots share airline specific interview experiences. - You may want to bring copies of records such as college transcripts, military records, and licenses to the interview. - If the airline conducts a simulator check, rent a simulator at your local airport or flight school to brush up. Some companies offer airline-specific interview simulator preparation, although this specialty interview prep can be pricey. 3. [![Step 3 Complete your initial training once hired.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/98/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-19-Version-2.jpg) Onboarding for airline pilots typically includes a week of company training, 3-6 weeks of ground school and simulator training, and 25 hours of initial operating experience (including a check ride with an FAA aviation safety inspector).[\[20\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-20) - Once trained, you'll be required to complete regular training and simulator checks. These usually occur once or twice a year. 4. [![Step 4 Start working at the airline as a flight engineer.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/47/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-20-Version-2.jpg) Depending on the type of aircraft, new airline pilots start as first officers or flight engineers. Although some airlines favor applicants who already have a flight engineer’s license, they may provide flight engineer training for those who have only the commercial license. 5. [![Step 5 Advance to first officer after 1-5 years.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/9d/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-21-Version-2.jpg) In the airlines, advancement is usually predetermined by seniority provisions stated in union contracts. After a period of 1-5 years, you will likely be promoted to the role of first office.[\[21\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-21) - A first officer (also known as the co-pilot) is the second-in-command to the captain. 6. [![Step 6 Become a captain after 5-15 years on the job.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/39/Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#/Image:Become-an-Airline-Pilot-Step-22-Version-2.jpg) Gaining seniority will also help you acquire preferred flight assignments. Your time with the airline will determine when you fly, if you fly on weekends, or if you'll be in the air during Christmas or other holidays.[\[22\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#_note-22) - Any time you change airlines, by choice or because you've been laid off or your airline has gone out of business, you will be starting at the bottom again at your new airline in terms of your position, schedule, and pay—regardless of experience. Airline Pilot Resume Search [Add New Question]() - Question How do you become an airline pilot? [![Lewis Dixon](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2a/Lewis_Dixon_.png/-crop-200-200-200px-Lewis_Dixon_.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Lewis-Dixon) Lewis Dixon is a pilot, flight instructor, and aviation content creator. With over 10 years of experience, Lewis has set out to inspire pilots and students by showing how much fun the aviation world can be. He has been sharing flight training, flying tips, advice, and more online @LewDixAviation since 2015. In 2016, Lewis became a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and later also became a Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII) and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). Over time his content has evolved to include instructional flights, mockumentaries and so much more, always with an emphasis on fun. [![Lewis Dixon](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2a/Lewis_Dixon_.png/-crop-200-200-200px-Lewis_Dixon_.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Lewis-Dixon) Pilot and Flight Instructor Expert Answer You have to have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time before you can be an airline pilot. Now, there are exceptions to that. The certificate you need is called an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Certificate, which typically requires those 1,500 hours. However, if you complete an approved course with a certified flight training provider—something many big flight schools offer—you can obtain a restricted ATP. That can be achieved with about 1,250 hours, but it comes with limitations: you can only serve as second-in-command, and there are other restrictions until you reach the 1,500-hour mark and get the full ATP. A common way people build up to those hours is by becoming a flight instructor after earning their licenses. Once you’ve accumulated the hours, you then complete an ATP CTP course—that stands for Certification Training Program. It familiarizes you with the airline environment, especially crew resource management (CRM), which is a major part of airline flying. You also get simulator time—about four hours in a full-motion simulator. At the end of that, you take a checkride—which includes an oral exam and practical exam in the simulator. If you pass, the FAA approves your paperwork, and you officially have your ATP Certificate with a type rating for the aircraft you trained on. - Question What is the average investment made in the process of becoming a pilot? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar2.png) Community Answer The average investment of money to obtain the average amount of flight training (dual, with an instructor & solo) for a private pilot license/certificate is \$10,000. The average investment of time required to study and pass the FAA private pilot written exam is about 500 hours. The average investment to obtain an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license/certificate is 10X that of a private pilots license: \$100,000 to obtain all necessary instruction and interim ratings (private, instrument, commercial, multi, ATP etc.) including approximately 5000 hours of time to study all the instruction materials to pass the required add-on knowledge exams, likely over the course of several years. - Question I want to know which subjects a pilot needs to know the most? ![Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Community Answer You'll need to have a knowledge of air navigation, interpretation of meteorological reports, operations of sophisticated electronic and mechanical controls, leading the aircraft under adverse circumstances, and being a leader to the flight crew and passengers under climatic and other emergency situations. Thus, useful subjects would include mathematics, sciences, management, communications (especially English, the language used by pilots internationally) and stress management. [See more answers](https://www.wikihow.com/Questions/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#offset=3) Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. [Submit]() Advertisement Thanks for submitting a tip for review\! - Flying as a career is a stressful job. A pilot's ultimate responsibility—the safety of their passengers and cargo—means making a lot of personal sacrifices. You’ll be expected to undergo constant training and evaluation, drug and alcohol testing, background checks, and long hours. Thanks Advertisement ## References About This Article [Article SummaryX](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot#summary_wrapper) If you want to become an airline pilot, focus on taking math and science classes if you're still in school, since they'll be most the most helpful for your future career. You should also plan on getting your undergraduate degree if you don't already have one, which is required by most major airlines. Once you graduate, you can enroll in an accredited flight school and start gaining experience. For a cheaper option, you can join the military and train to be a pilot that way. Either way, you'll eventually need to take a written and practical exam to earn your pilot's license so you can start flying on your own! For tips on how to find a job at an airline, scroll down\! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,258,154 times. Reader Success Stories - ![Ruchi Nakum](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Ruchi Nakum Jul 6, 2016 "I'm very thankful for this website and those who wrote many questions and gave the answers. I think it will..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot) ## Did this article help you?
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