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Becoming an airline pilot follows a defined FAA path: certificates and ratings, then flight experience toward the 1,500-hour airline hiring minimum. Explore ATP's Airline Pilot Career Guide for how to become a pilot, the airline pilot career path, pilot licenses, salary information, and flight training details. When you are ready to train, start with airline pilot training or explore ATP CTP & Type Ratings and Time Build.
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To become a pilot in the U.S., meet FAA eligibility, complete flight and ground training, and pass knowledge and practical tests—usually starting with a private pilot certificate. See the step-by-step FAA process, timeline, and cost. Read more…
To become an airline pilot: Private, Instrument, Commercial, Multi-Engine, and typically CFI, then build to 1,500 hours for ATP. Age 21 and a First Class medical are usual hiring minimums. Read more…
To fly as a commercial airline pilot, you will need 1500 hours of experience, which can be earned in 2½ years . Read more…
Here is an outline of how much flight training costs through ATP's Airline Career Pilot Program. Read more…
Commercial airline pilot job career information; airline pilot hiring, pilot salary, retirement numbers, military pilot population reduction and the overall upcoming pilot shortage discussion. Read more…
The shortage of pilots qualified to fly for the airlines is causing regional airlines to offer signing bonuses, tuition reimbursement, and other incentives. Read more…
Flying is a rewarding career, both financially and in terms of job satisfaction. Pilots undertake intensive training to develop a highly unique skill set. As a result, commercial pilots are paid well. Read more…
When You Apply for a Loan and You're Qualified by Admissions
Uncover everything you need to know about the privileges, requirements, and eligibility criteria associated with different pilot licenses and certifications.
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Get your complete guide on how to become a pilot — Requirements, Pay, Steps and More.
Explore pilot licenses, certifications, eligibility, requirements, pilot salary information and current airline hiring outlook.
Airline Career Articles »Explore how much pilot training costs, learn what it's like to be a flight training student, and how to evaluate training schools.
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