How Long Does it Take to Become a Pilot?
It takes two months to become a pilot and earn your private pilot license. To become an airline pilot, it takes two years to gain the required 1,500 hours flight time.
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Pilot Training
In ATP's fast track, Airline Career Pilot Program, gain the flight training you need for your private pilot license and become a pilot in as little as two months. In the next five months, you will earn your commercial pilot certificate and flight instructor certificate — making you ready to start a career flying as a commercial pilot.
| Starting from Zero Time | Starting with Credit for Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Private Pilot | 2 Months | |
| Commercial Pilot & Instrument Rating | 3 Months | 3 Months |
| Certified Flight Instructor & Multi-Engine Rating | 2 Months | 2 Months |
| Total Duration | 7 Months | 5 Months |
How much does flight school cost?
ATP quotes prices based on realistic flight time requirements, providing up-front, fixed-cost pricing for becoming a pilot.Flight Time Requirements
The FAA requires 1,500 hours to fly as an airline pilot, which can be earned in two years.
| Total Hours Required | |
|---|---|
| Private Pilot License | 40 Hours |
| Commercial Pilot Certificate | 250 Hours |
| Airline Transport Pilot Certificate | 1,500 Hours |
You Can Become a Pilot — Here's Your Next Step
Get started today and gain access to the following FREE resources:
- Download Your Free Airline Pilot Career Guide
- Admissions Flight Online Lesson
- Discover Full Financing Options
- Online Training Module Library
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Learn Hiring Outlook, Pay, Eligibility + Easy Step-by-Step Guide on Becoming a Pilot
Get the Complete Guide on How to Become a Pilot (PDF)
- Career Outlook – current & future airline hiring
- Pay – earning $100,000 to $400,000+ per year
- Requirements – qualifications & eligibility
- Step-by-Step Guide – how to become a pilot