Pilot a Piper Archer with three months of Flight Training

How Long Does it Take to Become a Pilot?

It takes three 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.

Download Your FREE Airline Pilot Career Guide »

Start Mapping Your Career & Discover Your Options

Apply for Financing! »

Piper Archer flying above clouds

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 three months. In the next six 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 3 Months
Commercial Pilot & Instrument Rating 4 Months 4 Months
Certified Flight Instructor & Multi-Engine Rating 2 Months 2 Months
Total Duration 9 Months 6 Months

Many factors such as local weather, winter conditions, examiner availability, as well as your dedication, availability, and ability to absorb information quickly can affect your training timeline and can lengthen the duration of your program. While ATP does not guarantee program completion time, our nationwide network of resources, training centers, aircraft and examiners works to lessen the impact of delays.

Download Your FREE Airline Pilot Career Guide »

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.

How much does it cost to become a commercial 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

FREE Airline Pilot Career Guide »

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

Request More Information »