Becoming a commercial pilot is one of the best ways to practice a fulfilling career.
Commercial pilots have a flexible working schedule, earn lots of money, receive several travel discounts for their family and friends, and is arguably the easiest way to travel around the world.
However, most people are put off by how long it takes to become a commercial pilot because becoming one requires some years of training and experience.
Thus, this article will provide you with the total duration required to complete a commercial pilot training program and will also discuss the functions of commercial pilots, 5 top aviation schools, and how to build a successful career as a pilot.
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot?
Who is a Commercial Pilot?
A commercial pilot is a trained aviation professional that operates an aircraft for hire or compensation.
Commercial pilots fly aircrafts carrying either passengers or cargo.
Also, they execute routine flight operations like search and rescue, aerial appraisal and also perform the following functions;
- Engine checks before any flight
- Check if cargo has been loaded correctly before taking off
- Analyze the weather and conclude whether it is safe enough for travels or not
- Communicate directly with watchtower for directions
- Observe aircraft systems during flight
- Conduct safe flight operations
Requirements for becoming a Commercial Pilot
To obtain a Commercial Pilot License, a pilot must satisfy the following requirements;
- Attain a minimum age of 18
- Display fluency in speaking the English Language
- Hold a Private Pilot License
- Pass the commercial pilot knowledge test
- Log a total flight time of over 250 hours
- Pass a check-ride supervised by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examiner
- Possess either a first-class or second-class medical certificate
- Have a good instrument rating
- Possess an excellent multi-engine rating
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot?
To become a commercial pilot, you must, first of all, obtain a Private Pilot License which is received at the end of a 2-month training program undertaken after the completion of a professional aviation school.
Obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight takes a minimum of 3 to 4 years in most aviation schools.
Also, an aspirant must possess the requirements listed above which can be obtained in a minimum of 5 months.
Top 5 Aviation Schools in the World:
To become a pilot, you must receive professional training from an accredited aviation school. Hence, below are some aviation schools that provide top-notch pilot education;
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University:
The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida is one of the best aviation schools in the United States.
Established in 1926, this school offers a comprehensive learning curriculum that is centered on the current technological demands of the industry.
The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is one of the few universities that contribute to national and international aviation policy.
The university also empowers students with first-class learning experiences by exposing them to top-notch practical education, state-of-the-art aviation labs, well-furnished repair and maintenance facilities, and excellent simulation centers.
Purdue School of Aviation and Technology, Indiana:
The Purdue School of Aviation and Technology, Indiana is one of the leading Aviation and Transportation schools in the world.
This school is popular for producing commercial pilots that address major challenges in the aviation sector.
The Purdue School of Aviation and Technology exposes students to several in-class projects and field research processes that boost their knowledge of aviation.
Majors in Aviation Management, Professional Flight, Aeronautical Engineering Technology, and many other aviation-related degree programs are available in this school.
Ohio State Center for Aviation Studies:
The Centre of Aviation Studies in Ohio is another outstanding aviation university to make it to this amiable list.
Apart from exposing students to first-class knowledge of professional aviation operations, this school has a system in place that offers students a pathway for them to build meaningful professional relationships, complete research studies for renowned aviation firms, and partake in valuable internship programs.
University of North Dakota Department of Aviation, North Dakota:
The University Of North Dakota Department Of Aviation, North Dakota is one of the most respected aerospace universities in the world.
This school offers a core curriculum that nurtures students on professional aviation education in various areas of fields.
The University Of North Dakota Department Of Aviation boasts top-notch facilities, the largest collegiate training fleet in the world, and more than 100 aircraft and simulators.
Moreso, the University Of North Dakota Department Of Aviation, North Dakota aims to develop the technical abilities of students, strive for human excellence, and infuse the aviation potentials of students.
Utah State University:
Utah State University, Utah offers one of the best aviation programs in the United States. This school offers a rigorous learning curriculum that is based on innovation and technology.
The Utah State University also offers a rich practical-based curriculum that develops the research abilities of students.
It is one of the top schools for aviation studies in the world at the moment.
Conclusion
Becoming a commercial pilot takes a minimum of approximately 4 years.
While a minimum of three (3) years is required to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight degree from an accredited aviation school, aspiring commercial pilots must receive a Private Pilot License after two months of training.
However, the aspirant must complete more than 250 hours of flight and satisfy other requirements which is achievable in a minimum of 5 months.
Nevertheless, to become a successful commercial pilot, self-confidence, teamwork, and continuous professional development are very vital tools for achieving this.
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