HOW TO BECOME A PILOT IN UNITED STATES

HOW TO BECOME A PILOT IN UNITED STATES – involves a series of steps that include educational requirements, flight training, medical certification, and exams. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to becoming a pilot in the U.S., including the subjects to study in high school and the best places to continue your training:

1. Educational Requirements

High School Subjects:

To lay the foundation for your aviation career, focus on the following subjects during your high school education:

  • Mathematics: Particularly algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, which are essential for navigation, flight planning, and understanding aircraft performance.
  • Physics: Helps you understand aerodynamics, forces of flight, and the basic principles behind how airplanes work.
  • English: Essential for communication with air traffic control and reading flight manuals.
  • Geography: Useful for understanding navigation and reading maps and charts.
  • Computer Science: Familiarity with technology is beneficial since modern aviation relies on electronic systems and flight simulators.

Additional Requirements:

  • You must be at least 17 years old to start flight training for a Private Pilot License (PPL) in the U.S.
  • A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to enroll in a flight training program.

2. Obtain a Medical Certificate

  • Class 3 Medical Certificate: Required for obtaining a PPL (Private Pilot License). This certificate involves a physical examination to ensure you meet health standards.
  • Class 2 or Class 1 Medical Certificate: Required for those aiming to become commercial pilots (CPL) or airline transport pilots (ATPL). A Class 1 certificate is necessary for airline pilots.

The medical examination is conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved aviation medical examiner (AME). You must pass vision, hearing, and overall physical fitness tests.

3. Choose a Flight School

In the U.S., there are several options for flight schools. The best schools will offer FAA-approved flight training programs. There are two main types of schools:

  • Part 61 Flight Schools: Provide more flexible training schedules. Students often progress at their own pace, making it ideal for those with irregular availability.
  • Part 141 Flight Schools: These are FAA-approved schools that follow a more structured syllabus and are typically recommended for students who want to pursue a career in aviation.

Top Flight Schools in the U.S.

Here are some of the best places to continue your pilot training:

  1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU)
    • Locations: Daytona Beach, Florida; Prescott, Arizona
    • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in aviation, flight training programs, and pilot certifications.
    • Reputation: One of the most prestigious aviation universities worldwide, offering both academic and hands-on flight training.
  2. University of North Dakota (UND)
    • Location: Grand Forks, North Dakota
    • Programs Offered: Comprehensive flight training programs, including commercial pilot, flight instructor, and airline transport pilot certification.
    • Reputation: Known for its world-class aviation programs and state-of-the-art simulators and aircraft.
  3. ATP Flight School
    • Locations: Nationwide
    • Programs Offered: Fast-track training for PPL, CPL, and multi-engine ratings.
    • Reputation: Known for offering accelerated flight training with a large fleet of aircraft and experienced instructors.
  4. Flying Academy
    • Locations: Multiple U.S. locations (including Miami, Florida, and Denver, Colorado)
    • Programs Offered: From PPL to CPL, including multi-engine and instrument ratings.
    • Reputation: Known for quality flight training with international students often enrolling.
  5. California State University, Los Angeles – Aviation Department
    • Location: Los Angeles, California
    • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degree in Aviation with flight training programs.
    • Reputation: Offers a university degree along with flight training, making it a great choice for those who want an academic foundation in addition to flying skills.

4. Start Flight Training and Accumulate Hours

  • Private Pilot License (PPL): The first step to becoming a pilot. Requires a minimum of 40 flight hours, including solo flying, cross-country flying, and night flying.
  • Commercial Pilot License (CPL): Once you have your PPL, you can work towards your CPL, which requires a minimum of 250 flight hours, including specific training for multi-engine and instrument flying.
  • Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL): For airline pilots, requiring a minimum of 1,500 flight hours.

5. Pass Theoretical and Practical Examinations

  • Written Exams: Each level of certification (PPL, CPL, ATPL) has a theoretical written exam. The FAA provides the written test for each certification level, covering subjects such as:
    • Airspace rules and regulations
    • Navigation and flight planning
    • Meteorology and weather patterns
    • Aerodynamics and aircraft systems
  • Practical Test (Check Ride): A flight test where you demonstrate your ability to fly the aircraft and perform maneuvers required for each certification.

6. Additional Ratings and Endorsements

Depending on the type of flying you want to do, you may need to add various ratings to your license:

  • Instrument Rating (IR): Allows you to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR) in low visibility conditions.
  • Multi-Engine Rating (MER): For flying aircraft with more than one engine.
  • Flight Instructor Rating (CFI): Allows you to teach other pilots.
  • Seaplane Rating: For flying seaplanes.

7. Explore Career Opportunities

After obtaining your CPL and additional ratings, you can pursue various flying careers:

  • Commercial Airline Pilot: Fly for major airlines as an airline captain or first officer.
  • Corporate Pilot: Fly private jets for businesses or wealthy individuals.
  • Flight Instructor: Teach aspiring pilots.
  • Charter Pilot: Fly smaller aircraft for private charter companies.

8. Stay Current with Recurrent Training

  • Pilots are required to complete recurrent training and medical checks to maintain their certification. This ensures they remain updated on aviation regulations, new technology, and flight safety procedures.

9. Understand the Costs

  • Flight Training Costs: Flight school can be expensive, with costs ranging between $10,000 to $15,000 for a PPL and between $50,000 to $80,000 for a CPL, depending on the school and location. Prices may vary based on the type of program and aircraft used.

10. Consider a Degree in Aviation

While not required, obtaining a degree in aviation can provide a solid foundation in aviation theory and help with career advancement. Many universities offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aviation or aerospace engineering, which can be combined with flight training programs.

Conclusion

Becoming a pilot in the U.S. is a rewarding journey that requires education, training, and certification. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can work your way from high school to professional pilot training and into a successful aviation career. Start with solid academic preparation in high school, choose a flight school that fits your goals, and remain committed to safety and continuous learning.