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A Career in the Skies: What It Takes to Become a Commercial Pilot

Dreaming of becoming a commercial pilot? It's a rewarding career, but it takes dedication, training, and the right guidance to get there.

November 3, 2024

1. Discovery Flight: Your First Experience

Every journey starts with a first step, and in aviation, that step is your discovery flight. This introductory flight gives you the chance to sit in the cockpit, take the controls, and experience what flying is really like. It’s the perfect way to decide if a career in aviation is right for you.

2. Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

The first major milestone in your training is earning your Private Pilot Licence (PPL). The PPL allows you to fly an aircraft solo and with passengers, giving you the foundational skills needed to progress toward a career in aviation. At the Aviation Academy, we guide you through ground school and flight lessons, providing you with the knowledge and hands-on experience to achieve your PPL.

3. Hour Building and Night Rating

Once you’ve earned your PPL, it’s time to build flight hours. Hour building is essential for gaining experience and confidence in different flying conditions. During this stage, you can also obtain a Night Rating, which allows you to fly after sunset. Building these hours is key to preparing for more advanced training.

4. Restricted Instrument Rating (IR)

The Restricted Instrument Rating is an important step that allows you to fly in a wider range of weather conditions, relying on the aircraft’s instruments. This training helps you develop skills for safe flying when visibility is poor, preparing you for the kind of flying required in a commercial setting.

5. Advanced Theory: ATPL Ground School

Commercial aviation demands a deep understanding of both practical and theoretical knowledge. Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) theory covers subjects such as navigation, meteorology, air law, and more. At the Aviation Academy, we offer the flexibility to study remotely or attend classroom sessions, helping you complete this important stage at your own pace.

6. Multi-Engine Rating (MEP)

To work as a commercial pilot, you'll need to be comfortable flying multi-engine aircraft. Our Multi-Engine Piston (MEP) Rating gives you the experience and skills needed to operate larger, more complex aircraft—skills that are crucial for a career in the commercial aviation sector.

7. Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR)

To advance toward a career as a commercial pilot, you’ll need a full Instrument Rating (IR). The Competency-Based Instrument Rating (CB-IR) offers a flexible path to obtaining this qualification, allowing you to build on the skills you learned during the restricted IR phase. This rating is essential for flying in all weather conditions, opening the door to professional opportunities.

8. Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

The next big step is obtaining your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), which allows you to get paid for flying. At this stage, you’ll refine your flying skills, focusing on advanced maneuvers and developing the precision required for commercial operations. This is where all of your previous training comes together, preparing you for a career in aviation.

9. Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) and Airline Pilot Standard (APS MCC)

Once you have your CPL, it’s time to prepare for airline operations. Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) training focuses on working as part of a cockpit team, while the Airline Pilot Standard (APS MCC) program goes even further, equipping you with the skills to operate safely and efficiently as part of a multi-crew environment. This training is essential for pilots aiming to join an airline.

10. Begin Your Career

With all the necessary licences and ratings under your belt, you’re ready to launch your career. Whether your goal is to join a major airline, become a flight instructor, or work in charter operations, the training you’ve received at the Aviation Academy prepares you for success. Our career-focused pathway helps ensure that you’re not just meeting the requirements, but truly ready to excel in your career.

Ready to Take Off?

Becoming a commercial pilot takes commitment and the right training, but with a clear pathway, your dream is achievable. At the Aviation Academy, we provide the support, modern equipment, and structured training you need to succeed. Ready to take the first step? The sky’s the limit.

Next Steps

Book a meeting with the team, view our live and on demand webinars or take a look at our pricing in our digital brochure.

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Training Experience

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