The Best Way to Become a Pilot
Pilots are responsible for transporting people, baggage and cargo. There are usually two pilots on a crew, a captain and a first officer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for pilots is expected to grow 12 percent between 2008 and 2018. Before launching this career, you'll need to earn the required education and take an exam to become licensed.
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Instructions
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Get the necessary education. Pilots need to complete at least an associate's degree in aviation studies, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This degree takes two years of full-time study to complete. During your course work, you'll study aeronautical engineering, math and physics.
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Complete the required flight experience. There are several options for getting this. Some pilots get the experience by joining the armed forces. Flight schools also offer opportunities to earn flight experience. During school, pilots log flight hours with instructors licensed through the Federal Aviation Administration.
As of 2008, there were 650 flight schools in America. Flight school typically lasts several weeks. Students start out in flight simulators and move on to real planes for the last 250 hours of training. Find flight schools by contacting the United States Pilots Association (see References).
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Apply for a pilot's license with the FAA. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to get licensed, applicants must be 18 or older and have 250 hours of flight experience. The FAA also requires that applicants pass a physical examination to prove they're in good health. A written test is also taken and covers flight safety, flight techniques and rules of navigation.
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Apply for pilot positions. An entry-level position for a pilot is a first officer's job. Private flight companies often need new pilots. Check out specialized job search engines like Pilot Jobs (see Resources) or professional associations such as the United States Pilots Association to find positions.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider earning a bachelor's degree in aviation studies. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most employers prefer to hire pilots with this degree. Completing a higher level of education will provide more career opportunities and higher income potential.
If you plan on working for commercial airlines, FAA requirements for licensure are stricter. Pilots must complete 1,500 hours of flight experience and pass a psychological test to get licensed.
