Steps To Becoming A Commercial Pilot
Over the last few years, pilot training has acquired popularity among the young generation. More and more young boys and girls seek pilot training and choose aviation as their career. Training to become a pilot is not easy as it requires hours of simulation training, determination, and passion. Training for part 135 pilot requirements is different from other pilot training categories.
Part 135 training is stricter
Part 135 operators have to train under strict regulatory safety measures. Furthermore, candidates also train to land in low visibility and other unforeseen situations. Being an airline pilot is a lucrative career option. Candidates with no prior experience need to abide by certain steps to become a pilot and make their living.
Acquiring a private pilot certificate
The first step in becoming an airline pilot is to acquire a private pilot certificate issued by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). The training mainly focuses on the fundamentals of flying a single-engine airplane and thereby sets the path for more advanced pilot training certification. Without a private pilot certificate issued by the FAA, no one can register themselves as a commercial pilot.
Earning an instrument rating and commercial pilot certificate
Once a candidate becomes a private pilot, the following step is to acquire an instrument rating. This is necessary as it enables the pilot to fly under IFR or Instrument Flight Rules and in all kinds of weather situations. The next step is to acquire the commercial pilot certificate. The candidates must cater to the specific experience requirements and fly maintaining top-notch standards to become commercial pilots. This officially allows the pilots to legally get paid for flying airplanes.
Acquire flight instructor certificate and multi-engine rating
When a candidate meets the requirements to become a commercial pilot, he/she needs to acquire the flight instructor certificate. Acquiring the CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) allows the pilots to make a living from flying as they acquire flying experience as demanded by leading airlines in the country. When a pilot has to fly large passenger airplanes, he/she is mandated to include the multi-engine privileges in their commercial pilot certificates. Furthermore, it is better to meet part 135 pilot requirements as it can reflect positivity in the resumes.
Gaining experience
One also needs to acquire ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) certificate. This indicates the quality and flight experience that are required to cater to the requirements of becoming a commercial pilot. Commercial pilots are required to hold a minimum of 1500 hours of flight time. If a pilot has an experience of 500 hours to 1500 hours of total flight time, he/she can interview for the First Officer position in the desired airline.
Conclusion
When one wants to aim to fly for American Airlines, he/she must gain knowledge and understanding of part 135 pilot requirements and other training details. Earning the pilot certificate issued by the FAA is the first step toward becoming a pilot and paving the way for advanced pilot training certificates. With no experience in the field, one can train to become a commercial airline pilot in two years.