6 Steps To Becoming Eligible To Become A Pilot
Posted on: 23 November 2016
If you have big dreams of becoming a pilot, never fear. The process to becoming a pilot may not be a simple one, but you certainly have the opportunity to take courses. Taking aviation courses through a place like the Institute of Aviation at Parkland College makes it easy for you to determine whether or not flight is for you.
1. Fulfill age and language requirements.
In order to become a student pilot, you need to be at least 16 years old. Additionally, you need to be able to understand, read, and speak English according to rules as part of the Federal Aviation Regulation. If you want to become a private pilot, you must be 17 years or older. If you want to receive your commercial pilot license or become an instructor, you must be at least 18. Airline transport pilots are required to be at least 23.
2. Complete ground school.
Your next step in the process of becoming a pilot is to complete ground school, which is completed before you ever even get into a plane. These steps prepare you to fly and require a written examination. These courses are usually completed in a classroom or occasionally online. Completion of the ground school gives you access to the written exam.
3. Choose a flight school.
The flight school you choose will have a significant impact on the way you learn how to fly. There are several different types of training programs to consider. For instance, you may consider a fast-track airline program that will help you work in a commercial setting. You can also take a training program at a college or university. Finally, you also have the choice of a local airport fixed based operator.
4. Attend flight training sessions.
You have your choice of several different flight training programs. Some training programs are flexible, allowing you to learn at a pace that you set. If you intend to take a longer period of time to complete your program, these can help. The courses offered at larger institutions may be quicker. You might find these flight training programs at universities and colleges. This is because they are very structured.
5. Fulfill medical requirements.
Before you are allowed to man an aircraft on your own, flight school requires that you receive a medical certificate. You will need to go to a medical exam. During this exam, you will be asked about previous health issues in addition to ongoing concerns. You will also undergo tests for vision and hearing.
6. Build hours to put under your belt.
If you want to apply for certification, you must have a certain number of hours of experience. It generally takes more hours than are offered during flight training. It is only after gaining all these hours that you will have the opportunity to seek a position with the company of your choice. Different types of jobs will have different requirements specific to their needs.
Still want to become a pilot? Reach out to aviation school to learn more about opportunities in your area.
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