How to Become a Pilot (Step-By-Step Guide)

Summary

This script outlines the journey to becoming a professional pilot, emphasizing the need for medical certification, choosing the right flight school, and the importance of selecting a compatible instructor. It details the steps from obtaining a private pilot certificate to achieving an airline transport pilot certificate, including the costs and experiences involved. The video also provides tips for passing exams and gaining necessary flight hours, offering inspiration and practical advice for aspiring pilots.

Takeaways

• 🚑 To become a paid pilot, you need at least a second class medical certificate, and a first class is required for airline pilots.
• 🔍 It's recommended to get a medical certificate before flight training to avoid any health-related surprises.
• 🚫 Color vision deficiency can restrict one to recreational flying during the day, but passing a color vision test is crucial for a professional flying career.
• 🏫 Choosing the right flight school is critical; consider the difference between Part 61 and Part 141 schools, their flexibility, structure, and costs.
• 🛫 The proximity of the flight school to your home and the condition of their aircraft are important factors in your training experience.
• 👨‍✈️ Selecting the right flight instructor is essential; their professionalism and attitude can greatly affect your training.
• 🛰️ Intro flights at different schools can help you gauge the operation and find a good fit with an instructor.
• 📚 Preparation is key for flight lessons; knowing what to expect and being ready for each lesson is important.
• 📝 The Private Pilot Knowledge Test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and scoring 70% or higher is required to pass.
• 🎓 After passing the knowledge test, an in-person test with a DPE, including an oral and flight portion, is necessary to earn your private pilot certificate.
• ⏳ The time to get a private pilot certificate varies, averaging 70-80 hours of flight time, depending on various factors.
• 💼 Gaining experience and obtaining an instrument rating is necessary before pursuing a commercial pilot certificate, which involves more complex tests and requirements.
• 💰 The cost of becoming a pilot can vary greatly, from medical certificates to flight school fees, and even instructor ratings.

Q & A

What is the minimum medical certificate required to get paid to fly?

At least a second class medical certificate is needed to get paid to fly. For those planning to become an airline pilot, a first class medical is required.

Why is it recommended to get a medical certificate before starting flight training?

It is recommended to prevent any surprises down the line, as some medical conditions can prevent an individual from becoming a pilot.

What is one of the common medical concerns for pilots?

Color vision deficiency is a common concern. While color blind pilots can still fly recreationally during the day, they are restricted from making a career out of flying unless they pass a color vision test.

What are the two types of flight schools mentioned in the script?

The two types of flight schools are Part 61 and Part 141. Part 61 schools offer more flexible training programs, while Part 141 schools are more rigid and structured but allow for faster licensing.

What should be considered when choosing a flight school?

Factors to consider include the type of flight school (Part 61 or Part 141), the distance from home, the condition and type of airplanes operated by the school, and the cost.

Why is choosing the right flight instructor important?

The right instructor is crucial as they can make or break the flight training experience. They should be professional, enthusiastic, and welcoming.

What is an intro flight and why is it recommended to take multiple intro flights?

An intro flight is the first flight before officially beginning training, usually consisting of a scenic route with an instructor. It is recommended to take multiple intro flights to get a sense of how different flight schools and instructors operate.

What is the structure of a typical flight lesson?

A typical flight lesson starts with an overview by the instructor, followed by heading out to the airplane. The lesson involves the instructor demonstrating a procedure or maneuver, which the student then attempts to perform, with continuous practice until the instructor is satisfied.

What is the Private Pilot Knowledge Test and what score is required to pass it?

The Private Pilot Knowledge Test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 2 hours. A score of 70% or higher is required to pass.

What is the process after passing the Private Pilot Knowledge Test?

After passing the Knowledge Test, the next step is an in-person test with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), which includes an oral exam and a flight portion known as a check ride.

How long does it typically take to obtain a Private Pilot Certificate?

If training full-time, it can take around 3 to 6 months, with an average of 70 to 80 hours of flight time, depending on various factors such as weather and airspace.

What additional qualifications are needed before obtaining a Commercial Pilot Certificate?

Before obtaining a Commercial Pilot Certificate, one needs to gain flying experience, obtain an instrument rating, and meet a minimum of 250 hours of flight time, although this can vary based on the type of flight school.

What is the significance of an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate?

The ATP Certificate is required to fly for an airline and requires 1,500 hours of flight time. It is the final step before being able to apply for airline jobs.

What are the approximate costs associated with obtaining various pilot certificates?

Medical certificate costs range from $75 to $200. The Private Pilot certificate averages $15,000 to $20,000, the Commercial Pilot certificate around $55,000, and the ATP certificate approximately $5,000, if not covered by an airline or a flight school.

Outlines

00:00

😀 Becoming a Pilot: Medical Requirements and Choosing a Flight School

This paragraph outlines the initial steps to becoming a pilot, emphasizing the necessity of obtaining a medical certificate, ideally a first-class one for aspiring airline pilots. It also addresses common medical concerns, such as color vision deficiency, and its impact on flying careers. The paragraph then shifts to the critical decision of selecting a flight school, discussing the differences between Part 61 and Part 141 schools, and the importance of considering factors like commute time, aircraft condition, and instructor compatibility. It suggests trying introductory flights with different instructors to find the right fit and describes the structure of a typical flight lesson, including pre-flight preparation, in-flight training, and post-flight debriefing.

05:03

📚 Pilot Training and Certification Process

The second paragraph delves into the process of pilot training, starting with the first solo flight and moving on to the Private Pilot Knowledge Test, which consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours with a passing score of 70% or higher. It promotes an online ground school designed to prepare students for this test. After passing the knowledge test, students face an in-person evaluation by a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), which includes an oral exam and a flight test, assessing the candidate's aviation knowledge, flight planning, and decision-making skills. The paragraph also discusses the time and flight hour requirements for obtaining a private pilot certificate, the additional steps to get an instrument rating and a commercial pilot certificate, and the experience needed before pursuing an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.

10:04

💰 The Financial Aspect of Becoming a Pilot

The final paragraph addresses the costs associated with becoming a pilot, starting with the expenses of obtaining medical certificates and the varying costs of flight training for private and commercial pilot certificates. It also touches on the potential costs of gaining a flight instructor certificate as a means to accumulate experience. The paragraph provides an estimated cost for each type of certification and mentions that while some airlines may sponsor ATP certification, individuals might need to bear the expense themselves. It concludes by acknowledging the overwhelming nature of the information but encourages aspiring pilots with success stories of others who have achieved their pilot certificates in record time.

Keywords

💡Medical Certificate

A medical certificate is a document issued by an aviation medical examiner that certifies an individual's health and fitness to meet the requirements for a specific class of pilot's license. In the video, it is mentioned that a second class medical certificate is needed for most flying careers, and a first class is required for aspiring airline pilots. The script also highlights the importance of obtaining this certificate prior to flight training to avoid any surprises that could prevent an individual from pursuing a career as a pilot.

💡Color Vision Test

The color vision test is a medical examination that checks an individual's ability to perceive colors accurately, which is crucial for certain professions, including aviation. The script points out that while color blind pilots can still fly recreationally during the day, passing a color vision test is necessary for those who wish to make a career out of flying, as it ensures the pilot can accurately interpret various cockpit instruments and signals.

💡Flight School

A flight school is an educational institution that provides training in flying and often issues pilot licenses. The script emphasizes the importance of choosing the right flight school, as it can significantly impact one's flying career. It discusses two types of flight schools: Part 61, which offers flexible training, and Part 141, which is more structured and can lead to faster licensing but at a higher cost.

💡Instructor

An instructor in the context of flight training is a qualified individual who teaches and guides students through their pilot training. The script advises students to carefully choose their flight instructors, as their professionalism, enthusiasm, and teaching style can greatly affect the quality of the training experience. It also suggests taking introductory flights with multiple instructors to find the best fit.

💡Private Pilot Certificate

The private pilot certificate is a license that allows an individual to fly an aircraft without compensation and with certain restrictions. The script explains that earning this certificate involves passing a knowledge test and a check ride, and it typically requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time. It is the first step towards becoming a professional pilot.

💡Knowledge Test

The knowledge test is a written examination that assesses an individual's understanding of aviation principles and regulations. The script mentions that the private pilot knowledge test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and must be passed with a score of at least 70%. Preparation is key, and the script suggests using specific online ground school resources to aid in passing the test.

💡Check Ride

A check ride is an in-person test conducted by a designated pilot examiner (DPE) to assess a pilot's qualifications, proficiency, and safety. The script describes the check ride as having both an oral and a flight portion, where the candidate demonstrates their aviation knowledge and flying skills. Passing the check ride is a requirement for obtaining a pilot certificate.

💡Commercial Pilot Certificate

The commercial pilot certificate allows an individual to fly for compensation or hire. The script outlines that obtaining this certificate involves passing a more difficult knowledge test and a stricter check ride compared to the private pilot certificate. Additionally, it requires a significant amount of flight experience, with a minimum of 250 hours, which can be reduced to 190 hours at a Part 141 flight school.

💡Instrument Rating

An instrument rating is a qualification that allows a pilot to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR), which is necessary for flying in limited visibility conditions. The script explains that to obtain an instrument rating, a pilot must pass both a written test and a practical test, demonstrating the ability to navigate and operate the aircraft using only cockpit instruments.

💡Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP)

The airline transport pilot certificate is the highest level of pilot certification, required to fly for airlines. The script states that obtaining an ATP requires a significant amount of flight experience, specifically 1,500 hours. Many pilots gain these hours through instructing or other commercial flying jobs before they can apply for airline jobs.

💡Flight Instructor Certificate

A flight instructor certificate allows an individual to teach and train other pilots. The script suggests that obtaining this certificate is one of the best ways to gain experience before moving on to airline jobs. It also mentions that some flight schools may pay for additional upgrades to an instructor rating.

Highlights

To become a pilot, one must obtain at least a second class medical certificate, and a first class for airline pilots.

Passing a color vision test is crucial for a flying career, with restrictions for color blind pilots.

Choosing a flight school is a critical decision, with considerations for part 61 or part 141 schools.

Part 141 flight schools offer a faster, but more expensive, structured training program.

Distance from home to the flight school and the condition of the aircraft are important factors.

Selecting the right flight instructor is essential for a successful training experience.

Intro flights at different schools can help determine the best fit for flight training.

Flight training involves a structured lesson plan with demonstrations and practice.

Preparing for lessons in advance is important for effective flight training.

The private pilot certificate allows flying with passengers without compensation.

Instructors endorse students for their first solo flight when they are confident in their abilities.

The Private Pilot Knowledge Test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions with a 70% passing score.

Preparation is key to passing the knowledge test, with resources available to assist.

The check ride with a DPE assesses proficiency and safety as a pilot.

Full-time training for a private pilot certificate can take 3 to 6 months.

Obtaining an instrument rating allows for flying in limited visibility using cockpit instruments.

The commercial pilot certificate requires at least 250 hours of flight time.

Gaining experience as a flight instructor can be a pathway to an airline transport pilot certificate.

Costs for medical certificates, private and commercial pilot certificates, and additional ratings vary significantly.

Employment as a flight instructor can provide income while gaining necessary experience.

The journey to becoming an airline pilot can be inspiring and achievable, as shown by student interviews.

Transcripts

career if you want to get paid to fly

you will need at least a second class

medical certificate and if you plan to

become an airline pilot you will need a

first class medical I recommend that you

get one of those prior to starting

Flight Training to prevent any surprises

down the line most people pass the

medical exam without an issue but some

medical conditions can prevent you from

becoming a pilot one of the most common

concern is color vision deficiency now

Color Blind Pilots can still fly but

they're usually restricted to Flying

recreationally and only during the day

so if you want to make a career out of

flying you will need to pass a color

vision test if you're concerned about

color blindness or other health

conditions we've linked additional

information in the description below

your Amame also can address some of the

concerns you may have we've also added a

link down here to help you find an am

near you okay so you meet the medical

requirements what's next well you need

to choose a flight school this is one of

the most important decision you will

make in your flying career if you make

the wrong choice it could end your dream

entirely here's what you need to know

about selecting a flight school the

first thing to consider is whether to go

for a part 61 or part 141 flight school

basically there are two types of flight

schools and different rules apply to

them in general part 61 schools offer

more flexible training programs on the

other hand part 141 schools are more

rigid and structured you can get your

license faster at a part 141 flight

school but they are more expensive to

learn more check out this video right

here where I explain the difference in

detail another consideration is the

distance between your home and the

flight school now keep in mind that your

commute could add a significant amount

of time to your training so plan

accordingly next consider the type of

airplane that the flight school operates

the most important thing make sure that

the airplanes are in good condition and

wellmaintained newer aircraft are an

advantage especially if they have glass

cockpits but you don't need to fly the

latest and greatest to get your license

there's definitely a premium to newer

aircraft

step three after you choose a flight

school you'll need to choose an

instructor a lot of students don't even

think about choosing a fight instructor

this is a big mistake the wrong

instructor can make or break your flight

training experience here's how to make

the right choice first make a list of

the flight schools near you visit a few

of them and then speak with the

instructors are they professional

enthusiastic welcoming that's a great

sign a happy instructor is a good

instructor or do the instructors look

like they haven't slept in day and maybe

wear a permanent frown well you might

want to look elsewhere in this case now

consider doing an intro flight at

several flight schools this is the first

flight you will have before officially

beginning your training it usually

consists of a scening route with an

instructor and it's a great way to get a

good sense of how flight school operates

it's also a good idea to take multiple

intro flights with several instructors

at different flight schools before you

make a choice also don't hesitate to

request different instructors early on

if you feel like they're not a good fit

once you've chosen your flight school

and instructor it's time to start Flight

Training now this can be a little bit

scary especially if you don't know what

you expect now let's talk about the

structure of a typical flight lesson

first your instructor will give you an

overview of the lesson it's very

important that you prepare four lessons

ahead of time then you'll both head out

to the airplane what you do during the

flight depends on the lesson but there

is a general structure your instructor

will typically demonstrate a procedure

or maneuver then you will try to do it

on your own now you'll continue doing

that until they are happy with your

performance now I expect a postflight

briefing at the end of the lesson you're

a new instructor will discuss your

performance what you did well and also

what needs Improvement this is also a

good time to learn about your next

flight now with each flight and ground

lesson you get closer to earning your

private pirate certificate the one that

will allow you to fly with passengers

without getting paid when your

instructor is confident in your

abilities they'll endorse you for for

your first solo which is exactly what it

sounds like you will be flying the

airplane on your own for the first time

very exciting after you start flying

solo it's time to think about taking

your knowledge test now this is the

first official test that you will need

to take so what does the test consist of

well the Private Pilot Knowledge Test

has 60 multiple choice questions you

will have 2 hours to complete it and you

need to score 70% or higher so here's

what you should do to pass with flying

colors the key is prepar ation don't

expect to read just a few books and then

go pass the test now luckily that's

where we can help our Private Pilot Made

Easy online Ground School is designed to

help you pass the exam we're so

confident that we'll even send you $175

and a full refund if you don't pass on

the first try now click on the link in

the description to learn more you're

almost there after you've passed your

Knowledge Test the only thing left is an

in-person test with a designated pilot

examiner or DPE DPE is an exper examiner

approved by the FAA their job is to make

sure that you are qualified proficient

and a safe pilot this in-person test is

also known as a practical test or more

commonly a check ride the check ride has

an oral and a flight portion the oral

exam happens on the ground and consists

of a conversation between you and the

DPE they're going to evaluate your

Aviation knowledge your flight planning

and the decision- making skills it can

range anywhere between an hour and a

half to 3 hours now when your DPE is

happy with your knowledge it's time to

hop in the aircraft during the flight

portion you will demonstrate various

skills Maneuvers and that usually takes

about an hour the DP wants to see you

operate the aircraft safely and with

Precision it will also test your

decision-making abilities in the

aircraft if the DP is happy with your

skills you will become the country's

newest pilot congratulations this is the

first step on the way to becoming an

airline pilot so how long does it take

to get your private pirate certificate

well if you're training full-time can be

around 3 to 6 months you'll need a

minimum of 40 hours of flight time but

the average person takes about 70 to 80

hours it really depends on the weather

the type of airspace that you learn in

how consistently you fly and in many

other

factors okay so you're pilot but you

can't get paid to fly just yet before

you get your commercial pilot

certificate you need to obtain flying

experience and an instrument rating

here's how an instrument rating allows

you to fly an aircraft in limited

visibility using only the instruments in

the cockpit similar to the private

pattern process you'll need to pass a

written and a practical test good news

if your current fly instructor can

provide instrument training you can

continue to fly with them the experience

is pretty much the same as your Private

Pilot training just more complex

Concepts after you get your instrument

rating you're almost there the bad news

well now you need to get a commercial

pirot certificate the good news the

process is very similar to your Private

Pilot certificate there's a knowledge

test and a check ride that follows the

same format we just discussed the

biggest difference is the level of

difficulty the commercial Knowledge Test

covers much more than the private pirate

test and the check ride is way more

strict but what makes the commercial

certificate especially difficult is how

much experience you need for starters

you'll need at least 250 hours of flight

time now at a part 141 flight school you

only need 190 hours but it still takes a

significant amount of time and money to

achieve once you pass the commercial

check ride you can finally get paid to

fly if you train full-time you can

expect to obtain your commercial

certificate in about 6 to 18 months keep

in mind that this can vary depending on

the weather and the flight scool now

it's time to go straight to the airlines

right well not exactly before you fly

the big jets you need more hours under

your belt that's why many commercial

pilots become flying structures it's a

fantastic way to quickly gain experience

at this point you should also get your

multi-engine tring this allows you to

fly aircraft with more than one engine

But ultimately you need an airline

transport pilot certificate in order to

fly for an airline and that requires

1,500 hours of flight time now many

inspiring airline pilots gain those

hours by instructing some Pilots also

find other commercial flying jobs that

don't require an ATP many do a bit of

both once you've earned that ATP

certificate your dream is finally Within

Reach and now you can start to apply for

Airline jobs it can take anywhere from 2

to 5 years in order to obtain that ATP

certificate depending on the type of

flying that you do now you may say what

is this going to cost Well Medical

certificate can cost anywhere between

$75 to $200 depending on the type of

certificate and also the doctor your

Private Pilot certificate will average $

15 to

$20,000 this also varies significantly

depending on the flight school type of

aircraft the instructor or even the

location the commercial pilot

certificate is the most expensive expect

around

$55,000 this can even go into six

figures depending on the flight school

you should also consider the cost of

obtaining your flight instructure

certificate now this is not a

requirement but it's one of the best way

to gain experience before you go to the

airlines a fly instructor rating will

cost around $5,000 the good news is that

once you are employed as a fly

instructor or you can start to get paid

to fly you flight school might even pay

for additional upgrades to your

instructor rating and finally your ATP

certificate some Airlines might pay for

your ATP but if you have to pay for it

yourself it will cost around

$5,000 now I know you're probably a

little intimidated at this stage by all

of this information but guess what

hundreds of thousands of people just

like you have become Pilots we even had

an interview with one of our students

who completed his Private Pilot

certificate in 40 hours that's the least

amount of time possible so if you want

to get some inspiration and learn a few

valuable tips check out this interview

right here thanks for watching and we'll

see you in the next one