What Does it Really Take to Become an Airline Pilot?

Commercial Airline Pilots have an aura about them, don’t they? There’s something about the aviator sunglasses, the sharp uniform, and the ability to fly a massive multi-ton piece of machinery through the sky that commands respect.

Right now, there is a huge demand for qualified pilots, and airlines are offering high salaries and bonuses to fill gaps. High Flight Academy is doing our part to train and prepare students of all levels to take advantage of this demand!

But what does it actually take to become a commercial airline pilot? Our High Gear to Airline Career program breaks the process down into four steps. In as little as two years, you can go from having absolutely no experience to being a certified professional pilot. Here’s how it works…

Step 1

 

First 12 Months – High Gear to Airline Pilot Career

In our Career Pilot program, your training will be airline-focused from the start. When you graduate in as little as nine months, you will have earned your Commercial Multi-Engine pilot certificate plus CFI certificates.

Getting Started:

  • No experience necessary
  • Training is available for US and Non-US citizens
  • Open every day from 7 A.M. to 8:30 P.M.
  • Conveniently located at the Pittsburgh-Butler Regional Airport
  • You set the pace for your own training. Accelerated programs are now available!

Step 2

Work as a Flight Instructor

After completing the program, we will assist you in getting a Flight Instructor job to gain the necessary 1,500 hours required by airlines. After 500 hours as a flight instructor, you can begin earning at least $11,000 in airline-sponsored tuition reimbursement (if qualified).

Step 3

Start Your Career as an Airline Pilot

After as little as 1.5 years as a flight instructor, you will have the minimum requirements to become a professional airline pilot! Throughout your training with us, you will have opportunities to network and connect with industry leaders, helping you land the job of your dreams with a prestigious airline.

 

It’s not all about the money and the prestige: we want to help you find a life-long career you can be passionate about and successful in pursuing. Call or email us to discuss taking your first steps toward become a professional airline pilot!