How To Become An Airline Pilot

In our recent guide, we outlined steps to becoming a pilot in general aviation and if you’re still deciding whether you want to become a pilot or not, we urge you to read our first guide before jumping into this one. If you have already read that guide and / or you have definitely decided you want to be an airline pilot, feel free to skip the steps you’ve already completed as a part of our first guide. However, if you are starting fresh, but know you have a strong interest in becoming an airline pilot, read on for a comprehensive guide for starting your airline pilot career.

Phase 1: Self-Discovery (Skip if completed)

Earning a general private pilot license is one thing, but getting paid to fly and for major or regional airlines is an entirely different journey and as such, it requires a different set of skills, temperament, and professionalism. That is why, it’s incredibly important that you understand yourself, your values and interests, and your strengths to know if you’re the right fit for the airline pilot career.

Step 1: Check Your Airline Pilot Eligibility

Before you start this exciting and lucrative career path, it is worth checking that you meet the minimum requirements for granting a license as defined by the Federal Aviation Authority. It is important to note that there are two versions of the airline pilot certificate: ATP and Restricted ATP, while there are also prerequisite certificates needed before you can apply for either, such as a commercial pilot certificate which allows you to be paid to fly in general.

Minimum Airline Pilot Eligibility Requirements:

- Airline Transport Pilot Requirements: To apply to be an airline transport pilot, one must be at least 23 years old (or 21 years old in certain cases) and have accrued a minimum of 1,500 flying hours (with some exceptions.) Applicants must have a commercial pilot license with an instrument rating and complete an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate Training Program (ATP-CTP)
- Restricted Airline Transport Pilot Requirements: A Restricted ATP (R-ATP) is offered to certain pilots with fewer than 1,500 hours. Graduates of an FAA- approved aviation Bachelor’s program from an accredited university can obtain a Restricted ATP with just 1,000 hours. Associate degree graduates can obtain an R-ATP with 1,250 hours.
- First-Class Medical Certificate: In addition to obtaining the required pilot certificates, an airline transport pilot acting as pilot in command must also hold a first-class medical certificate. An ATP acting as second in command can sometimes maintain a second-class medical per the FAA requirement, but some operators will still require all pilots to maintain a first-class medical.

Medical Certificate Types
Type	Required For
1st Class Medical Certificate	Airline Transport Pilot Certificate Serving as a flight crew member in airlines after reaching your 60th birthday. Operating as second-in-command in the airlines on an aircraft that requires three or more pilots.
2nd Class Medical Certificate	Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (Only for Second-in-Command Privileges) Commercial Pilot Certificate
3rd Class Medical Certificate	Student Pilot Certificate Recreational Pilot Certificate Private Pilot Certificate

Step 2: Take a Discovery Flight

If you already have some flying experience or license, feel free to skip this step; however, if you’re brand new to aviation, consider taking what is called a discovery flight, also known as a trial flight. A discovery flight allows you to gauge whether you really enjoy flying before building an entire career on it.

How to Get a Free Discovery Flight

Many discovery flights will cost around $100, but there are avenues for getting a free discovery flight:

- EAA’s Free Young Eagles Flights: Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is a community organization for people interested in a variety of aviation related activities. They also offer free discovery flights for kids and teens ages 8-17. You can learn more at https://www.eaa.org/eaa/youth/free-ye-flights
- Ask everyone you know for connections to local pilots they might know. Pilots love an excuse to fly, and most are happy to take newcomers for a ride!

Step 3: Assess Your Interests & Values

Assessing your personal interests and values can help you to identify how well you fit into an airline pilot career role. This is a vital step in building a fulfilling career that aligns with your overall goals professionally and in life in general.

Self-Discovery Assessments for interests, values, and more:

- MAPP: The Motivational Appraisal of Personal Potential is a career assessment that focuses on what motivates you. They offer a free and paid version of the assessment, with trillions of unique results written in narrative format that cover things like your learning style, how you relate to people, data, things, etc.
- 16Personalities: This assessment uses the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) for determining personality types. 16Personalities categorizes these types into four different domains: Analysts, Diplomats, Sentinels, and Explorers.
- Keirsey Temperaments: The Keirsey assessment is a great resource for understanding how you communicate with others and how you take action and is a good complement to the 16Personalities.

Step 4: Assess Your Personal Strengths & Areas For Growth

Another key part of career planning is recognizing your personal strengths and identifying areas for growth. Understanding where you excel—and where you could use more development—can help you set meaningful short-term goals for Step 4. By targeting specific skills to build or refine, you’ll create a clearer, more focused path forward.

How to Assess Your Strengths:

- StrengthsFinder: This assessment helps you rank your strengths in order from strongest to weakest and helps you identify your top 5 strengths and your primary domain of strengths. It also advises on what areas you can strengthen and what areas to avoid personally and professionally.

Step 5: Set Short-Term & Long-Term Goals

Setting goals is a continual process that you should be doing on a regular basis throughout your career.

Setting Long-Term Goals

Long-term goals are those that typically take a significant amount of time, often longer than a year. Many career oriented goal planning is divided into 3- year, 5-year, 10-year, and/or life-time milestones. Long-term goals also help you identify the short-term goals that will help you to achieve your longer-term goals.

Long-Term Goals to Consider:

- - - Earn a Senior-Level or above role at an airline..
    - Earn a degree. While earning a degree is not a requirement by the FAA to become a commercial pilot, some companies do require or prefer it. A degree can also help you stand out when you are preparing to advance your career.
    - Develop a professional network. You begin developing your network at any stage; however, it’s important to nurture a network of professionals you can rely on at every stage and throughout your career.
    - Get your Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.

Setting Short-Term Goals

Short-term goals are those that you can complete within a year or less, often within weeks or months. A typical cadence for evaluating your short-term goals and creating new ones is on a quarterly basis: 1st Quarter (Jan-Mar), 2nd Quarter (April-June), 3rd Quarter (July-September), 4th Quarter (October-December)

Your short-term goals will depend heavily on where you are at in your journey. And, if you’re reading this guide, it’s likely that you are at the very beginning and to help you along, we recommend adding some or all of the following items to your short-term goals along the way.

Recommended Short-Term Goals to Include at this Stage

- - Complete Phases 1-3 in this guide. The first 3 phases of this guide are aimed at helping you prepare yourself for success.
  - Create a strategy for personal growth. Create a plan for strengthening the areas of growth identified in the previous section.
  - Earn necessary credentials. Complete the Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, and Commercial Pilot Certificate.

Phase 2: Explore Airline Career Paths

If you’re confident that becoming an airline pilot is the right path for you, the next step is to start learning about the airlines and identifying the type of carrier you’d like to work for. Airlines differ in many ways, including location, company culture, work schedules, compensation, and benefits.

Begin by researching various airlines to understand how they operate and what they offer. There’s a wealth of information available online, including company websites, pilot forums, and industry publications. In addition to online research, consider attending airline career fairs, talking to current airline pilots, and, if possible, shadowing a pilot. These experiences can provide valuable insight into the day-to-day realities of the job and help you determine which airline might be the best fit for your goals.

Step 6: Research Airlines

Research is a necessary step in determining your path to becoming a commercial pilot. You’ll want to discover everything you can about the different operators within the airline industry in order to determine which path or company best suits you.

The FAA defines an air carrier in 14 CFR 1.1 Definitions: “Air carrier means a person who undertakes directly by lease, or other arrangement, to engage in air transportation.”

Major Airlines: Major airlines include the largest airlines in the world such as Delta, United, American, British Airways, Lufthansa, Qantas, etc. These airlines have hubs in major cities and often fly internationally.
Regional Airlines: The little brother to the major airlines are the regional airlines. Regional airlines, or commuter airlines, operate in order to connect smaller towns to larger cities, often in partnership with a major airline. SkyWest Airlines, for example, operates across the United States on behalf of Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. Other regional airlines include PSA, Envoy, Gojet, Horizon Air, and Air Wisconsin, to name a few.
Cargo Airlines: While cargo airlines are often places in their own category, separate from passenger-carrying airlines, they’re still considered airlines. Cargo carriers function without passengers, but still on a regularly scheduled service.

Charter Airlines: Charter airlines are airlines that operate scheduled service outside of airline flying. A baseball team, for example, might hire airline charter services to fly the team to games. Charter can also be in a non-airline category, however, so it’s a good idea to fully understand this term.

Step 7: Attend Airline Career Events

Career events like conferences, conventions, and air shows will help you throughout your journey to becoming an airline pilot. By learning, networking and getting your name out to future employers, you’ll increase your chances of getting the airline job you want while expanding your professional network.

Flight Training & Pilot Education Events

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh (Oshkosh, WI) – The world’s largest airshow and aviation gathering, featuring workshops, forums, and exhibits on flight training, aircraft ownership, and pilot career paths.
Sun ’n Fun Aerospace Expo (Lakeland, FL) – A major aviation event with training seminars, FAA safety briefings, and networking opportunities for aspiring pilots.
NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) – Great for learning about corporate aviation and alternative career paths outside the airlines.
Flight School Association of North America (FSANA) Conference – Focuses on flight training industry trends, school networking, and pilot education advancements.

Airline-Specific Events

Specific airline-focused events are essential for networking with your dream airline. Try out these events:

International Women in Aviation Conference (WAI Conference) – Encourages aspiring pilots, with scholarship opportunities, training seminars, and industry networking.
Redbird Migration Flight Training Conference – Focused on flight training innovation, including simulator advancements and pilot development.
Organization for Black Airline Pilots (OBAP)- Organization dedicated to removing barriers through exposure, skill-building, scholarships, mentorship, and networking.
Rotary to Airline Group (RTAG)- Education, Scholarships, and industry engagement focused on veterans.
Regional events like Northwest Aviation Conference– This event is an opportunity to support the Northwest aviation industry, share ideas, learn new skills, be a safer pilot and create relationships with businesses, aircraft owners, and pilots.

Airline-Specific Job Fairs – Airlines themselves will often host job fairs throughout the years. Follow airlines on social media and sign up for their newsletters to hear about them.

Step 8: Interview Current Airline Pilots

Once you’ve explored the industries and roles that interest you—and perhaps attended a few aviation conferences—the next valuable step is to connect directly with airline pilots.

If you don’t already have a mentor in the field, start by tapping into your network. Your flight school may be able to connect you with alumni who are now flying professionally. Additionally, the professional associations and groups mentioned earlier can help you find a pilot mentor. Most airline pilots are open to sharing their experiences and insights with aspiring aviators. Make an effort to interview airline pilots at each level – from brand-new regional airline pilots to senior major airline pilots who have been in the industry for many years.

To make the most of your conversation, prepare thoughtful questions in advance, such as those below

Pilot Interview Questions

What was your path to becoming an airline pilot?
Where did you complete your training, and how long did it take?
If you could redo your training, what would you do differently?
How did you finance your pilot training?
What are the best and most challenging parts of your job?
What does a typical day in your life look like?
What advice would you give someone just starting out?
How does your career affect your family life?
How well does the airline lifestyle align with your values?
Why did you choose this particular airline?

Speaking directly with someone currently flying in the industry can offer real-world insights and help you make more informed, intentional decisions as you plan your own path toward an airline career.

Step 9: Shadow or Volunteer

Job shadowing and volunteering offer invaluable, hands-on exposure to the aviation world. Through job shadowing, you can observe day-to-day operations in real time—gaining insight into airport logistics, pilot responsibilities, and various sectors across the industry.

Volunteering is another excellent way to get your foot in the door. It helps you connect with the aviation community, build friendships, and find mentorship from experienced pilots. Opportunities are plentiful—whether it’s volunteering at airshows or supporting nonprofit aviation organizations like the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) or Civil Air Patrol (CAP).

Even early in your flight training, you can begin flying for charitable missions. Many organizations rely on volunteer pilots to transport people, animals, or supplies. For example, Pilots ‘N Paws helps relocate rescue animals to new homes, while other nonprofits support recovery efforts from natural disasters or assist in humanitarian and anti-trafficking missions. These experiences not only allow you to build hours and skills but also give back to meaningful causes.

As you gain experience, consider stepping into leadership roles within these organizations. Doing so can expand your professional network and expose you to new areas of aviation you might not encounter in the cockpit.

Job shadowing can also involve spending a day with an airline pilot at a specific airline to observe their routine and responsibilities. While airport access is often limited to employees with security clearance, a trusted mentor can still help you gain valuable behind-the-scenes insight. Similarly, internships—particularly in flight operations—are great opportunities to understand how an aviation company functions from the inside, even if you’re not yet flying for them.

If possible, shadow pilots from different airlines and at different levels. You’ll notice that there are many differences between airlines when viewed from a junior First Officer to a Senior Captain, and also between companies—company culture is very different amongst airlines.

Each of these experiences provides a unique chance to network with professionals, clarify your career goals, and deepen your connection to aviation—helping you grow both personally and professionally.

Step 10: Compare Education & Training Pathways

While the core elements of flight training are the same, the path you take can vary greatly depending on your goals, schedule, and learning style. You might train at a local flight school at your own pace—flying once or twice a week—or you could choose a fast-track academy where you fly daily and move through the curriculum quickly.

Another option is to enroll in an aviation college, where you can earn a degree alongside your flight ratings. This path may also qualify you for the Restricted ATP (Airline Transport Pilot Certificate), allowing you to begin your airline career with fewer flight hours.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—what matters most is finding the path that aligns with your needs and aspirations.

Start by researching the different training options:

Part 61 vs. Part 141 flight schools: Part 61 offers flexibility; Part 141 provides structured, FAA-approved curricula.
Fast-track flight academies: Ideal for full-time students looking to enter the industry quickly.
Collegiate aviation programs: Combine academic degrees with professional pilot training.
Modular paths: You can mix and match training environments to suit your evolving goals.

Your specific career ambitions, lifestyle, and learning preferences will guide which option is best for you.

Additional Skills That Help You Stand Out:

As a future airline pilot, adding unique skills to your resume can set you apart in a competitive field. Consider pursuing advanced or specialty training in:

Tailwheel aircraft
Floatplanes
Multi-engine aircraft
Turbine transition courses
Warbirds or vintage aircraft

These experiences not only expand your flying abilities but also demonstrate adaptability and enthusiasm—qualities airlines value. And while most regional airlines provide ATP-CTP training, having your ATP in hand before applying can be a significant advantage.

Each pathway has its pros and cons—varying in pace, cost, and structure. Whether you choose a local flight school, fast-track academy, or aviation university, the best program is the one that fits your goals, timeline, and learning style.

Phase 3: Chart Your Airline Pilot Path

Once you’ve identified an airline career path that aligns with your goals, you can begin mapping out your next steps. Don’t worry—you don’t need to know exactly which airline you want to fly for right away. But having a general idea can help you start your journey on the right track.

Choosing a specific airline early on allows you to begin studying its company culture, identify any unique training requirements, and explore flight schools or regional airlines that have established partnerships with your target airline. Some flight schools offer tailored training programs that align with an airline’s standards, including guaranteed interview opportunities or direct-entry pathways upon completion.

Similarly, selecting a regional airline to focus on is an important decision. Many regional carriers have partnerships with major airlines, including flow-through agreements that offer a seamless transition to the major carrier. Choosing the right regional airline can be just as strategic as choosing the right flight school.

Step 11: Choose Your Path

Do you dream of flying heavy aircraft on international routes, or would you prefer to stay closer to home with domestic flights? Are you drawn to a formal, structured work environment, or do you thrive in a more relaxed, flexible culture? Once you’ve identified your career goals, the next step is to determine the best path to achieve them.

A great starting point is to research the differences between airlines. Some distinctions are obvious—like aircraft types or route networks—while others are more subtle, such as internal safety practices or company culture.

Key factors to consider include:

Location: For many aspiring pilots, job selection is closely tied to where they want—or need—to live. One effective way to narrow down your list of preferred airlines is to focus on those with bases or hubs in your desired location. This can help align your career goals with your lifestyle and personal priorities.
Aircraft type: If you know for sure that you want to fly the largest aircraft in the world like the A380 or 747, your options will also be limited. Or if you are easily bored and need a new challenge every few years learning a new airplane, you might want to choose an airline that has multiple airframes. Conversely, if you don’t care about flying the same aircraft for the next 30 years, you may have more options.
Schedules: Daily, monthly, and yearly schedules are deciding factors for many pilots. Some schedules might be two weeks on/two weeks off, while others might assign three days on/four days off. Some airlines might even be seasonal, flying most days during the summer and rarely during the winter. In addition, some airlines offer schedule flexibility and ways to change your schedule even after it’s assigned, while others don’t – you fly what is assigned.
Pay structure: Of course, pay is a considerable factor in choosing an airline. Airlines often have different pay rates for First Officers and Captains, and for different aircraft types. A Boeing 747 pilot might have a maximum salary that is much larger than a Boeing 737 pilot, for example.
Time off/vacation/personal leave policies: Consider the airline’s policies on vacation, time off and personal leave. You might not need it now, but a medical leave or a family leave might be in your future. Paternity leave is another example.
Retirement and health benefits: It’s easy to dismiss, especially if you’re young, but your retirement plan and health benefits matter in the long run. Does the company have a disability program if you break your leg, for example, and can’t fly for months? Consider if you have kids (or want them) and you’ll need medical benefits for your family.
Company culture: Company culture is an often-overlooked consideration when choosing which airline to work for. Some airlines have a very strict, predictable, serious culture while others have a fun, lively culture. Culture is very important in a company, and you’ll want to consider choosing an airline that aligns with your values.
Safety culture: Finally, take time to consider an airline’s safety culture. Do they encourage anonymous or non-punitive safety reporting? Are they committed to continual improvement in their safety practices and records? Look for signs that safety is a company-wide priority, not just limited to flight operations. A strong safety culture reflects an airline’s values and long-term stability—and directly impacts your experience as a pilot.

The most effective way to gather this information is by researching airline profiles, exploring pilot forums, and—most importantly—speaking directly with pilots who currently work for the airlines you’re considering. Their firsthand experiences can give you a clear, realistic picture of daily operations and help you make informed decisions about where you envision yourself in the industry.

Step 12: Outline Required Degrees, Certification, & Training

All airline pilots must meet the same baseline technical requirements: a Commercial Pilot Certificate with instrument and multi-engine ratings, a first-class medical certificate, and flight experience relevant to the role. However, some specialized flying jobs may have additional requirements. For example, aerial firefighting may require tailwheel experience, while positions with Customs and Border Protection might require prior field or law enforcement experience before pilot hiring.

While most flying jobs do not require a college degree, some airlines and employers do. The FAA does not mandate a degree to become an airline pilot, but individual companies may require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, particularly when the job market is more competitive. During periods of pilot shortage, some employers may relax this requirement—but that can quickly change during an economic downturn.

To stay competitive and adaptable, it’s best to plan as if a degree will be required. Research the specific requirements for the airline job you’re targeting well in advance, as this can influence your training path, school selection, and long-term strategy.

Step 13: Research & Plan Financial Aspects

Flight training is a significant financial investment, and for many aspiring pilots, the cost can be a major challenge. That’s why it’s important to identify the expected expenses early and develop a clear financial plan. Will you be paying out of pocket, taking out loans, or using a combination of resources? Some flight schools require full payment upfront, while others allow you to pay as you go. Collegiate aviation programs often provide access to federal student loans with lower interest rates, making them an attractive option for many students.

Most pilots finance their training through a mix of cash, loans, and scholarships. However, each training path comes with its own financial pros and cons:

Part 61 programs (typically local, flexible schools) often lack access to dedicated loan programs, and if financing is available, it usually comes with high interest rates.
Part 141 schools may offer more structured programs but still have limited financing options.
Collegiate aviation programs offer the greatest access to scholarships, grants, and lower-interest federal loans, making them one of the most affordable paths in the long run.

In addition to earning your core certificates and ratings—Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Certificate, Multi-Engine Rating, and possibly Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) ratings—you may also consider investing in your Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. While regional airlines often provide ATP training, having this certificate in hand can show you’re prepared and serious about your airline career.

Finally, don’t forget to budget for career preparation expenses, such as:

Professional attire for interviews
Resume and application services
Interview prep courses or workshops

Planning ahead for both your training and career transition costs will put you in a stronger position as you move through the path to becoming a professional pilot.

Step 14: Identify Your Resources

As a prospective airline pilot, you’ll depend heavily on a variety of resources during your flight training adventure. Do you have the books and materials you need? Besides flying supplies like headsets, books, a kneeboard, etc., you’ll want some support groups, too. Is there a study group? An organization or student group where you can find mentorship? Maybe a local organization where you can volunteer and find scholarships. Seek out these valuable resources as soon as you can! There are many resources available that you’ll want to take advantage of:

Training resources, including textbooks and online materials:
- FAA Airplane Flying Handbook
- Federal Aviation Regulations
- Aeronautical Information Manual
- Advisory Circulars
- Specific aircraft type rating manuals for the aircraft you intend to fly
Local pilot groups
Individual pilot mentors
Collegiate job prep courses
Resume and application review programs
Airline pilot interview prep courses
Conferences and Job Fairs
Local and national organizations

Step 15: Map Your Timeline

Becoming an airline pilot is a multi-year process. Depending on your individual path, it could take as little as three years or as many as five or more years. This time frame will depend on whether you choose a Part 61 program or a Part 141 program, a fast-track program or a collegiate university program, and can even be dependant on local weather, instructor availability, and aircraft availability, along with your personal dedication and availability to flight training.

Phase 4: Flight Training, Education, & Credentialing

Becoming a professional pilot involves more than just learning to fly—it requires a structured progression through training, education, and credentialing. From your first medical exam to earning your Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, each step plays a critical role in preparing you for a successful aviation career.

Whether you choose a local flight school, a collegiate program, or a fast-track academy, understanding the requirements and options at each stage will help you make informed decisions and stay on track. The following steps outline the essential milestones in flight training and certification, offering a clear roadmap from student pilot to airline-ready professional.

Step 16: Obtain Medical & Student Pilot Certificates

The first step toward becoming an airline pilot is to get an aviation medical certificate. These are available in First-, Second-, and Third-Class options.

The FAA requires private pilots to have a third-class medical certificate, while commercial pilots are required to have a second-class, and airline pilots must have a first-class medical certificate. Some employers will also require a higher-class medical certificate than the FAA requires. There is a list of local FAA medical examiners near you on the FAA website.

A minimum of a third-class medical certificate is required to solo an airplane, but you can begin flight training without one. If the plan is to become a commercial pilot, you might start with a third-class medical during your pilot training and move up to a second-class once you’re ready to get a commercial pilot job. Alternatively, some pilots want to ensure they can pass a second-class medical, so they obtain one sooner rather than later.

Next, you’ll apply for a student pilot certificate through an FAA application online and continue through private pilot training.

After private pilot training comes an instrument rating, in which you’ll learn to fly the airplane solely with reference to instruments (i.e., in the clouds). Then, students typically obtain a commercial pilot certificate and/or a multi-engine certificate, and the order of those varies depending on the flight training program.

Finally, at the culmination of training will be the Airline Transport Pilot Certificate. Some people obtain this on their own while others earn it while employed at their first airline.

Step 17: Apply to a Reputable Flight School

Once you’ve found a flight school you want to train at, you’ll want to ask about application requirements. Local flight schools may just have a form to fill out and might assign you an instructor to help you complete the FAA student pilot application. Collegiate flight schools will have a college application process and will assign you an admissions counselor to assist with the application process.

In order to find a flight school that suits your needs, you’ll want to make sure you ask these questions:

Do you offer Part 61 or Part 141 training?
How soon will I be assigned an instructor?
What types of aircraft do you fly? Does the school offer advanced instruction?
Do the aircraft have advanced avionics?
What certificates can a student earn here?
How often will I have the opportunity to fly?
Are there any continuity programs in place to ensure student progression if an instructor leaves? What about if aircraft are down for maintenance?
What is the cost breakdown? Does the rate include fuel (wet rate) or do I fuel it up when I use the aircraft (dry rate)?
How does my instructor get paid? By the hour or just when the aircraft is operating?
Does the student get charged for ground instruction?
Do you offer financing?
How often are the aircraft down for maintenance and what is the procedure for canceled/rescheduled flights if an aircraft needs maintenance?

Step 18: Complete Ground School

The ground school portion of the airline pilot certificate involves a knowledge exam.

To take the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) written exam, you’ll need to first complete an ATP/CTP course, an FAA-approved Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training Program, which includes simulator training in a full-flight simulator. While this course used to be required as a prerequisite for an airline pilot job, it’s now most often conducted after a job offer is extended as part of initial employment at a regional airline.

Step 19: Build Flight Hours

Start flying! You’ll build most of the required flight hours through instructional flights with your instructor that are part of a syllabus. But once you have a commercial pilot certificate, you are free to build all the time you need – and you’ll need to! At this stage, many pilots are trying to gain hours quickly, especially cross-country hours, so expect long hours of flying. You can build this time in a variety of ways:

Fly for fun! A lot of time-building is completed through fun flights. Take your family and friends flying, pick a new far-away airport to explore, or just go practice your next challenge. Before you earn your commercial pilot certificate, you’ll likely be flying for no reason at all- just to build your time.
Find a time-building buddy to split costs. You can both log the time, although only one of you can log Pilot in Command time in most cases.
Volunteer your time with a charity to gain hours and experience. Charities often use private and commercial pilots to complete their missions, whether it’s flying animals to their new homes, flying patients to hospitals, or completing search and rescue missions with local authorities.
Become a flight instructor: Once you’ve earned your commercial pilot certificate, the obvious next step is the Certified Flight Instructor certificate (CFI), which allows you to earn an income while you build time and experience.

Step 20: Earn Required Certifications & Education

Your learning doesn’t end after you earn your airline pilot certificate! If you’re on a career path, you’ll likely go on to get a type rating for a specific aircraft. Most of the time, this occurs once you’re employed at an airline, but not always. Some companies will require a type rating to apply for the job.

Even after you start working as an airline pilot, you’re never done learning.

Aviation is a constantly evolving field, and professional pilots are expected to stay current with new regulations, technologies, aircraft systems, and procedures.

Ongoing training, recurrent check rides, simulator sessions, and aircraft type ratings are all part of the process to succeeding as an airline pilot. Airline pilots typically have annual check rides, along with other professional training like CRM (Crew Resource Management) training and leadership training.

Whether you’re flying for a regional airline or a large worldwide airline, continuous education is essential to ensure safety, maintain proficiency, and open doors to new opportunities in the aviation world.

Phase 5: Career Development & Advancement

Career development in aviation doesn’t stop after earning your certificates and ratings—it truly begins once you start pursuing professional opportunities.

The transition from training to employment marks a critical shift where your focus turns to job applications, interviews, networking, and long-term career planning. Building a successful career as an airline pilot involves more than technical skill; it also requires strategic thinking, strong professional relationships, and continuous growth. The following steps will guide you through this next phase—helping you launch your career, connect with the right people, and plan for a future filled with opportunities in aviation.

Step 21: Start the Application Process

Once you’ve obtained your commercial pilot certificate and the necessary hours, it’s time to apply for jobs! The best way to find jobs is to network locally and ask around or search online job postings. Pilot jobs are often posted a few times per year, depending on the hiring pace and company. Airline pilot jobs can be on cycles, where job openings occur twice per year, or in high-demand times, the application openings can be revolving continuously.

Airline pilot job applications are extensive and require a large amount of effort, so it’s wise to start a job portfolio during training with all the necessary documents and information so that you’re ready when the time comes.

Starting the application process for an airline pilot job is a big step toward achieving your pilot career goal. It’s important to pay attention to every detail at this step. Every company has its own unique application process. Some may only require a resume and cover letter, while others involve multi-step screening, detailed paperwork, and strict instructions. It’s essential to research each company carefully, not only to follow their application process correctly but also to understand their operational culture.

When possible, connect with current employees to get insights into the company’s expectations and hiring etiquette. Identifying the company’s core values and mission, along with the specific responsibilities of the role, will allow you to tailor your application materials to align with what the organization is truly looking for.

Step 22: Prepare for Airline Interviews

You’ve landed a pilot interview—congratulations! So, what’s next? If you’ve done your research, you already know that preparing for a pilot interview isn’t something you start the night before. Airline interviews are rarely casual conversations; they are typically part of a structured, multi-week hiring process. Here’s how to be fully prepared and put your best foot forward:

Know the Company Inside and Out

Study the airline’s history, leadership, mission, vision, and culture. Familiarize yourself with its fleet, route structure, and company values. The more you know, the better you’ll be able to tailor your responses and show genuine interest in becoming part of their team.

Organize Your Documents

Your logbook, pilot certificates, medical certificate, and any endorsements or checkride paperwork should be in perfect order. Double-check your logbook math—mistakes here can create doubt during your interview. Be prepared to provide background check forms and PRIA (Pilot Records Improvement Act) documentation, which allows airlines to review your FAA training records.

Practice Interview Questions

Pilot interviews often include behavioral, technical, and HR-based questions. Research common interview questions online, but for the most up-to-date insight, talk to pilots who have recently gone through the process. Their firsthand feedback can help you anticipate both content and format.

Consider Professional Interview Coaching

Aviation-specific interview prep companies offer targeted coaching tailored to each airline’s hiring expectations. While these services can be expensive, many pilots find them worthwhile for building confidence and learning how to present themselves effectively. If you can afford it, this may be a strong investment.

Research the Aircraft and Operations

Be familiar with the aircraft you might fly. If it’s a type you’ve flown before, you’ll be expected to know it well. If it’s a new aircraft, showing that you’ve done basic research will demonstrate initiative and enthusiasm for the role.

Prepare Your Interview Attire in Advance

Buy a suit. Always get the suit. Don’t wait until the last minute to find one—it may need tailoring. Also, break in your dress shoes ahead of time. Some interview days involve walking through airport terminals or ramp areas, and you don’t want sore feet distracting you from your performance.

Take Advantage of Mock Interviews

Many flight schools, training programs, and university career centers offer mock interviews for free. Use these opportunities to practice answering questions and receive feedback in a low-pressure setting. It’s a great way to refine your delivery and boost confidence.

Prepare Thoughtful Questions to Ask

Remember, you’re interviewing the airline, too. Come prepared with questions that help you assess whether the company aligns with your values and lifestyle. Asking insightful questions also shows interest, professionalism, and a long-term mindset.

A pilot interview is an opportunity to showcase your technical skill, professionalism, and readiness to join a high-performing team. With the right preparation, you can walk in confident and leave a lasting impression.

Step 23: Utilize Your Fight School Resources

New commercial pilots have access to a wide range of career resources to support their job search and professional development. Whether you’re training through a university program or at a Part 61 flight school, there are tools and networks available—you just need to know where to look.

Colleges and universities often provide comprehensive career services. If you’re enrolled in a collegiate aviation program, take full advantage of these offerings:

Career placement support: Many schools have established relationships with aviation employers. These partnerships can create hiring pipelines for certified flight instructor (CFI) roles, charter jobs, or regional airline positions.
Career fairs and networking events: Schools frequently host job fairs, employer panels, and guest speaker events to connect students with the aviation industry.
Pilot-specific job boards and alumni networks: Some programs maintain exclusive job boards for aviation students and graduates. A strong alumni network can also be a valuable resource, offering job leads, mentorship, and referrals.
Resume and interview workshops: Aviation career centers often offer tailored support in resume writing, interview preparation, and human resources coaching for pilot candidates.

If you’re training at a Part 61 flight school, you may need to be more proactive, but there are still plenty of helpful resources available:

Instructor and staff support: Instructors and flight school staff can provide guidance, write letters of recommendation, and connect you with local aviation employers.
Community connections: Local flying clubs, airports, and nonprofit organizations may have job leads or be aware of nearby opportunities.
Online tools and career events: Use industry-specific job boards, airline career coaches, and aviation hiring conferences to stay informed and expand your network.

Whether you’re in a structured collegiate program or a more flexible training environment, being proactive with available resources can help you clarify your goals, build professional connections, and find the right opportunities to launch your flying career. Start early, stay engaged, and take full advantage of every support system available to you.

Step 24: Network with Airline Team Members

If there’s a secret to landing a pilot job, it’s networking. The aviation industry is small, and if you conduct yourself professionally, are pleasant to work with, and treat people well, you’ll benefit from human-to-human networking.

This happens at coffee shops, while volunteering, at conferences, career fairs, and at your flight school. Pilots working in the industry are happy to mentor you and help you if you’re willing to take advantage of your networking contacts and maintain a positive relationship with people.

Relationship building is crucial for long-term career advancement, so make networking a priority both during your training and after. Stay in touch with everyone you meet and maintain a professional demeanor at all times.

Aviation Organizations to Consider for Networking Opportunities:

Finally, airline pilots specifically benefit from networking with other airline professionals to achieve their goals. This is often done at conferences and job fairs:

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh (Oshkosh, WI) – The world’s largest airshow and aviation gathering, featuring workshops, forums, and exhibits on flight training, aircraft ownership, and pilot career paths.
Sun ’n Fun Aerospace Expo (Lakeland, FL) – A major aviation event with training seminars, FAA safety briefings, and networking opportunities for aspiring pilots.
NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) – Great for learning about corporate aviation and alternative career paths outside the airlines.
Flight School Association of North America (FSANA) Conference – Focuses on flight training industry trends, school networking, and pilot education advancements.
International Women in Aviation Conference (WAI Conference) – Encourages aspiring pilots, with scholarship opportunities, training seminars, and industry networking.
Redbird Migration Flight Training Conference – Focused on flight training innovation, including simulator advancements and pilot development.
Organization for Black Airline Pilots (OBAP)- Organization dedicated to removing barriers through exposure, skill-building, scholarships, mentorship, and networking.
Rotary to Airline Group (RTAG)- Education, Scholarships, and industry engagement focused on veterans.
Regional events like Northwest Aviation Conference– This event is an opportunity to support the Northwest aviation industry, share ideas, learn new skills, be a safer pilot and create relationships with businesses, aircraft owners, and pilots.
Airline-Specific Job Fairs – Airlines themselves will often host job fairs throughout the years. Follow airlines on social media and sign up for their newsletters to hear about them.

Step 25: Work toward the long-term

Your first airline pilot job is just the beginning. Aviation is a dynamic, ever-evolving journey, so it’s important to keep both your short- and long-term goals in focus—and revisit them regularly.

Maybe your initial goal was to become a regional airline pilot and you’ve achieved it. Great! Now it’s time to reassess. What’s next on the horizon? Are you aiming for a larger aircraft or a position with a bigger company? Working toward becoming an instructor or check airman at the airline? Considering leadership training, a graduate degree, or expanding your experience with new aircraft types? Whatever your next step looks like, take time to reflect, set new goals, and chart your path forward.

By now, you know that aviation is a marathon—not a sprint. Keep pushing, stay focused, and enjoy the flights!

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