How to Become an Airline Pilot

Your step-by-step guide to flying high, no matter where you start.

Dreaming of soaring above the clouds, wearing that crisp uniform, and landing planes in cities around the world? Becoming an airline pilot is one of the most exciting and rewarding careers out there - but it’s also one of the most structured and technical paths.

The good news? Whether you’re in the UK, USA, Australia, or New Zealand, there are clear routes you can take. Here’s what you need to know.

What Does an Airline Pilot Do?

Airline pilots operate commercial aircraft, ensuring passengers (or cargo) travel safely and efficiently. It’s a role that requires:

• Quick decision-making

• Strong technical skills

• Mental and physical stamina

• Teamwork, leadership, and communication

Most airline pilots start as First Officers (co-pilots) and work their way up to Captain after several years of experience.

How to Become a Pilot in the UK

Step-by-Step Route:

Minimum Entry Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old

• GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science (A-Levels are a bonus)

• Good physical and mental health (you’ll need a Class 1 medical certificate)

Choose Your Training Path

Integrated ATPL (Full-time course at a flight school, includes all training):

Takes ~18-24 months

Cost: £80,000–£120,000

Modular ATPL (Pay-as-you-go style training, more flexible):

Can take 2–5 years depending on pace

Cost: £50,000–£90,000

Pass the ATPL Theory Exams (14 subjects including navigation, meteorology, and flight planning)

Build Flying Hours

You’ll need a minimum of 200 hours to apply for an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence)

Get a Type Rating

Additional training for specific aircraft (often sponsored by the airline once you’re hired)

Top UK Flight Schools:

• CAE Oxford

• L3Harris Airline Academy

• Leading Edge Aviation

• FTA Global

How to Become a Pilot in the USA

Step-by-Step Route:

Start with a Private Pilot License (PPL)

Must be 17+ and pass an FAA medical exam

Progress to Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Includes 250+ hours of flight time

FAA written and practical exams

Become a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) (optional)

Many pilots build hours this way to reach the 1,500 flight hours required for major airlines

Get Your Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

Required for flying as a captain or co-pilot in an airline

Must be at least 23 years old with 1,500 hours of flight time

Cost in the USA:

Total cost: $70,000–$100,000

Flight school programs, universities with aviation degrees, and airline cadet programs are all available

Top US Flight Schools:

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

• ATP Flight School

• CAE USA

• Purdue University (Aviation)

How to Become a Pilot in Australia & New Zealand

Step-by-Step Route:

Start with a Recreational or Private Pilot License (RPL/PPL)

Must be 16+ (17+ for PPL), good health, and pass an aviation medical

Progress to Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

Requires 150+ flying hours

Includes theory exams and flight test

Can be done through integrated training or modular courses

Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) Theory

Sit ATPL exams early and complete flight hours later

Gain Experience and Build Hours

Flight instruction, charter flying, or regional work

Apply for Airline Roles

Often start as a First Officer on smaller routes and work up

Cost in Australia/NZ:

$80,000–$130,000 AUD/NZD

Government loans (like HECS) may be available for approved uni programs

✈️ Top Schools in Australia & NZ:

• Basair Aviation College

• UNSW Aviation

• Massey University (NZ)

• CAE Melbourne

• Airways Aviation

Do I Need a University Degree?

In most countries, a degree is not essential - but it can be useful for:

Applying to airline cadet programs

Standing out in competitive job markets

Career progression into aviation management or training roles

Popular degrees include:

Aviation Management

Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor of Aviation (available in AUS/NZ)

Top Tips for Aspiring Pilots

✅ Research thoroughly – Visit flight schools, compare courses, talk to current students.

✅ Budget smartly – Training is expensive, so look into finance, loans, and scholarships.

✅ Stay fit and healthy – Medical requirements are strict, especially for commercial flying.

✅ Prepare mentally – The workload is intense, especially during ground school.

✅ Network early – LinkedIn, forums, open days, and expos are great for meeting industry professionals.

Career Outlook: What Happens After Training?

After qualifying, most pilots will:

Start in regional or charter airlines

Apply for airline cadet schemes or recruitment drives

Gradually progress to First Officer at a major airline, then Captain

Consider roles in flight training, airline management, or even aviation safety

Final Thoughts

Country

Cost (approx)

Flight Hours Needed

Route Type

UK

£80k–£120k

200+

Integrated or Modular

USA

$70k–$100k

1,500

Modular + CFI

Australia/NZ

$80k–$130k AUD/NZD

150+ (CPL), then more

Modular or Integrated

Becoming an airline pilot takes commitment, funding, and a lot of training - but for those who love flying and adventure, it’s one of the most rewarding careers out there.