How to Become a Pilot: A Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a pilot is more achievable than most people think, but it helps to see the whole path laid out before you start. Whether you dream of flying for fun or for a living, here is the route from complete beginner to licensed pilot.
Step 1: Take a trial lesson
Before spending serious money, book a trial flight at a local flying school. You will handle the controls with an instructor and get a real feel for whether flying is for you. It is the single best way to test your enthusiasm.
Step 2: Get your medical
You will need an aviation medical certificate from an approved examiner. A Class 2 medical covers private flying; a Class 1 (stricter) is required for commercial pilots. It is wise to pass the relevant medical early, before committing to training, so there are no surprises.
Step 3: Choose your licence
Most people start with a Private Pilot Licence (PPL), which lets you fly light aircraft for pleasure. If you want a career, you will ultimately aim for a Commercial Pilot Licence and beyond. Our guide to PPL vs CPL vs ATPL explains the differences in detail.
Step 4: Ground school and exams
Flying is only half the training. You will study theory subjects such as air law, meteorology, navigation, human performance and aircraft technical knowledge, then sit written exams. Understanding aviation weather and the airspace system is a big part of this.
Step 5: Flight training
With an instructor you will learn to take off, climb, turn, descend and land, then progress to solo flight, navigation cross-countries and emergency handling. A PPL typically requires a minimum of around 45 hours, though most students take a little more.
Step 6: The skills test
Finally you fly a practical skills test with an examiner. Pass it, and you are a licensed pilot — free to take friends and family flying.
Going professional
To fly for an airline you continue with hour-building, a Commercial Pilot Licence, an Instrument Rating, a Multi-Engine Rating and ultimately the Airline Transport Pilot Licence. Many pilots also work as instructors to build experience along the way.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a pilot?
A PPL can be done in a few months of regular flying. A full airline-ready qualification typically takes 18 months to 2 years via an integrated course, or longer part-time.
Do I need a degree to be a pilot?
No. Airlines care about your licences, ratings, experience and aptitude, not a university degree.
Ready to learn more? Visit the Becoming a Pilot hub.