How to Become a Pilot: Requirements, Training, Salary, Flight Hours and Complete Career Guide

How Do You Become a Pilot?

Becoming a professional pilot in the United States typically requires progressing through several Federal Aviation Administration certificates and ratings while accumulating significant flight experience.

A common career path looks like this:

1. Determine whether professional aviation is right for you.
2. Obtain the appropriate FAA medical certificate.
3. Begin flight training.
4. Obtain a Student Pilot Certificate.
5. Earn a Private Pilot Certificate.
6. Add an Instrument Rating.
7. Earn a Commercial Pilot Certificate.
8. Add a Multi-Engine Rating if pursuing airline or multi-engine flying.
9. Often earn a Certified Flight Instructor certificate.
10. Build substantial flight experience.
11. Complete Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training when applicable.
12. Earn an Airline Transport Pilot, or ATP, certificate or qualifying Restricted ATP.
13. Complete airline-specific aircraft and company training.
14. Begin as a First Officer and eventually become eligible to upgrade to Captain.

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours for a standard private airplane pilot certificate under Part 61, although the FAA says the average person actually completes the private pilot requirements in approximately 75 hours.

For a Commercial Pilot Certificate, the FAA generally requires 250 total flight hours under the standard Part 61 pathway. That does not mean someone with 250 hours is ready to become an airline pilot. The FAA notes that airlines commonly require significantly more experience.

For most airline pilots working for scheduled U.S. airlines under Part 121, the major milestone is the Airline Transport Pilot certificate.

The standard ATP pathway generally requires:

1,500 hours of total flight time

There are qualifying Restricted ATP pathways that can reduce the total-hour requirement for certain military pilots and graduates of FAA-authorized aviation degree programs.

The career can be financially attractive. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that airline pilots, copilots and flight engineers earned a median annual wage of $232,140 in May 2025, while commercial pilots earned a median of $123,220.

But salary is only part of the decision.

Before spending tens of thousands of dollars on flight training, ask a more fundamental question:

Would you actually enjoy being a professional pilot?

Professional flying involves much more than sitting behind the controls of an airplane.

Pilots must:

• follow highly structured procedures;
• make precise decisions;
• continuously monitor aircraft systems;
• communicate clearly;
• deal with weather;
• manage fatigue;
• spend nights away from home;
• maintain recurrent training;
• pass medical examinations;
• accept substantial responsibility;
• work with the same small crew for extended periods;
• and remain calm when something unexpected happens.

O*NET's updated 2026 profile shows just how important precision is. 84% of surveyed airline pilots rated being exact or accurate as extremely important, and all remaining respondents rated it very important.

Find out how well being a pilot matches you before investing in training.

Take the Free MAPP Assessment and use your 10 Free Career Matches to see how Pilot and related aviation careers align with your motivations, interests, temperament and preferred way of working.

Your career matching can help you explore:

• how closely Pilot matches you;
• why it matches or does not match;
• what parts of flying you may enjoy;
• what parts you may dislike;
• how to become a pilot;
• education requirements;
• salary information;
• related careers;
• educational pathways; and
• available jobs.

Take the Free MAPP Assessment‍

Pilot Career Snapshot

BLS projects overall employment of airline and commercial pilots to grow 7% between 2025 and 2035, compared with 3% for all occupations. About 16,400 openings per year are projected across the combined occupations.

What Does a Pilot Actually Do?

Professional pilots are responsible for the safe operation of aircraft carrying:

• passengers;
• cargo;
• medical teams;
• business executives;
• charter customers;
• tourists;
• emergency personnel;
• or specialized equipment.

BLS identifies typical pilot duties including:

• inspecting the aircraft;
• verifying weight and balance;
• ensuring adequate fuel;
• reviewing weather;
• preparing flight plans;
• communicating with air traffic control;
• operating the aircraft during takeoff, cruise and landing;
• monitoring engines and aircraft systems;
• responding to changing weather;
• responding to emergencies;
• navigating with instruments and visual references;
• and completing records after landing.

O*NET similarly identifies instrument flying, aircraft operation, crew coordination, emergency response, preflight inspection, communications with air traffic control and continuous aircraft-system monitoring as core airline pilot responsibilities.

Different Types of Pilots

When someone searches for "how to become a pilot," it is important to distinguish among very different careers.

Airline Pilot

Airline pilots fly scheduled passenger or cargo aircraft.

A flight deck usually includes:

Captain

The captain is the Pilot in Command and has ultimate responsibility for the aircraft.

First Officer

The First Officer, often called the copilot, shares flying duties and assists the Captain.

Both pilots may alternate who physically flies individual flight segments.

For U.S. Part 121 airline operations, pilots must generally hold the appropriate ATP or Restricted ATP qualifications.

Commercial Pilot

A Commercial Pilot Certificate allows a properly qualified pilot to be compensated for certain flying activities subject to FAA regulations.

Commercial pilots can work in areas including:

• charter aviation;
• corporate aviation;
• sightseeing;
• aerial photography;
• aerial surveying;
• agricultural aviation;
• firefighting;
• medical transport;
• flight instruction;
• pipeline patrol;
• powerline inspection;
• and other specialized operations.

BLS notes that commercial pilots commonly perform unscheduled operations such as charter flights, aerial tours and agricultural aviation.

Corporate Pilot

Corporate pilots transport executives, employees or clients for companies or private aircraft owners.

They may fly:

• business jets;
• turboprops;
• or other corporate aircraft.

A corporate pilot's responsibilities may extend beyond flying to:

• trip planning;
• passenger coordination;
• aircraft scheduling;
• fuel arrangements;
• and working with maintenance providers.

Charter Pilot

Charter pilots work for companies providing flights on demand rather than published airline schedules.

Destinations can vary significantly.

One trip might involve a nearby business airport.

The next might involve an international destination.

Cargo Pilot

Cargo pilots transport freight rather than passengers.

Major cargo airlines operate sophisticated fleets and can offer compensation comparable with major passenger carriers.

BLS reported a 2025 median annual wage of $334,930 for airline pilots working in couriers and express delivery services.

Flight Instructor

Certified Flight Instructors teach student pilots.

Flight instruction is one of the most common ways professional pilots accumulate the flight experience required to pursue airline jobs.

BLS specifically notes that many commercial pilots obtain Flight Instructor Certificates to build experience more quickly and at less personal expense.

Helicopter Pilot

Helicopter pilots may work in:

• emergency medical services;
• law enforcement;
• tourism;
• news gathering;
• construction;
• offshore transportation;
• firefighting;
• corporate transportation;
• search and rescue;
• military aviation;
• and utility work.

The certification pathway differs somewhat from fixed-wing aviation.

Agricultural Pilot

Agricultural pilots operate aircraft at low altitude for applications such as crop treatment.

BLS notes that these pilots may operate from unimproved airfields and encounter hazards including powerlines and chemical exposure.

Air Ambulance Pilot

These pilots transport:

• patients;
• physicians;
• nurses;
• transplant teams;
• and medical equipment.

Safety, schedule reliability and decision making in difficult operating environments can be critical.

Wildfire and Aerial Firefighting Pilot

Specialized pilots may operate aircraft involved in:

• dropping water;
• deploying fire retardant;
• transporting firefighting personnel;
• reconnaissance;
• and coordinating wildfire operations.

This is highly specialized flying that typically requires significant prior aviation experience.

A Day in the Life of an Airline Pilot

The public sees the part where pilots walk through the airport, enter the cockpit and fly the airplane.

The real workday begins well before takeoff.

BLS reports that airline pilots average about 75 flight hours each month, plus approximately 150 additional monthly hours completing nonflying responsibilities such as planning flights and checking weather.

A typical trip might look like this.

5:15 AM: Wake Up at the Hotel

The pilot is on the second day of a three-day trip.

Because yesterday's final flight ended in another city, the crew slept at an airline-provided hotel.

The first departure today is early.

The pilot checks:

• schedule updates;
• weather;
• airport conditions;
• flight delays;
• and company notifications.

6:00 AM: Transportation to the Airport

Airline transportation takes the crew from the hotel to the airport.

Pilots may spend several nights each week away from home depending on schedule and seniority.

BLS notes that airlines generally provide hotel rooms, airport transportation and meal allowances when pilots are traveling.

6:20 AM: Review the Flight

The Captain and First Officer review information including:

• departure airport;
• destination;
• alternate airports;
• weather;
• winds;
• route;
• fuel requirements;
• aircraft status;
• notices to air missions;
• runway conditions;
• passenger or cargo load;
• and possible operational concerns.

Professional aviation involves extensive preparation.

6:45 AM: Aircraft Inspection

The pilots review the aircraft's condition.

Depending on airline procedures, this can include an exterior walk-around and cockpit preparation.

They confirm:

• aircraft systems;
• fuel;
• navigation setup;
• weight and balance;
• required documentation;
• maintenance status;
• and performance calculations.

BLS identifies checking aircraft condition, fuel and weight as core pilot responsibilities.

7:20 AM: Boarding

Passengers begin boarding.

The pilots continue preparing the cockpit.

They communicate with:

• dispatch;
• flight attendants;
• ground personnel;
• and air traffic control.

A delay, maintenance discrepancy or weather problem may require the original plan to change.

7:55 AM: Pushback and Taxi

After receiving clearance, the aircraft leaves the gate and taxis toward the runway.

The pilots follow standardized checklists and company operating procedures.

One pilot may be designated Pilot Flying.

The other becomes Pilot Monitoring.

Their responsibilities are coordinated but distinct.

8:10 AM: Takeoff

Takeoff is one of the highest-workload phases of flight.

Both pilots monitor:

• airspeed;
• engine performance;
• navigation;
• aircraft configuration;
• traffic;
• weather;
• and air traffic control instructions.

O*NET rates teamwork during takeoffs and landings as a core airline pilot task.

8:30 AM: Cruise

Once the aircraft reaches cruise altitude, workload changes.

Pilots continuously monitor:

• weather;
• fuel;
• route;
• navigation;
• engines;
• aircraft systems;
• traffic;
• and communications.

Modern aircraft are highly automated.

But automation does not eliminate the pilot.

The pilot's responsibility shifts partly toward managing, verifying and supervising sophisticated systems.

9:35 AM: Weather Develops Ahead

A line of thunderstorms is forming along the planned route.

The pilots:

• review weather radar;
• discuss options;
• contact air traffic control;
• request a deviation;
• consider fuel implications;
• and determine whether the original arrival plan remains appropriate.

This illustrates why professional aviation is fundamentally a decision-making profession.

The airplane may fly automatically for portions of the trip.

Responsibility does not.

10:15 AM: Approach and Landing

Workload increases again.

The crew reviews:

• airport weather;
• landing runway;
• approach procedure;
• aircraft configuration;
• landing performance;
• missed-approach procedure;
• and possible hazards.

The aircraft lands and taxis to the gate.

10:40 AM: Turnaround

The pilots may have only a limited period before the next flight.

During the turnaround they may:

• review the next flight release;
• check weather;
• verify fuel;
• discuss maintenance issues;
• coordinate with the new cabin crew;
• eat;
• and prepare the aircraft.

11:30 AM: Second Flight

The crew flies to another city.

The weather is good.

Operations are routine.

A professional pilot's goal is not excitement.

It is to make complex operations feel routine because they have been planned, standardized and executed correctly.

2:00 PM: Third Flight

The next flight experiences an air traffic control delay.

The crew needs to monitor:

• duty time;
• fuel;
• weather;
• passenger connections;
• and arrival restrictions.

Airline flying involves operational decisions even when the aircraft is still parked.

5:30 PM: Final Landing

The crew completes the day's final flight.

After parking, the pilots complete:

• aircraft records;
• maintenance reports if needed;
• company reporting;
• and postflight responsibilities.

6:15 PM: Hotel

The airline provides transportation to another hotel.

The pilots may have dinner and prepare for the next day's schedule.

Tomorrow could begin before sunrise again.

What Is Airline Pilot Life Really Like?

Airline careers can offer high compensation and unusual amounts of time off.

They can also involve:

• early mornings;
• late nights;
• weekends;
• holidays;
• multiple time zones;
• overnight hotels;
• jet lag;
• commuting;
• reserve assignments;
• schedule changes;
• and significant time away from family.

BLS notes that flight assignments and preferred schedules are strongly influenced by seniority. Pilots with greater seniority generally receive better access to desirable routes and schedules.

That means the lifestyle of a pilot with 15 years of seniority can look very different from that of a newly hired First Officer.

Step by Step: How to Become a Professional Pilot

There are multiple routes.

The following is one of the most common civilian paths toward an airline career.

Step 1: Decide Whether Professional Aviation Fits You

Before committing large amounts of money to training, learn about the actual career.

Professional flying demands:

• precision;
• discipline;
• responsibility;
• procedural compliance;
• situational awareness;
• communication;
• judgment;
• and comfort with irregular schedules.

A person can love airplanes and dislike being a professional pilot.

Those are not the same thing.

Start with career fit.

Take the Free MAPP Assessment before choosing flight school.

Use your 10 Free Career Matches to explore whether Pilot fits your motivations and what aspects of the profession you might enjoy or dislike.

Take the Free MAPP Assessment

Step 2: Consider Getting an FAA Medical Certificate Early

This step is especially important for someone pursuing aviation professionally.

FAA medical certificates are divided into three principal classes:

First Class

Designed for Airline Transport Pilot privileges.

Second Class

Used for Commercial Pilot privileges.

Third Class

Used for private and recreational pilot privileges.

A student pilot generally must have at least a Third-Class medical before the first solo flight, except for certain operations such as gliders and balloons.

If your goal is becoming an airline pilot, it may make sense to determine early whether you can qualify for the medical certification needed for your intended career rather than investing heavily in training first.

FAA medical applications are completed through MedXPress and the examination is conducted by an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner.

Step 3: Choose a Flight School

You can generally train through either:

Part 61 Training

Often conducted through:

• independent flight instructors;
• smaller flight schools;
• Fixed Base Operators;
• and local airports.

Part 61 can offer substantial scheduling flexibility.

Part 141 Training

Conducted through FAA-approved schools operating under an approved training curriculum.

Part 141 programs may be associated with:

• aviation academies;
• colleges;
• or universities.

FAA notes that certain certificates can sometimes be earned with lower minimum flight-hour thresholds through approved Part 141 programs, although many students need additional time to reach proficiency regardless of the regulatory minimum.

The FAA specifically recommends evaluating training quality rather than choosing a school based solely on price.

Step 4: Obtain a Student Pilot Certificate

The Student Pilot Certificate allows you to progress toward solo flight.

The FAA states that the minimum age for a Student Pilot Certificate for airplane flying is generally 16.

You apply through the FAA's Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application system, commonly called IACRA, or through another authorized process.

You can begin taking flying lessons before receiving the certificate.

You need the appropriate certificate and endorsements before solo flight.

Step 5: Complete Ground School

Ground training teaches the knowledge required to fly safely.

Subjects include:

• aerodynamics;
• aircraft systems;
• weather;
• navigation;
• FAA regulations;
• airport operations;
• radio communication;
• flight planning;
• weight and balance;
• aircraft performance;
• emergency procedures;
• and human factors.

You must pass the applicable FAA knowledge examination.

Step 6: Learn to Fly

Flight training begins with basic aircraft control.

You learn:

• taxiing;
• takeoffs;
• climbs;
• turns;
• descents;
• landings;
• stalls;
• emergency procedures;
• navigation;
• radio communications;
• airport operations;
• and decision making.

Eventually, your instructor may authorize you to fly solo.

Step 7: Earn Your Private Pilot Certificate

You must be at least 17 years old for the standard airplane Private Pilot Certificate.

Under the standard Part 61 airplane route, the FAA requires at least:

40 hours of flight time

including specified categories of:

• instructor training;
• solo flight;
• cross-country flight;
• night flight;
• and instrument training.

However, the FAA reports that the average private pilot applicant completes approximately:

75 hours

before obtaining the certificate.

Candidates must pass:

• a knowledge examination;
• oral examination;
• and practical flight examination, commonly known as the checkride.

Step 8: Earn an Instrument Rating

The Instrument Rating teaches pilots to operate primarily by reference to aircraft instruments.

This is essential for professional aviation.

Instrument training includes:

• instrument approaches;
• holding;
• navigation;
• weather interpretation;
• air traffic control procedures;
• instrument departures;
• instrument arrivals;
• and flying when outside visual references are limited.

BLS reports that pilots may qualify for the rating with at least 40 hours of instrument flight experience and 50 hours of cross-country Pilot-in-Command time, along with other applicable regulatory requirements.

Step 9: Earn a Commercial Pilot Certificate

The Commercial Pilot Certificate is a major professional milestone.

The FAA states that the standard Part 61 commercial airplane pathway generally requires:

250 total flight hours

along with specific categories of flight experience and completion of knowledge and practical examinations.

The applicant must also meet the medical requirements applicable to exercising commercial privileges.

A Commercial Pilot Certificate does not mean you can immediately become an airline First Officer.

It means you have reached the certification level necessary for many types of compensated flying.

Step 10: Add a Multi-Engine Rating

Airlines operate multi-engine aircraft.

Pilots pursuing airline careers typically add multi-engine privileges to their certificates.

Training focuses on:

• operating multi-engine aircraft;
• performance;
• systems;
• asymmetric thrust;
• engine failure;
• emergency procedures;
• and multi-engine decision making.

Step 11: Consider Becoming a Certified Flight Instructor

This is a common next step.

Many newly certified commercial pilots have only a few hundred flight hours.

They may need 1,500 or another qualifying ATP threshold before becoming eligible for many airline positions.

One of the most common ways to build those hours is by teaching others.

Flight-instructor certificates can include:

• CFI;
• CFII for instrument instruction;
• and MEI for multi-engine instruction.

BLS specifically notes that flight instruction helps pilots build time and experience while reducing the amount of flight time they must finance personally.

Step 12: Build Professional Flight Experience

This stage can take significant time.

Possible hour-building jobs include:

• flight instructor;
• charter pilot;
• aerial survey pilot;
• pipeline patrol pilot;
• sightseeing pilot;
• cargo pilot;
• skydiving pilot;
• corporate pilot;
• and other commercial operations.

The objective should not simply be accumulating numbers in a logbook.

Quality and variety of experience matter.

The FAA has specifically emphasized that flight experience should be evaluated in terms of both hours and the quality of experience obtained.

Step 13: Complete ATP Certification Requirements

For the standard unrestricted ATP pathway, pilots generally need:

1,500 total flight hours

along with other specific experience requirements.

For an airplane multi-engine ATP, pilots must also complete an approved Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training Program before taking the applicable knowledge test.

The ATP represents the highest basic level of FAA pilot certification.

What Is the 1,500-Hour Rule?

The term refers to requirements associated with pilots serving in U.S. Part 121 airline operations.

The FAA requires Part 121 First Officers to hold an ATP or qualifying Restricted ATP certificate.

For a standard unrestricted ATP, the widely known experience threshold is:

1,500 hours.

But there are important exceptions.

Restricted ATP: Can You Become an Airline Pilot With Fewer Than 1,500 Hours?

Potentially.

FAA rules permit qualifying pilots to obtain an ATP certificate with restricted privileges at reduced total flight-hour thresholds.

Examples include:

These reductions apply only when specific FAA requirements are satisfied. Simply earning any aviation degree does not automatically qualify someone for reduced ATP minimums.

The institution and program must have the appropriate FAA authorization, and additional certification conditions apply.

An R-ATP generally allows the pilot to serve as a First Officer while restricted privileges remain in effect.

Step 14: Apply to Airlines

Once you meet the airline's minimum qualifications, you can begin applying.

Requirements differ substantially among:

• regional airlines;
• major airlines;
• cargo airlines;
• low-cost carriers;
• charter operators;
• and corporate flight departments.

The FAA explicitly notes that it establishes certification minimums, while individual airlines may require more experience.

Airlines may consider:

• total flight time;
• multi-engine time;
• turbine time;
• Pilot-in-Command time;
• type of experience;
• education;
• safety record;
• training performance;
• checkride history;
• professionalism;
• and current hiring conditions.

Step 15: Complete Airline Training

Getting hired is not the final step.

New airline pilots complete company training that generally includes:

• aircraft systems;
• company procedures;
• regulations;
• cockpit procedures;
• simulator training;
• emergency procedures;
• Crew Resource Management;
• checkrides;
• and supervised operating experience.

BLS reports that newly hired airline and on-demand pilots generally complete several weeks of ground and flight training.

Pilots also receive aircraft-specific type ratings where required.

Step 16: Begin as a First Officer

Most airline pilots begin as First Officers.

You fly as part of a two-pilot crew while accumulating:

• aircraft experience;
• airline seniority;
• operating experience;
• and additional flight time.

Over time, you may become eligible to upgrade to Captain.

Step 17: Upgrade to Captain

Captain upgrade depends on:

• experience;
• qualifications;
• airline staffing;
• training performance;
• availability;
• and seniority.

The Captain has ultimate responsibility for:

• the aircraft;
• crew;
• passengers;
• and safe operation of the flight.

BLS notes that airline advancement is heavily influenced by seniority systems established through collective bargaining agreements.

Do You Need a College Degree to Become an Airline Pilot?

This requires an important distinction.

FAA requirement

A bachelor's degree is not universally required simply to earn FAA pilot certificates.

Employer requirement

BLS reports that airline pilots typically need a bachelor's degree in addition to prior experience as commercial or military pilots. The degree can be in many fields, including transportation, engineering or business.

Individual airline requirements can change depending on hiring conditions.

Some may require a degree.

Others may prefer one.

Others may place greater emphasis on flight experience.

Should You Get an Aviation Degree?

An aviation degree can offer advantages.

These may include:

• structured flight training;
• academic aviation education;
• recruiting relationships;
• professional networking;
• access to university aircraft;
• and potential eligibility for Restricted ATP reduced-hour pathways at qualifying FAA-authorized institutions.

But aviation degrees also have potential disadvantages:

• cost;
• concentration in one industry;
• and limited usefulness if you later decide not to fly professionally.

Another strategy is to obtain flight training while earning a degree in a different field.

There is no single correct path.

How Long Does It Take to Become an Airline Pilot?

The answer varies enormously.

The major stages may include:

Private Pilot

Often several months depending on training frequency.

Instrument Rating

Additional months.

Commercial Certificate

Requires building sufficient flight experience.

Instructor Ratings

Additional training.

Flight-Time Building

Potentially one to several years.

ATP or R-ATP Qualification

Depends on the pathway and total flight experience.

Airline Training

Several additional weeks after hiring.

A motivated full-time student can progress through the initial certificates relatively quickly.

The greater time requirement is often accumulating enough high-quality flight experience to qualify for airline employment.

For many civilian pilots, the complete process from first flight lesson to airline cockpit can take several years.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Pilot?

There is no authoritative single national price because training costs depend on:

• school;
• aircraft type;
• instructor rates;
• fuel;
• geography;
• how frequently you train;
• how many hours you need;
• Part 61 versus Part 141;
• financing;
• and how far you pursue training.

Costs can include:

• aircraft rental;
• instructor fees;
• ground school;
• FAA knowledge tests;
• medical examinations;
• examiner fees;
• books;
• headsets;
• charts and applications;
• Private Pilot training;
• Instrument Rating;
• Commercial training;
• Multi-Engine Rating;
• CFI;
• CFII;
• MEI;
• and hour building.

A professional zero-to-commercial or zero-to-CFI program can require a substantial five-figure investment and, depending on program structure, can exceed $100,000.

Because prices change significantly among schools, candidates should obtain written, itemized estimates directly from several training providers.

The FAA specifically advises prospective students not to select a training provider solely on price and recommends visiting schools, speaking with instructors and evaluating training quality before enrolling.

Pilot Medical Requirements

The medical exam is one of the most important issues to investigate early.

The FAA establishes:

First-Class Medical

Generally associated with Airline Transport Pilot privileges.

Second-Class Medical

Generally associated with Commercial Pilot privileges.

Third-Class Medical

Generally associated with Private Pilot privileges.

Medical standards address areas including:

• vision;
• color vision;
• hearing;
• cardiovascular health;
• neurological conditions;
• medications;
• mental health;
• and other conditions affecting safe flight.

For First-Class medical certification, FAA standards generally require distant vision correctable to 20/20 in each eye separately, along with other medical requirements.

Having glasses or contact lenses does not automatically prevent someone from becoming a professional pilot.

Should You Get a First-Class Medical Before Starting Professional Training?

If your goal is an airline career, obtaining a First-Class FAA medical early can be a prudent step.

You do not need an ATP certificate to apply for a First-Class medical.

This can help you identify potentially important medical certification issues before committing substantial resources to professional training.

Airline Pilot Salary in 2026

The latest BLS data report that the median annual wage for airline pilots, copilots and flight engineers was:

$232,140

in May 2025.

The earnings distribution was:

That makes airline piloting one of the highest-paying occupations that does not universally require a graduate or professional degree.

Commercial Pilot Salary

Commercial pilots had a median annual wage of:

$123,220

in May 2025.

The earnings distribution was:

Airline Pilot Salary by Industry

BLS reports substantial differences by industry.

Commercial Pilot Salary by Industry

Can Airline Pilots Make More Than $400,000?

Yes.

BLS reports that the highest 10% of airline pilots, copilots and flight engineers earned more than:

$463,830 per year

in 2025.

High compensation is most likely among experienced pilots at major carriers, particularly Captains with substantial seniority.

Actual compensation can include:

• base flight pay;
• overtime;
• premium trips;
• international pay;
• training pay;
• per diem;
• retirement contributions;
• profit sharing;
• and other contractual benefits.

Why Does Airline Pilot Pay Vary So Much?

Pilot compensation depends heavily on:

• airline;
• aircraft;
• Captain versus First Officer;
• seniority;
• flight schedule;
• international flying;
• monthly hours;
• premium assignments;
• collective bargaining agreement;
• and employer.

A newly hired First Officer and a senior widebody Captain can have dramatically different compensation even though both are airline pilots.

Seniority: One of the Most Important Concepts in an Airline Career

Seniority can influence:

• pay;
• Captain upgrades;
• aircraft assignment;
• base location;
• monthly schedule;
• vacation;
• route selection;
• reserve status;
• and job quality.

Pilots generally accumulate seniority from their date of hire with the airline.

Moving to another airline can mean beginning again near the bottom of that airline's seniority list.

That can make career decisions unusually important.

Pilot Job Outlook

BLS projects overall airline and commercial pilot employment to grow:

7% from 2025 through 2035

which is much faster than the 3% projection for all occupations.

Specifically:

Airline Pilots

8% projected growth

Commercial Pilots

5% projected growth

BLS projects approximately:

16,400 airline and commercial pilot openings each year

on average during the decade.

Why Will Pilot Demand Continue?

BLS identifies several forces supporting employment.

Passenger Travel

Continued demand for air travel, especially leisure travel, supports airline pilot employment.

Air Cargo

E-commerce growth supports freight transportation and cargo aviation.

Private Aviation

Demand for private charter flights supports commercial pilot employment.

Replacement Hiring

Many openings arise because pilots:

• retire;
• change occupations;
• or leave the labor force.

What Is the Airline Pilot Retirement Age?

For pilots employed by U.S. airlines certificated under Part 121, FAA rules currently prevent employment as a pilot after:

Age 65

The FAA states that pilots may potentially continue working in another airline role or fly for operators outside covered Part 121 operations after age 65.

This mandatory retirement structure contributes to recurring replacement demand.

Available Pilot Jobs and Career Paths

A professional pilot license can lead to many different careers.

Search for titles such as:

• Airline First Officer;
• Airline Captain;
• Regional Airline Pilot;
• Commercial Pilot;
• Corporate Pilot;
• Charter Pilot;
• Cargo Pilot;
• Flight Instructor;
• Helicopter Pilot;
• Air Ambulance Pilot;
• Medevac Pilot;
• Tour Pilot;
• Agricultural Pilot;
• Aerial Survey Pilot;
• Pipeline Patrol Pilot;
• Utility Pilot;
• Government Pilot;
• Firefighting Pilot;
• Test Pilot;
• Ferry Pilot;
• Fractional Ownership Pilot;
• and Flight Instructor.

Ready to see real pilot opportunities?

Use Assessment.com's Matching Jobs to identify current openings connected to your career profile and location.

View Matching Pilot Jobs

What Skills Do Pilots Need?

Professional pilots need a combination of technical, cognitive and interpersonal abilities.

Situational Awareness

Pilots continuously maintain awareness of:

• aircraft position;
• weather;
• traffic;
• altitude;
• speed;
• fuel;
• aircraft configuration;
• navigation;
• and system status.

Missing a small change can create a larger problem.

Precision

Aviation is procedure driven.

O*NET reports that virtually all surveyed airline pilots consider exactness and accuracy either very important or extremely important.

Decision Making

O*NET gives Making Decisions and Solving Problems very high importance for airline pilots.

Pilots may need to decide whether to:

• continue;
• divert;
• change altitude;
• delay departure;
• return to the airport;
• reject a takeoff;
• or declare an emergency.

Communication

BLS identifies communication as an essential pilot quality.

Pilots communicate with:

• air traffic controllers;
• dispatchers;
• flight attendants;
• other pilots;
• mechanics;
• ground personnel;
• and passengers.

Communication must be brief, accurate and understood.

Problem Solving

Weather changes.

Equipment can malfunction.

Airports close.

Routes change.

Fuel becomes a concern.

A passenger becomes ill.

Pilots need to evaluate options and select safe solutions.

BLS specifically identifies problem solving as a critical quality for pilots.

Quick Reaction Time

Pilots may have only seconds to respond appropriately to certain events.

BLS lists quick reaction time as an important occupational quality.

Teamwork

Modern airline aviation is built around Crew Resource Management.

Pilots must work effectively with:

• the other pilot;
• cabin crew;
• dispatch;
• maintenance;
• and air traffic control.

O*NET identifies working as part of a flight team, especially during takeoff and landing, as one of the occupation's central tasks.

Discipline

Pilots cannot simply improvise because they prefer another method.

Professional aviation is governed by:

• FAA regulations;
• aircraft limitations;
• operating manuals;
• checklists;
• company procedures;
• and standardized practices.

People who strongly dislike rules and procedures may find professional aviation frustrating.

Would You Like Being a Pilot?

This is where career matching becomes particularly valuable.

The image of flying an airplane can be attractive.

The actual career is highly structured.

You may enjoy being a pilot if you like:

• aviation;
• technology;
• complex machines;
• travel;
• responsibility;
• structured procedures;
• precise work;
• problem solving;
• independence within defined rules;
• working with small teams;
• changing environments;
• technical learning;
• high-skill professions;
• continuous training;
• and careers where competence matters.

You may dislike being a pilot if you dislike:

• strict procedures;
• repeated checklists;
• recurrent testing;
• medical certification;
• irregular schedules;
• early mornings;
• late nights;
• sleeping in hotels;
• working weekends;
• working holidays;
• being away from home;
• extended sitting;
• jet lag;
• seniority systems;
• high responsibility;
• or the possibility that your career depends on maintaining medical qualification.

How Much Sitting Is Involved?

More than many prospective pilots realize.

O*NET reports that 74% of airline pilots surveyed spend time sitting continually or almost continually, with the rest reporting sitting more than half of the time.

A pilot career involves travel.

It does not necessarily involve constant physical activity.

Is Being a Pilot Stressful?

It can be.

The normal goal of professional aviation is for flights to be routine.

But pilots remain responsible when they are not.

BLS notes that the concentration required to operate an aircraft and responsibility for passenger safety can be mentally fatiguing.

Stress can come from:

• weather;
• emergencies;
• delays;
• fatigue;
• schedule disruptions;
• medical certification;
• checkrides;
• training;
• and responsibility for passengers.

Is Being a Pilot Good for Someone Who Likes Travel?

Potentially.

But professional travel and vacation travel are different.

A pilot may see many cities while spending most of the trip inside:

• airports;
• airplanes;
• hotel vans;
• and hotel rooms.

You may fly to an interesting city and have only enough time to sleep before returning to the airport.

Is Being a Pilot Good for Introverts?

It can be.

Pilots work in small teams rather than constantly interacting with large groups.

However, communication is essential.

O*NET reports frequent face-to-face discussions within teams, and BLS identifies clear communication as a core professional requirement.

Is Being a Pilot Good for Someone Who Likes Independence?

Partially.

Pilots exercise significant professional judgment.

But aviation operates within strict boundaries.

You will work under:

• regulations;
• company procedures;
• air traffic control;
• aircraft limitations;
• and standardized checklists.

The ideal fit may be someone who values responsibility and autonomy within a structured system.

Is Being an Airline Pilot Safe?

Commercial aviation in the United States operates under extensive safety regulation, training and maintenance requirements.

However, professional flying still carries occupational risk.

BLS notes that although fatalities are uncommon, airline and commercial pilots historically experience one of the higher occupational fatality rates, reflecting hazards across a broad pilot category that includes more hazardous commercial operations as well as airline flying.

Risk varies dramatically among different types of flying.

Will Automation Replace Airline Pilots?

Aircraft automation has already transformed aviation.

Modern systems can automate substantial portions of:

• navigation;
• flight-path control;
• engine management;
• and approach procedures.

BLS notes that automation has eliminated the need for flight engineers on most modern aircraft.

However, current U.S. employment projections still anticipate growth in airline pilot employment through 2035.

The pilot's role increasingly combines:

• aircraft operation;
• automation management;
• systems monitoring;
• decision making;
• regulatory compliance;
• and emergency management.

The existence of automation should therefore be considered part of the career rather than evidence that professional pilots have already become unnecessary.

Career Advancement for Pilots

A common airline progression is:

Student Pilot → Private Pilot → Instrument-Rated Pilot → Commercial Pilot → Flight Instructor or Commercial Flying → ATP/R-ATP → Airline First Officer → Captain → Check Airman or Training Captain

Other pilots may move into:

• chief pilot;
• director of operations;
• flight department management;
• safety management;
• training;
• aircraft evaluation;
• aviation consulting;
• or FAA and regulatory work.

Pilot vs. Air Traffic Controller

Both careers involve aviation safety.

But they are very different.

Pilots

Operate aircraft.

Air Traffic Controllers

Coordinate aircraft movements from towers and radar facilities.

BLS reports a 2025 median annual salary of $148,080 for Air Traffic Controllers.

Someone interested in aviation but less interested in spending a career flying should explore both careers.

Not sure which aviation career fits you?

Take the Free MAPP Assessment and compare Pilot with your 10 Free Career Matches.

Discover My Career Matches

Pilot vs. Flight Attendant

Pilots are responsible primarily for aircraft operation and flight safety.

Flight attendants are responsible primarily for passenger safety and cabin service.

Both:

• travel;
• have irregular schedules;
• may spend nights away;
• operate within airline procedures;
• and work in safety-sensitive positions.

The education, licensing and training requirements are completely different.

Advantages of Becoming a Pilot

Potential advantages include:

• high earnings potential;
• strong projected employment growth;
• travel;
• significant responsibility;
• technically challenging work;
• professional status;
• airline travel benefits;
• substantial time off between trips;
• opportunity to advance to Captain;
• cargo, corporate and charter opportunities;
• intellectually demanding work;
• a clear skill-development path;
• and work that many people find personally exciting.

Challenges of Becoming a Pilot

Potential disadvantages include:

• expensive flight training;
• years of flight-hour accumulation;
• irregular schedules;
• nights away from home;
• seniority dependence;
• recurrent checkrides;
• recurrent training;
• medical-certification requirements;
• physical and mental fatigue;
• job-market cycles;
• responsibility for passenger safety;
• mandatory retirement from covered airline flying at age 65;
• and the possibility of career interruption following medical or economic events.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Pilot

How do I become a pilot?

A professional pilot typically progresses through a Student Pilot Certificate, Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, Multi-Engine Rating where appropriate, flight experience building and eventually an ATP or Restricted ATP for airline operations.

How do I become an airline pilot?

You generally need to complete professional flight training, earn the required FAA certificates and ratings, accumulate sufficient flight experience, qualify for an ATP or Restricted ATP, meet airline hiring standards and complete the airline's training program.

How old do you have to be to become a pilot?

For airplanes, the standard Student Pilot Certificate minimum age is 16.

The Private Pilot Certificate generally requires age 17.

Commercial Pilot applicants generally must be at least 18.

An unrestricted ATP generally requires age 23, while qualifying Restricted ATP applicants may be eligible beginning at age 21.

How many hours do you need to become a private pilot?

The standard Part 61 minimum for an airplane Private Pilot Certificate is 40 flight hours, although the FAA reports an average of approximately 75 hours.

How many hours do you need for a Commercial Pilot Certificate?

The FAA generally requires 250 total flight hours under the standard Part 61 pathway.

How many hours do you need to become an airline pilot?

The standard unrestricted ATP pathway generally requires 1,500 hours.

Qualifying Restricted ATP pathways may reduce this to 750, 1,000 or 1,250 hours depending on specific military or approved aviation-degree qualifications.

What is a Restricted ATP?

A Restricted ATP allows qualified pilots to serve in certain airline First Officer roles before meeting all requirements for unrestricted ATP privileges.

FAA-authorized aviation degree programs and qualifying military flight experience can provide reduced-hour pathways.

Do you need a degree to become a pilot?

Not necessarily to earn FAA pilot certificates.

However, BLS reports that airline pilots typically need a bachelor's degree, and individual airlines determine their own hiring standards.

Does your degree need to be in aviation?

Not necessarily.

BLS notes that airline pilot degrees may be in fields including transportation, engineering or business.

Do pilots need perfect eyesight?

No.

FAA standards permit corrected vision when applicable.

For First-Class medical certification, distant vision generally must be correctable to 20/20 in each eye separately.

Can you become a pilot if you wear glasses?

Yes, assuming you meet the applicable FAA medical vision standards with correction where permitted.

Do pilots need a medical exam?

Professional pilots exercising ATP or commercial privileges generally need the corresponding FAA medical certificate.

Private pilots generally need a Third-Class medical or may qualify for certain operations under BasicMed.

What medical certificate does an airline pilot need?

Pilots exercising unrestricted ATP privileges generally need a First-Class medical certificate.

What medical certificate does a commercial pilot need?

Generally a Second-Class medical certificate when exercising commercial pilot privileges.

How long does it take to become an airline pilot?

Often several years.

The initial certificates can sometimes be completed relatively quickly with full-time training, but accumulating the flight experience required for airline eligibility usually takes additional time.

Is pilot training expensive?

Yes.

Professional flight training requires aircraft rental, fuel, instructors, examinations and extensive flight time.

Candidates should compare written estimates from multiple flight schools and understand the complete path through Commercial, Instrument, Multi-Engine and instructor ratings before borrowing money.

Do pilots get paid while building 1,500 hours?

They can.

Many pilots build experience while working as:

• flight instructors;
• charter pilots;
• survey pilots;
• and in other commercial flying jobs.

Is becoming a flight instructor required?

No.

It is simply one of the most common methods of accumulating professional flight time.

Do all airline pilots start as First Officers?

New airline pilots generally begin as First Officers before eventually becoming eligible for Captain positions.

How much do airline pilots make?

The median annual wage for airline pilots, copilots and flight engineers was $232,140 in May 2025.

How much do commercial pilots make?

Commercial pilots earned a median annual wage of $123,220 in May 2025.

Can pilots make over $400,000?

Yes.

BLS reports that the highest 10% of airline pilots earned more than $463,830 in 2025.

What type of pilots make the most money?

Senior Captains at major passenger and cargo airlines can be among the highest-paid pilots.

BLS reported median airline pilot compensation of $334,930 in couriers and express delivery services and $293,240 in scheduled air transportation during 2025.

Do airline pilots get free flights?

BLS reports that airline pilots and immediate family members commonly receive free or reduced-fare travel benefits.

How many hours do airline pilots work?

BLS reports approximately 75 flight hours per month, plus another 150 hours per month performing duties such as flight planning and weather review.

Do airline pilots sleep away from home?

Frequently.

Overnight trips and hotel stays are normal for many airline pilots.

Do pilots work weekends and holidays?

Yes.

Airlines operate every day.

Seniority can significantly affect schedule quality.

Is there an age limit for airline pilots?

Pilots employed as pilots by U.S. Part 121 air carriers currently cannot continue in that role beyond age 65.

Is being a pilot stressful?

It can be.

Pilots bear substantial responsibility, must maintain concentration for long periods and may need to respond quickly to emergencies or changing conditions.

Is airline pilot a growing career?

Yes.

BLS projects airline pilot employment to grow 8% from 2025 through 2035.

What if I love aviation but Pilot does not match me?

There are many aviation careers worth exploring, including:

• Air Traffic Controller;
• Aircraft Mechanic;
• Avionics Technician;
• Aerospace Engineer;
• Flight Attendant;
• Airfield Operations Specialist;
• Dispatcher;
• Aviation Safety Inspector;
• Airport Manager;
• and Aerospace Engineering Technician.

O*NET identifies numerous aviation occupations related to professional pilots.

Is Becoming a Pilot Worth It?

For the right person, professional aviation offers an unusual combination of:

• high compensation;
• technical skill;
• travel;
• responsibility;
• career progression;
• and the opportunity to do something relatively few people are qualified to do professionally.

But the investment is significant.

You may spend years:

• training;
• paying for aircraft time;
• earning ratings;
• building flight hours;
• completing checkrides;
• and working lower-paying aviation jobs before reaching a major airline cockpit.

You must also maintain:

• medical qualification;
• technical proficiency;
• recurrent training;
• and professional standards throughout your career.

That makes career fit especially important.

Someone who loves airplanes but dislikes procedures, irregular schedules or repeated evaluation may discover that recreational flying is more enjoyable than professional flying.

Someone who enjoys precision, systems, responsibility, travel and structured decision making may find that piloting is one of the most satisfying careers available.

The Bottom Line: Should You Become a Pilot?

Pilot is one of the highest-paid careers on this list of America's most searched career paths.

BLS reports a median airline pilot salary above $232,000, with the top 10% earning more than $463,000.

Demand is projected to grow.

There are multiple career pathways.

And no medical-school, law-school or doctoral degree is universally required.

But becoming an airline pilot is not easy.

It requires:

• substantial flight training;
• significant financial investment;
• hundreds and eventually thousands of flight hours;
• FAA examinations;
• practical checkrides;
• medical certification;
• continuous training;
• and years of professional development.

Before choosing a flight school, borrowing money or building a career plan around aviation, determine whether the actual work fits you.

Do not choose Pilot just because the career looks exciting.

Find out whether it matches how you are naturally motivated to work.

Take the Free MAPP Assessment and use your 10 Free Career Matches to see how Pilot compares with other careers based on your motivations, interests and work preferences.

Your results can help you understand:

• how strongly Pilot matches you;
• what you may love about the career;
• what you may dislike;
• how to become one;
• required education and training;
• salary;
• career outlook;
• related careers;
• educational pathways;
• and available jobs.

‍