How to become a pilot in the USA
Requirements and qualifications
Becoming a pilot is a life-changing career. One that sees you take to the skies in an office above the clouds; you’ll get to travel the world while making life-long friends and experiencing different countries and cultures. The requirements to enroll on a pilot training program may be less extensive than you think!
What qualifications are required to become a pilot?
To become a commercial pilot, there are some qualifications you need to meet before you begin your pilot training.
The medical certificate is used to confirm your physical qualification as a pilot. It proves that you meet health and fitness conditions and are fit to perform the flight. As these requirements should naturally always be met, you must take the medical tests at intervals of six months to a year during your career as a pilot.
There are other additional requirements you need to meet before you can become a commercial pilot:
- At least 16 years old in order to receive your Private Pilot Certificate
- Proficient in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English
- A high school graduate or GED completer
- Able to obtain an FAA medical certificate. In order to prove your qualification a photocopy of an FAA Medical Certificate is sufficient
Skills to become a pilot
Needless to say, qualifications are not the only important factor when it comes to becoming a pilot. You may also ask yourself what skills does a pilot need? We have summarized the most important ones for you below:
- Excellent communication skills and teamwork
- Demonstrate leadership skills and self-confidence
- Excellent spatial awareness and coordination skills
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Desire to learn
- Decisiveness & quick-thinking skills
