Many people dream of one day becoming a commercial pilot, encouraged by the glamorous image of travelling around the world. However, a pilot career requires plenty of commitment and dedication – both financially and in terms of training – and it’s a common misconception that all pilots, with a little bit of training, earn massive six-figure salaries with the minimum of effort.

Yes, it’s perfectly possible to achieve a desirable, rewarding lifestyle as a commercial pilot – but you’ll take a long old time getting there.

Learn more about pilot career training by reading the advice provided below.

How to Train For Pilot Jobs

• First of all, it’s essential to bear in mind that acquiring the necessary experience for pilots jobs will not be a walk in the park – although it’s a relatively niche profession, the competition to secure a place on a pilot training scheme can be intense.  Many courses will require some evidence of a passion for aviation – so before you apply, try and expand your knowledge of pilot jobs as much as possible.
• If you have little or no flying experience, you will need to train towards a PPL – a Private Pilot’s Licence. Working towards this particular licence should give you some idea as to whether you are cut out for the challenging demands of a pilot job. The financial demands of acquiring this licence will also be far smaller than advanced training – although it will still set you back £5000-7000. It can take up to 2 years or more to work towards this licence.
• Next, it’s time to consider advanced pilot training – and it’s at stage that you will need to make serious considerations over whether this is the right career path for you. Training can be extremely expensive, with costs averaging from £50,000-£60,000 – although, as touched on above, completing flight training and gaining the qualifications needed to become a commercial pilot can offer you the chance to gain a high basic annual  income in the long term – in some cases over £100,000 a year.
• Medical examinations will naturally be a key component of advanced flight training, and you should expect regular tests throughout the length of the course. In order to complete the training process, you’ll need to exhibit a clean bill of health in relation to eyesight and physical fitness.
• Finally, key ground studies explored in pilot career training will include aviation law, flight performance, navigational studies, meteorological studies, operational procedures and communication studies.

Find pilot careers on Airline Pilot Jobs