AboutPaul Ruderham Expertise I have been studying aviation for over twenty years. I know about the function of airlines, how aeroplanes fly, aviation accidents and why they happen. I am also an accomplished model aeroplane pilot, and a flight simulator expert. I have flown chipmunks and light aircraft.
Experience Hands on experience working at the airport, plus many hours of studying airlines and different types of aeroplanes.
Question Hi, I've been interested in becoming an airline pilot for sometime now and I've finally decided that this is the career that I want. I already have my bachelor's in communication and am trying to find out what I need to do to become a pilot. I've been looking at different flight schools online, but I don't know which one would be the best one. Two of the schools that I came across are ATP Flight School and National Pilot Academy. Are these good schools and if not can you tell me what schools that would be the best. I've also heard that you need 1000 hours to get hired by an airline. Can you please let me know what I need to do, how many hours I need and the best way to go about this.
Thanks,
Mike
Answer Hi Mike,
This is the most asked question I get. Well, to attain your ATP (Airline Transport Pilots licence) is a long haul.
There are a few ways. You can apply to one of the airlines who will train you from scratch up to first officer and then MAYBE employ you afterwards. The cost of the course is then deducted from your salary over a set period of time. I believe British Airways still do this. Or you can start by getting your Private pilots licence which is 40 hours of flying plus theory tests. Cost in the uk is around £6000 or roughly $11,000. Then you can take a course to get your CPL (Commercial Pilots Licence). About 1 year of flying and theory tests csot around $40,000. Then you have to log at least 1500 hours of flying time solo and dual to then apply to take the ATP licence which enables you to fly in command.
It's a lot of work and dedication and expense. Good luck
PR
