Expert: Ned Dolan - 5/29/2007

Question
Hi Ned Dolan. I would just like to know what degrees/GCSE's you need to become a comercial pilot, because i've heard that you might need a good science degree or something

Answer
Hi Dandy, the license you need to become a commercial pilot is issued by the FAA and there are no educational requirements other than the studies necessary to pass the commercial test. These studies can be completed in many ways. You can get some books and do the ground school work on your own or you can enroll in a school.

The flight portion of the studies must be done with the instruction provided by a qualified instructor. You can hire one to help you or again you could go to a school that has the flying in the curriculum.

The qualifications needed to get hired by an airline will vary with the supply of pilots. However, in most cases the airlines will require a 4 year degree. I don't think they will care what your degree is in, but a more technical degree like physics or science may be better.

There are schools that provide both the education needed for a degree and the flying portion needed for your commercial license. One of these is Embry Riddle University. Their website is www.erau.edu/pr/index.html

Good luck.  Ned