Expert: David Bidwell - 10/9/2006

Question
    Do you have to have a college degree to become a Capt. of a plane for a major airline?..Working towards Commercial license in future.  Is it futile to continue?

Answer
Hi Dustin,
To my knowledge all of the major airlines and even most commuters require a bachelors degree.  It is a very competitive industry and they have their pick of pilots.  I certainly do not think that it is futile to continue if it is something that you really want.  I am assuming that you do not have a degree.  Get one.  Many schools such as Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (www.erau.edu) even allow you to get your degree on line!  If you can attend in person, many of these schools will even give you a job as an instructor so you can build the much needed hours.
Go for it, good luck,
Dave