Expert: D. Norkus - 12/5/2007

Question
I am a final year mechanical engineering student from India & I wish to pursue a career in pilot training. Which are the best flying schools in the US that i could join ? Also when does the course begin ? Are there short term courses for engineers like me who join a flying school but yet get the best training ?

Answer
Nihal

As an Indian foreign national wanting to come to the United States and flight train to become a pilot, you must apply and be approved for a special pilot visa. Also, you will be limited in the flight schools you may attend. You can only go to a flight school approved by the government to accept non-U.S. citizens.

You will need to go to the government website for information and the pilot visa application. Additionally, you will need to provide proof of financing or the ability to fund your training- http://www.flightschoolcandidates.gov

On that website you will find the list of approved schools. You will only be able to pick one from that list.

Once enrolled at an approved flight school, you can begin the course at any time as it is one on one instruction. Some schools may offer group courses for knowledge exam preparation and those repeat every few weeks.

Short term course for engineers?
Sorry but no, there is no such thing. All pilots in training must pass the same curriculum and tests to become certified.

I suggest a visit to this site that may be of assitance-
http://www.indianpilots.com  


Good luck to you.

Dottie