You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- applying directly
- a trainee scheme
- specialist courses run by private training organisations
University
You could do a university degree in air transport or aviation, which includes commercial pilot training with an approved flight training organisation.
To start a course, you’ll need:
- A levels or equivalent qualifications
- a minimum of a Class 2 medical certificate
- to be over 18
You’ll need to apply for the higher level Class 1 medical certificate during your course to get your Commercial Pilot’s Licence. If you wish, you can apply for the Class 1 certificate before your course starts.
University courses lead to a ‘frozen’ Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL). This allows you to apply to airlines to work as a co-pilot and build up the necessary flying hours to become an airline captain.
As well as standard university fees, you will need to fund the flight training part of your course. Universities can advise you about this.
Entry Requirements
You’ll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
Direct Application: you may be able to apply directly to the Civil Aviation Authority’s Military Accreditation Scheme to become a commercial pilot, if you have flying experience in the armed forces.
You’ll need the following skills:
- leadership skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- knowledge of maths
- thinking and reasoning skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- observation and recording skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
You’ll need to:
- be over 21 years of age
- hold a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)
- pass the Civil Aviation Authority medical before you can take a course – the medical includes tests on your fitness, hearing and vision
- pass enhanced background checks
