Good afternoon,
I am a 29 year old looking into changing careers to become a pilot. I am currently in the airline industry as a cargo and ramp agent, but I am looking and wondering about becoming a pilot. Any information that can be given to help me understand the requirements as well as any information on what I need to do will be greatly appreciated. Is there an age limit to become a pilot/Captain? Any special requirements needed?, etc.
Thank you in advance,
Chris
Just some basic information to work for a part 121 airline like Delta, United, etc you need to get an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) license for that you will need 1,500 flight hours. But to get hired at Delta or another Legacy/major airline you’ll have to work for a regional airline first you still need an ATP for that. Flight school takes anywhere from 9 months to 4 years depending on how you do it and some people take even longer. Basically you can become a commercial pilot with 250 flight hours but then you’ll need to find a job, which is harder with low hours so most people become CFIs (Certified flight instructors) and build there hours that way. As far as age at 29 you are still young enough to have a great career, retirement is only mandatory at 65 so that would give you 30+ years by the time you’d be qualified.
Usually in school, how many days a week is it and how many hours can you get each week? Is there any limits on that?
Christopher,
Please check out the FAQ section as many of your questions are answered there.
Chris