Commercial Pilot Training
Becoming a pilot is a noble profession, albeit one with lots of responsibilities. But it can also be incredibly rewarding. If you're serious about making a career out of flying, a commercial pilot license is a perfect place to begin!
What is Commercial Pilot Training?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues different types of pilot licenses, with a commercial pilot license being the highest certification possible for non-professional pilots. You need a commercial pilot license to get compensated for flying a cargo or passenger aircraft. Unsurprisingly, the requirements to obtain a commercial license are more stringent than those for recreational or private pilot licenses.
The easiest way to become a commercial pilot is to enroll in an approved Part 141 flight school like UND Aerospace Foundation and complete your flight training, which will involve ground instruction and flying time. Alternatively, you can complete your training through a Part 61 flight school, although this route is often less structured and significantly more expensive.
Requirements for a Commercial Pilot License
In order to become a licensed commercial pilot, you must meet the following requirements set out by the FAA:
- be at least 18 years old
- be able to read, speak, and understand the English language
- hold a current private pilot license
- receive relevant flight and ground training, plus endorsements from an authorized flight instructor
- pass the FAA written Aeronautical Knowledge test
- pass the FAA Commercial Pilot Checkride (practical test)
What are the Benefits of Commercial Pilot Training?
Better Job Prospects
In recent years, the demand for qualified pilots has been on the rise both in the civilian and military sectors. By obtaining a commercial pilot license, you'll be in a prime position to take advantage of the ongoing boom in air travel and potentially land a high-paying job as a commercial pilot.
Increased Earning Potential
In addition to opening up more job opportunities, having a commercial pilot license also allows you to command a higher salary. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, commercial pilots earned a median salary of $99,640 in 2021, significantly higher than the median wage for most other occupations.
Travel The World
If you love to travel, becoming a commercial pilot is the perfect way to see more of the world while getting paid for it. What could be better than getting paid to do something you love? Seeing new places and experiencing different cultures is one of the great joys of life, and as a commercial pilot, you'll have plenty of opportunities to do just that.
Flexible Schedule
Commercial pilots typically have a more flexible schedule than other occupations, which can be a major perk. While you may have to work odd hours or weekends occasionally, you'll generally enjoy a better work/life balance as a commercial pilot.
Exciting and Challenging Work
Flying is an exciting and challenging profession that's perfect for those who love a bit of adventure. No two days are the same in the world of aviation, which makes it a great career choice for anyone who's looking for something different.
Job Satisfaction
Commercial pilot jobs can sometimes be notoriously stressful, but they're also hugely rewarding. There's nothing quite like the feeling of successfully getting passengers to their destination safely; it's an incredible rush that never gets old. If you're looking for a career that is both challenging and satisfying, commercial piloting is definitely worth a shot.
What to Expect During Commercial Pilot Training
Commercial pilot training builds on the skills and knowledge you've already acquired as a private pilot. Training begins with a review of basic aerodynamics, aircraft systems, and regulations, followed by more advanced topics such as cross-country flying, night flying, and instrument flying. You'll also spend time learning about different commercial pilot maneuvers, including takeoffs, landings, stalls, spins, and emergency procedures. Your flight training will involve solo and supervised flights in a single-engine aircraft. Once you're confident and proficient in all the required skills, you'll be ready to take your commercial pilot check ride and earn your license.
Why Join the UND Aerospace Foundation?
A career as a commercial airline pilot comes with many benefits, including increased job prospects, increased earning potential, and the opportunity to see more of the world, among other things. If you're interested in becoming a commercial pilot, the UND Aerospace Foundation offers high-quality training that will prepare you for success in aviation. We have a team of experienced flight instructors who will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a safe and competent pilot. As one of the leading flight schools in the United States, the UND Aerospace Foundation Phoenix Flight Training Center has a reputation of continuous success in meeting and exceeding industry standards in flight training and aerospace learning for over two decades.
Being a non-profit organization, the commercial pilot license cost at UND Aerospace is highly competitive, making our Phoenix Flight Training Center a great choice for those interested in becoming commercial pilots. So, if you're looking for an exciting and challenging career, commercial pilot training at the UND Aerospace Foundation is the perfect place to be! Contact us today to learn more about our flight training programs and how we can help you achieve your goal of becoming a pilot.