How to Become a Pilot: Your Journey Starts Here at UND Aerospace

How to Become a Pilot: Your Journey Starts Here at UND Aerospace
February 19, 2025

How to Become a Pilot: Your Journey Starts Here at UND Aerospace

Becoming a pilot can be a thrilling adventure that opens up a world of rewarding career opportunities. If you dream of joining the fast-growing and highly lucrative world of aviation, the first step is enrolling in a respected flight school.

At UND Aerospace Foundation, we offer comprehensive pilot training programs to guide you through every stage of your aviation journey, from private pilot to instrument and eventually to commercial pilot certification and flight instructor certification.

What Does It Take to Become a Pilot?

To become a pilot, you must obtain the training, skills, and licenses to operate an aircraft safely. This begins with obtaining a private pilot license, enabling you to fly small, single-engine aircraft for personal and recreational purposes. This foundational training prepares you for more advanced training, including commercial pilot certification, necessary for those looking to make a living flying professionally.

Flight training equips you with the technical skills required to operate an aircraft and enhances leadership and decision-making, essential for safe flying. As a top-rated flight school Mesa, we offer structured pilot training programs that adhere to FAA Part 141 regulations, ensuring you receive world-class training tailored to your goals.

Steps to Becoming a Pilot at UND Aerospace Phoenix Flight School:

Before you begin your journey to becoming a pilot, you must meet all FAA qualification requirements. This includes meeting the age requirements, obtaining the necessary medical certification, and having the appropriate educational background. Meeting these prerequisites will ensure you qualify for enrollment at our esteemed Arizona flight school. From there, you can:

  • Schedule a Discovery Flight: Experience what it takes to fly firsthand by taking a discovery flight. This optional trial experience is done under the guidance of a seasoned flight instructor and will give you a taste of what it’s like to be the pilot in command and help you decide if flying is the right career for you.


  • Choose the Right Flight Training Path: Determine whether you want to pursue our accelerated flight training program or the 2-year collegiate flight program—offered in partnership with Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC).


  • Enroll and Start Your Flight Training: Once you’ve completed the preliminary steps, it’s time to enroll and start your pilot training. As mentioned earlier, the first step is obtaining a private pilot certificate.


  • Complete Your Private Pilot Training: Our flight training programs include ground school lessons and hands-on flight training, helping you develop the skills to become a competent pilot and pass your FAA written exams and flight checks. Our training focuses on helping you master everything you need to know about flying, including navigation, communication, and aircraft systems, ensuring you obtain your private pilot license hassle-free.


  • Advance to Instrument and Commercial Pilot Training: With your private pilot license in hand, you can now pursue an instrument rating and commercial pilot certification. This training builds upon your foundational knowledge as a private pilot and prepares you for a career as a professional pilot.


  • Consider Specializations: After obtaining a commercial pilot license, you may want to explore additional certifications, such as a Multi-Engine Rating and Flight Instructor certification, which will further enhance your qualifications and marketability in the job market.


Why Choose UND Aerospace for Your Pilot Training?


Proven Track Record

At UND Aerospace, we have established ourselves as a leader in global aviation education, boasting a proven track record of producing highly sought-after pilots. Our accelerated pilot training program is designed to help you become a skilled pilot in a relatively short time, often allowing you to go from zero experience to a professional commercial pilot in as little as 12 months.

Industry-Leading Instructors

Our team of certified and highly experienced flight instructors offers extensive knowledge both in the classroom and in the cockpit. Paired with our personalized approach to training, you will receive top-tier instruction tailored to your learning style, ensuring you master all essential concepts and skills.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Based out of the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, our state-of-the-art flight training school is equipped with modern classroom facilities, advanced flight simulators, and a well-maintained fleet of aircraft. This wholesome environment provides an optimal setting for our student pilots to thrive and succeed.

Flexible Training Options

We recognize that each student has distinct needs and schedules. Therefore, we provide flexible training options that allow you to progress at your own pace, ensuring that the quality of your education remains uncompromised.

The Benefits of Becoming a Pilot

Becoming a pilot not only fulfills a dream for many but also opens up rewarding career opportunities. And with the aviation industry currently facing significant pilot shortages, a high demand for competent pilots is expected to persist into the coming years. This makes now the perfect time to enroll at our Arizona flight school to pursue your dream of flying professionally.

Career Opportunities and Growth

As a commercial pilot, you can explore various career paths, including cargo operations, corporate aviation, flight instruction, crop dusting, aerial surveying, and air ambulance services, based on your experience level and additional certifications. As you gain experience, opportunities for advancement and specialized roles become available.

Rewarding Compensation

In addition to being one of the best-paying careers, professional pilots often enjoy comprehensive benefits packages, including retirement plans, health insurance, and travel perks. The financial stability and added benefits are an attractive incentive for many aspiring pilots.

Start Your Journey Today!

If you're ready to take the first step towards becoming a pilot, UND Aerospace is here to help actualize your dreams. Our comprehensive flight training programs, experienced instructors, and commitment to excellence make us the best Arizona flight school. 

Contact us today to learn more about how to become a pilot and embark on your aviation journey with confidence. Your dream awaits!