If you’ve dreamed of becoming a commercial pilot, there’s never been a better time to take flight. Starting pay for entry-level commercial pilots now averages $80,000 per year, with experienced captains earning over $280,000 annually. At Paragon Flight, based in Fort Myers, Florida, our accelerated Professional Pilot Program (P3) is designed to help you earn your wings faster while developing the skills, character, and confidence to thrive in a commercial aviation career.

About the Program

Paragon’s Professional Pilot Program delivers top-tier training, leadership development, and career readiness in the shortest time possible. With Fort Myers’ 350 flyable days a year, you’ll train more often, progress faster, and experience minimal weather delays.

In under 10 months, you can earn your commercial licenses and become a Certified Flight Instructor through an efficient curriculum that includes:

Step 1 – Private Pilot Certificate (PPL)
Your journey starts with the PPL—the foundation of your career. During this step, you’ll develop safe flying habits, strong decision-making skills, and solid flight fundamentals.

Step 2 – Instrument Rating (IFR)
Next, you’ll learn to fly safely in low-visibility and all-weather conditions using avionics, radios, and navigation systems. IFR skills are essential for nearly every professional flight.

Step 3 – Commercial Pilot License (CSEL & CMEL)
This stage focuses on achieving the precision and mastery required to meet commercial pilot standards. You can earn your Commercial Single-Engine Land (CSEL) rating, Commercial Multi-Engine Land (CMEL) rating, or both for maximum versatility.

Optional – Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/MEI)
Many graduates choose to become instructors, gaining paid flying experience while building hours toward airline requirements. We offer CFI for single-engine and MEI for multi-engine instruction.

To qualify for P3, you’ll need to:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or GED (college preferred).
• Provide two character references.
• Hold an FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate.
• Have a clean record and good moral character.
• Commit to full-time training (4–5 lessons per week).

The Paragon Advantage

Choosing Paragon Flight’s accelerated commercial pilot training means joining a community of dedicated aviators committed to your success. You’ll benefit from:

Expert Instructors

Our award-winning instructors bring decades of airline, corporate, and military experience to every lesson, offering insights that go far beyond FAA requirements. You’ll learn proven techniques, sound decision-making, and industry best practices from flying fighter jets to long-haul airliners.

State-of-the-Art Fleet & Equipment

Paragon students train on a modern fleet that includes the Piper P100i, Piper Seminole, Cessna 172S, and Cirrus SR20 G6, all equipped with Garmin G1000 glass-cockpit avionics. You’ll also practice advanced maneuvers, IFR procedures, and emergency scenarios on industry-leading flight simulators, ensuring you’re prepared to handle any situation safely.

Personalized Mentorship

At Paragon, you’re never just a number. From your first day to graduation, you’ll have one-on-one guidance, detailed progress tracking, and ongoing feedback to help you stay on course. Our instructors and advisors work closely with you to keep your training efficient, focused, and aligned with your career goals.

Financial Support

We know financing your training can be a challenge. That’s why our team helps you explore every option, from government-backed loans and aviation scholarships to private loans and educational grants. We work to match you with funding solutions that fit your budget so you can focus on your training, not your finances.

Ready to Take Off?

Whether you’re starting fresh or switching careers, Paragon Flight’s accelerated Professional Pilot Program gives you the tools, training, and connections to launch your aviation career. Call (239) 747-0056 or contact us online to speak with an advisor and start your commercial pilot training journey today.