Do Airlines Prefer Part 61 or Part 141?

Preparing to work as an airline pilot? You may be concerned about whether or not airlines do prefer Part 61 or Part 141 flight training programs. Fortunately, Paragon Flight enjoys both authorizations, so we’re able to provide various paths for our students to the same cockpit in the end.

Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR): Part 61 vs Part 141

While both provide a viable path to the same licenses, Parts 61 and 141 allow for differences in some aspects of training. Part 61 programs allow for flexibility of curriculum and structure. We’re able to curate programs, focusing on the individual needs of our students, but the flight hour requirements are greater for Part 61 programs than for Part 141 options.

Part 141 program structure is firmly established, with the seal of approval of the FAA. These courses require FAA evaluation and certification, and the rigorous training involved establishes room for fewer required hours of flight time.

Benefits of Part 141 Training

Airlines often prefer Part 141 training programs because they offer greater efficiency and higher standards. The structure of the 141-authorized course is perceived as being more comprehensive and standardized, elements that airlines value.

The 141 courses also allow for fewer documented flight hours. The Private Pilot License (PPL), for instance, requires 35 hours for Part 141 programs while mandating 40 for Part 61. Airlines prefer the speed with which pilots can complete training when fewer hours are required as well as the commitment to training this speed implies.

The regulated nature of Part 141 program curriculum appeals to airlines because of the credibility it adds to the results. Airlines will view graduates of Part 141 courses with a favorable eye because of the overall viewpoint that the training is better quality and produces better results.

Overcoming the Bias

Airlines may prefer Part 141 programs, but Part 61 courses still lead to the same licenses and skills. Completing training with this type of program does not negate successful outcomes. Just as with any other career goal, success comes by building your resume and demonstrating your skills. If you face obstacles to training that require flexibility, or if you have previous experience, a Part 61 course could be the better option for your training.

Building a Resume for an Airline

Ultimately, an airline will require that you have an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification and 1,500 logged flight hours. The P3 Program at Paragon Flight will help you get on your way at a faster clip, securing a Private Pilot License (PPL), Instrument Flight Rating (IFR), Commercial Single-Engine and Multi-Engine License (CSEL/CMEL), and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) license within 38 weeks.

Impress an airline by using that flight instructor license to rack up flight time and master skills, demonstrating to any airline how successful you will be in the airline arena.

Choose Paragon Flight for your flight instruction experience. The weather at all three of our locations is conducive to practical training all year long, over 300 days/year. The facilities are modern with tower-controlled runways and nearby accommodations for every budget and preference. We also offer ideal instructors, curriculum, and aircraft.

Click here to book Paragon Flight, where we do offer Part 61 or Part 141 courses, regardless of which airlines prefer for success as one of their pilots.