Becoming an airline pilot is a dream career for many, and Paragon Flight offers achievable, structured professional pilot training to make that dream a reality. Whether starting with zero flight experience or looking to advance your current aviation training, you’ll receive the guidance, instruction, and resources to take you from the ground to the flight deck.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming an airline pilot with Paragon Flight.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you begin flight training, make sure you meet the minimum qualifications for pilot certification in the United States:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a high school diploma or GED (college education is a plus)
• Obtain an FAA First-Class Medical Certificate
• Be fluent in English
• Have a clean driving record and FAA history

Paragon Flight requires students in its professional programs to complete a cognitive and behavioral evaluation, ensuring readiness for flight training and professional operations.

Step 2: Enroll in a Professional Pilot Program

Paragon Flight offers two paths for aspiring airline pilots:

The Accelerated Track

The P3 Professional Pilot Program is ideal for motivated, full-time students. With daily flight lessons, structured ground instruction, and continuous evaluations, students go from zero experience to certified instructors in just 38 weeks. The program includes:

• Private Pilot License (PPL)
• Instrument Flight Rating (IFR)
• Commercial Pilot Licenses (Single-Engine and Multi-Engine)
• Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

The Modular Track

Paragon’s Airline and Commercial Pilot Training allows part-time progression through the same certifications with evening and weekend training options. This flexibility is ideal for students balancing training with work, school, or other commitments.

Step 3: Build Hours and Experience

After becoming a CFI, most pilots build flight hours by teaching others. The FAA requires 1,500 hours of flight time for Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) eligibility, and instructing is an effective and economical way to meet that requirement.

At Paragon Flight, many graduates are offered the opportunity to continue as instructors at the school, gaining valuable experience in a familiar and supportive environment.

Step 4: Earn Your ATP Certificate

The final step to becoming an airline pilot is to earn your Airline Transport Pilot certificate—the highest level of FAA pilot certification. You’ll need:

• 1,500 total flight hours (or fewer with approved reductions, like military or specific degree programs)
• A strong understanding of airline operations, systems, and procedures
• To pass a written exam and a rigorous checkride with an FAA examiner

Paragon Flight helps students navigate the ATP process, including recommending certification training program courses when the time comes.

Step 5: Start Your Career

You can apply for regional airline positions once you’ve earned your ATP and the required flight time. Many Paragon graduates go on to work for:

• Delta Connection carriers
• Southwest Airlines
• American Eagle (Envoy Air)
• Charter and corporate aviation firms

Major carriers actively seek candidates with a strong foundational education, diverse flight experience, and a track record of safety and professionalism, values that Paragon Flight instills in our students.

Your Future in Aviation Starts Here

If you’re serious about an aviation career, Paragon Flight is your answer to how to become a confident, component airline pilot. From meeting the basic requirements to building hours and earning your ATP, we offer the structure and guidance you need for success. Contact us to get started today!