Becoming a commercial airline pilot is an exciting career path, but it requires a structured training process, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications, and a commitment to building flight experience. At Paragon Flight Training, we guide students through every step, offering FAA-approved programs, modern aircraft, and personalized instruction to help you progress efficiently and confidently.

Here’s a look at what the process typically includes:

1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before you begin training, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old to hold a commercial pilot certificate (but you can start earlier)
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
• Hold at least a second-class FAA medical certificate issued by an Aviation Medical Examiner.

2. Start with Private Pilot Training

Most pilots begin by earning a Private Pilot Certificate (PPL). This is your foundation for all future training and allows you to fly single-engine aircraft for non-commercial purposes.

At this stage, you will:

• Complete ground school for aeronautical knowledge
• Log at least 40 flight hours (Part 61) or 35 hours (Part 141)
• Pass an FAA written knowledge test and a practical flight test

3. Advance to Instrument Rating (IFR)

An Instrument Rating expands your capabilities, allowing you to fly in a broader range of weather conditions and operate solely by reference to cockpit instruments. Training involves a minimum of 40 hours of instrument flight time, focusing on navigation, meteorology, and advanced flight planning skills.

4. Earn a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) 

This license qualifies you to be paid for your flying. Under Part 141 training, you’ll need at least 190 total flight hours (or 250 hours under Part 61). You’ll train in more complex aircraft, improve precision maneuvers, and demonstrate advanced aeronautical decision-making.

5. Add a Multi-Engine Rating

Most airline operations require multi-engine experience. The Multi-Engine Rating teaches you how to handle larger, faster aircraft with more complex systems, including single-engine-out procedures.

6. Build Flight Time and Experience

Before you can move on to airline training, you need to log additional hours. Many aspiring pilots become Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) to build experience while earning income.

7. Earn an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate

The ATP is the highest FAA pilot certification and is required to serve as a captain for an airline. To qualify, you must:

• Be at least 23 years old
• Log 1,500 total flight hours
• Complete ATP-CTP ground school and simulator training

8. Apply to Airlines and Begin Type-Specific Training

Once hired, you’ll complete the airline’s type rating training for the specific aircraft you’ll fly. This is where your FAA certifications meet real-world airline procedures and operations.

Ready to Train with Paragon Flight?

As an FAA-approved Part 141 and Part 61 school, Paragon Flight offers a complete professional pilot pathway to take students from zero experience to multi-engine commercial certification. Our campuses in Southwest Florida and Georgia offer ideal flying conditions and access to diverse airspace, providing an efficient training environment that prepares you for real-world aviation.

At Paragon, every student’s training is custom-built around their lifestyle, career goals, experience, and schedule for efficient progress without unnecessary costs or delays. You’ll receive a clear course outline, a realistic timeline, and a detailed cost estimate, along with guidance on financing options such as government-backed loans, scholarships, private loans, and grants.

If you’ve been wondering what the steps to becoming a commercial airline pilot are, Paragon Flight has the answer. With personalized training, state-of-the-art resources, and comprehensive support, we are here to help you turn your goals into reality. Contact us online or call +1 (239) 747-0056 to get started today.