Commercial pilot training is one of the most intensive and thorough programs that a person can go through. Commercial pilots have to have a high level of technical knowledge and the ability to fly in all kinds of weather conditions, both day and night, over long distances. Not everyone has what it takes to become a commercial pilot.
If you want to learn how to become a commercial pilot and pursue your dream job, then you are in the right place! This article will give you all the ins and outs of becoming a commercial pilot.
What Does A Commercial Pilot Do?
The commercial pilot is responsible for an aircraft’s safe takeoff, flight, and landing. Commercial pilots must be familiar with all aspects of their craft and weather conditions. Before every flight, they must complete a preflight check to verify that everything on the plane is in working order.
There are numerous avenues to becoming a commercial pilot, starting with earning your Recreational pilot’s licence (RPL) first and then Private Pilot Licence (PPL) and eventually Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), or by obtaining a diploma in aviation.
How Do I Become A Commercial Pilot?
Becoming a commercial pilot isn’t easy. It’s a long process that requires a lot of time and dedication. But it will be worth it in the end. To be successful, you’ll need to know what steps to take, how to prepare yourself, and how to make your dream of becoming a commercial pilot a reality.
Sequence of Training
The first step in becoming a commercial pilot is getting your Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL), then Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) and finally the Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL) . The CASA requires that all pilots have at least a commercial pilot’s licence before they can work as commercial pilots.
Hold an instrument rating training
Obtaining an Instrument Rating (IR) allows a pilot to fly safely in more tough conditions. As a result of Instrument Rating training, you can get your pilot’s licence while flying in marginal weather conditions. The IR is a bonus to Private Pilot or Commercial Pilot licence. Pilots with Instrument Rating are authorised to fly using Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). This skill gives new personal and professional prospects.
Theoretical knowledge and training completion
The next step is to complete your training at one of several approved flying schools across Australia. Training lasts for 1 year and includes ground school, flight simulator sessions, and practical flying exercises.
Take the standard English proficiency test
You’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in English by passing an approved English proficiency test. This can be done any time after you’ve been accepted into the course. If you don’t pass this first step, it’s unlikely that you’ll get the licence because English is important for communicating with air traffic control and other pilots in flight.
Pass the CPL theory exam
To become a commercial pilot, the next thing you’ll need to do is pass the CPL theory exam.
When preparing for a CPL, you’ll study topics like:
● Air law
● Meteorology
● Aerodynamics
● Navigation
● Aircraft General Knowledge
● Performance and Flight Planning
● Human Factors
Build your hours and get a commercial pilot licence
A commercial pilot’s licence requires applicants to be at least 18 years old. This also requires the successful completion of an integrated or non-integrated CPL curriculum. The integrated training entails 150 flying hours, whereas the non-integrated course entails 200.
Pass the CPL flying exam
The last step to becoming a commercial pilot is passing your CPL (Commercial Pilot licence) flight test. You’ll have to show that you can handle the controls of an aircraft without assistance from another person.
Get familiar with job opportunities in your area as a commercial pilot
The role of a commercial pilot can vary depending on the type of aircraft they’re flying, but they’re always in charge of taking you safely from one place to another.
Some prospective pilots clearly know where they want their careers, but most do not. A list of possible career paths open to those with a pilot’s licence follows.
● Flight Instructor
● Cargo pilot
● Survey pilot
● Charter pilot
● Corporate pilot
Takeaway
The road to becoming a commercial pilot is long and difficult, but the rewards are worth it.
If you work hard, dedicate yourself to your commercial pilot training, and stay focused on your goals, you, too, can be one of the many people who have changed their lives for the better by becoming a commercial pilot!