Career roadmap
How to Become an Airline Pilot
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an airline pilot, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an airline pilot: (1) earn a private pilot certificate, (2) earn instrument and commercial ratings, (3) build hours, (4) earn the ATP, (5) join an airline. Most people need about Years of flight training and hours. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an airline pilot
Earn a private pilot certificate
Start training.
Earn instrument and commercial ratings
Advance.
Build hours
Often as a flight instructor.
Earn the ATP
1,500 hours usually.
Join an airline
First officer, then captain.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree is typical, plus FAA pilot certificates and an Airline Transport Pilot certificate.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Years of flight training and hours |
Certifications and licenses
- ATP certificate: Required for airline pilots.
- First-class medical: Required for captains.
- Type rating: Aircraft-specific.
- Instrument and multi-engine ratings: Required steps.
Skills to build now
Start with aircraft operation, navigation, and weather, and practice decision-making and calm under pressure. Learning the airline pilot vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Flight Instructor: Build hours.
- Regional First Officer: Airline entry.
- Major Airline First Officer: Advance.
- Captain: Pilot in command.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Airline Pilot training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do airline pilots need a degree?
Most airlines prefer one.
How long does it take to become an airline pilot?
Most people need about Years of flight training and hours of training. A bachelor’s degree is typical, plus FAA pilot certificates and an Airline Transport Pilot certificate.
Do you need a degree to be an airline pilot?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, and every airline pilot needs an FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which generally requires 1,500 flight hours.
What certifications are available for airline pilots?
Common credentials include ATP certificate, First-class medical, Type rating, and Instrument and multi-engine ratings. Airline pilots need an FAA Airline Transport Pilot certificate and an FAA medical certificate.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-2011 (Airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.