Become a Pilot
There's no single path into aviation. Here's a plain-English overview of the main routes, so you can see where you might fit.
One of the very best ways into aviation — and far cheaper than powered flying. Joining a gliding club puts you in a lovely club environment where everyone mucks in, and it's a wonderful way to find out whether aviation is for you. Many young people start gliding before they're old enough for a powered pilot's licence, though the minimum ages vary from country to country.
Often the most accessible way into the air. Many countries have a lighter-weight licence or certificate for flying smaller aircraft, usually with some limits on where and with whom you can fly. A wonderful way to discover whether flying is for you.
A private pilot licence lets you fly for pleasure, take friends and family, and travel further afield. It's also the foundation most professional pilots build upon. You can't be paid to fly with it, but you'll gain skills and confidence that last a lifetime.
Commercial licences open the door to paid flying — airlines, charter, instructing, aerial work and more. The airline route usually also involves an instrument rating, multi-engine training and theory exams. Some people train step by step; others join an integrated course.
Most countries train their own military pilots, and many airline pilots began their careers in uniform. Entry is usually through an Air Force, though Navies fly fixed-wing aircraft and Armies often fly helicopters. Selection is highly competitive, and the requirements — age, fitness, eyesight, citizenship, officer entry and a long service commitment — differ from country to country, so check with your own Armed Forces.
Names, privileges and requirements for each licence vary from country to country and change over time. Always check the current rules with your national aviation authority before making decisions.
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