First Steps to Becoming a Commercial Airline Pilot

Written by Rebecca Delaney...Do you dream of soaring through the skies, commanding a massive aircraft, and exploring the world from a whole new perspective? 

Becoming a commercial airline pilot is an exhilarating career choice that offers endless opportunities for adventure, personal growth, and professional fulfilment. If you're a woman or girl with the ambition to take to the skies, this blog is for you. Whether you're starting from scratch or already hold a private pilot's license, let's explore the first steps towards making your dreams a reality.

My own journey as a commercial pilot began at the age of 17, filled with ambition and an unwavering passion for aviation. I took my first steps towards this thrilling career at LAC Flying School in Manchester, where I received a solid foundation in aviation theory and flight training to obtain my private pilots license. Starting young allowed me to develop the necessary skills and knowledge from an early age, setting me on a path to success. 

For those who have already obtained a private pilots license, congratulations on taking that initial leap! Your path to becoming a commercial pilot will be somewhat different, but your experience and skills will undoubtedly give you a head start. Don't worry if you're starting from scratch, though; many pilots begin their journey with no prior experience, and with dedication, anyone can succeed.

To gain invaluable experience, I chose to work in the office of the flying school where I trained for a few months. This gave me exposure to the aviation industry, allowed me to network with professionals, and provided insights into the daily operations of a flight school. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the world of aviation while you work towards your ultimate goal.

To further accumulate flight hours, I decided to build my experience at Blackpool Airport with ANT Flying School. Flight hours are crucial in aviation and building them is an essential step towards becoming a commercial pilot. This stage of your journey will be a thrilling adventure as you navigate the skies, gain confidence in your abilities, and refine your skills under the watchful eye of experienced instructors.

During my journey, I also worked as a passenger service assistant and cabin crew member for Jet2.com. These roles allowed me to interact with passengers, understand the dynamics of the aviation industry, and gain firsthand knowledge of the various operational aspects of an airline. It was a valuable experience that enhanced my understanding of aviation and deepened my passion for pursuing a career as a commercial airline pilot.

Let’s explore the two main routes to becoming a commercial pilot: the integrated and modular routes.

The integrated route involves structured training from a flight school, leading to a commercial pilot's license. This comprehensive program combines theory, simulator training, and practical flight hours to fast-track your journey towards becoming an airline pilot. If you prefer a structured and accelerated approach, the integrated route may be the right choice for you.

On the other hand, the modular route offers a more flexible path. It allows you to obtain individual licenses and ratings gradually, completing each step at your own pace. This route is ideal for those who prefer a more flexible schedule, have financial constraints, or wish to combine training with other commitments such as work or education.

During my training, I initially pursued the modular route. However, after careful consideration, I made the decision to switch to the integrated route at Skyborne UK last year, completing all 13 of the ATPL exams with flying colours, and now I am currently on the flying stage of the course out in Vero Beach, Florida! Going down the integrated route was a personal choice that aligned better with my goals and aspirations. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and it's essential to choose the route that suits you best.

As a female in aviation, you may encounter unique challenges, but don't let them deter you. The aviation industry is evolving, and there are numerous initiatives to encourage more women to pursue careers as pilots. The industry recognises the immense talent and capabilities women bring to the field, and it actively promotes diversity and equality.

Having around 150 hours of total flight time under my belt, I can confidently say that it's crucial to believe in yourself and embrace your passion for aviation. The journey to becoming a commercial airline pilot requires hard work, determination, and resilience. Surround yourself with supportive mentors, join organisations that empower women in aviation, and connect with other aspiring female pilots to share experiences and inspire one another.

While the path to becoming a commercial pilot requires dedication, it's essential to note that academic qualifications are somewhat significant. Most flight schools require GCSE grades C (or equivalent) and above in core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science. Building a strong educational foundation will enhance your understanding of aviation concepts and contribute to your overall success as a pilot. For my A-Levels I did Maths, Further Maths, Physics, and Chemistry and I can most definitely say that they gave me an advantage during my ATPL studies. Again, it doesn’t matter if you don’t have those A-Levels, but it definitely gave me an extra boost during my training as I had some of the background knowledge to help me along the studying. 

Financing your training can be a concern for many aspiring pilots. I funded most of my training with my own money, and it was a worthwhile investment in my future. However, various bursaries and scholarships are available to help fund pilot training. Organisations and flight schools often offer these opportunities, so be sure to research and apply for them. Don't let financial constraints hold you back from pursuing your dreams.

The journey to becoming a commercial airline pilot is an exhilarating adventure filled with endless possibilities. Whether you're starting from scratch or already hold a private pilot's license, the first steps are within your reach. Take the leap, immerse yourself in the world of aviation, and embark on a path that will redefine your horizons. With passion, determination, and unwavering belief in yourself, you can conquer the skies and inspire future generations of women in aviation. Dream big, aim high, and let your ambitions soar!