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Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree
While a college degree is not always required to get started in this career field, the BLS reports that airline pilots are required to have a Bachelor's degree, which can be in any major. However, aspiring pilots can gain more relevant knowledge by enrolling in an aviation or aeronautics Bachelors programme. Regardless of major, students must complete coursework in physics, aeronautical engineering, mathematics, and English. It's important to enroll in an aviation or aeronautics programme that has been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Step 2: Acquire Flight Experience
Aspiring airline pilots are required to complete a certain number of hours of flight training to qualify for licensure. To obtain a commercial pilot's license, 250 hours of flight time - in addition to 1,500 hours of flight time for an airline transport pilot certificate - is required. Flight training can be completed through degree programs or through flying schools approved by the FAA. Airline pilots must also have a minimum of 40 hours of instrument flying experience in-air and through simulation. Instrument flying ratings demonstrate a pilot's ability to fly in low visibility conditions.
Step 4: Gain Professional Experience
Many airline companies require pilots to take physical, psychological and aptitude tests, as well as drug tests, as a prerequisite for employment. Once hired, pilots are generally required to undergo an additional 6-8 weeks of training, including at least 25 hours of flight time. Additionally, most new hires are brought on as co-pilots. It's also not uncommon for some pilots to start their career at small commuter or regional airline companies. This gives them the opportunity to gain more flying experience before being hired by a major airline.
Step 5: Advance as an Airline Pilot
Most advancement in this field is based on seniority, but pilots can reach the rank of captain through other means. Airline pilots can obtain an air transport pilot's license, which shows cross-country, night, and instrument flying experience. This requires passing additional FAA written and practical exams. Pilots may also aim to acquire more flight ratings. Typically, ratings directly correlate to the type of aircraft one can fly, such as a multi-engine jet.