Dreams of flying like a bird are extremely common but not many people turn that dream into a reality. By becoming a pilot, you can make the sky your domain and join the birds.

Have you ever said to yourself or your friends, “I want to be a pilot”? It takes skill and dedication but anyone can pursue this profession.

If you’re wondering how to become a pilot, keep reading for a simple career guide.

1. Make Sure It’s Your Calling

The last thing you want to do is pursue something only to discover that it’s not for you. Instead of jumping into training to become a pilot, you can go on a discovery flight.

For around $200, you can fly with a pilot at the helm. If you’re feeling brave, the pilot will allow you to test out the controls once you’re safely in the air. The pilot will also be able to answer any questions you have about the job.

If you’re in love with the experience, then you can feel confident that you’re on the right track.

2. Excel at Math

As it turns out, there’s a lot of math involved with flying. The sooner you can sharpen your math skills, the better. If you’re still in high school, then now is the time to double down.

Your high marks will make you a stronger candidate. While a college degree isn’t strictly necessary to become a pilot, you’ll need at least a high school diploma.

3. Go to Flight School

Getting an education at a college level can help you stand out from the crowd of people who want to be pilots, but it’s not 100% required. However, flight school is unavoidable.

There are a lot of different programs out there, so you need to find one that works best for you. For instance, you’ll need to decide if you want to be an airline pilot, a private pilot, or a commercial pilot.

You can also pursue flight education through a college program, an airline cadet program, or even the military.

4. Get Your Certificates

What do you need to become a pilot? You’ll have to remember to get a student pilot certificate and a medical certificate. You may need additional certificates, such as a private pilot certificate or a commercial pilot certificate, depending on what type of pilot you want to be.

If you want to know how to be a pilot for a commercial airline, for instance, you’ll need an airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate. To get the ATP, you’ll need to log a total of 1,500 hours of flight time. You’ll also need to complete a training program and pass ATP examinations.

If you’re diligent and work hard, you can even become a pilot at the age of 17. To learn more about flying a plane, visit flightliteracy.com.

Now You Know How to Become a Pilot

With this simple career guide, you know how to become a pilot. The skies are waiting for you.

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