Tips about pilot training you can’t afford to miss!
Flying across the world at the controls of some of the most sophisticated aircraft in existence, is, for many, a dream job. But the road to a pilot career is not an easy one, with many hurdles to be overcome. Here are some top tips to get you started.
1. Ask yourself: “Why do I want to become a pilot?”
The challenges to reach the cockpit will vary from person to person. Some may face financial challenges on the road to their career, some may struggle with exams and the intensity of pilot training, while some may not enjoy the lifestyle, which often means being away from your family and friends, sometimes missing important occasions due to airline rosters or unpredictable shifts.
So before you even consider embarking on any kind of pilot training, make sure you’re choosing the career for the right reasons. Is aviation your passion? Are you just doing it because you think a pilot’s job is glamorous? Are you pursuing a career because the pay is good? Do you want to wear a smart uniform?
The truth is, while many pilots love their jobs (and their uniforms!), the job does not hold the glamour it once had, with longer hours and changes in airline attitudes, demanding a lot from pilots. Also consider that while starting salaries are traditionally higher than other professions, many pilots will also have taken on loans to cover their pilot training, and so may have to factor in repayments when calculating their starting salary.
Remember, the question “Why do you want to be a pilot?” is one you’ll surely be asked at a pilot job interview, so make sure you’re certain about your answer.
2. Do your research
This links to the first tip; make sure to find out everything about the profession that you can. Get close to airplanes, talk to pilots who have already been through training – most pilots will be all too happy to share their own experience and pass on advice to help you. Find the flight training school that best suits your needs and has positive reviews from its graduates. This is a big step, and you want to make a good decision. After you apply and are accepted, there is more to do. Get in touch with Star Educare and ask all the questions you need to until you have a full picture of a pilot’s life, the highlights, and challenges, the lifestyle, salary, and training.
Find out about the different routes to your Air Transport Pilots’ Licence (ATPL). The two main routes are called Integrated and Modular. The first is a full-time course of study, generally lasting around 15-18 months. This takes a student from a complete beginner to a position where they are ready to take up a role as a commercial pilot. In contrast, the Modular route can be done at the student’s own pace, module by module, as time and money allow. What’s more, in most cases the cost is substantially less than Integrated, as you can train in ‘blocks’, allowing the cost to be spread over a longer period, even allowing you to return to work between modules. Both routes will give you the same license, so make sure to research which route would be best for your career goals and situation.
Also be aware that in the current climate with few airlines offering sponsored schemes, becoming a commercial pilot is a huge financial commitment. Shop around a wide variety of training schools, consider all the different routes, and finally, gain experience.
3. Get your pilot medical
Before signing on the dotted line for any kind of commercial pilot training, you should look into obtaining your initial Class 1 Medical, which is necessary for anyone wishing to train for a commercial or airline transport pilot license. Don’t commit any finances to a full-time course before you’re sure you’re medically fit to fly a commercial aircraft.
And don’t be fooled by some of the myths such as, ‘I can’t be a professional pilot because I wear glasses.’ Contrary to popular belief, you can fly commercial aircraft wearing glasses or contact lenses, as long as your vision is correctable to 20/20. You can expect the medical examination to take up to four hours. It examines your medical history, eyesight, general physical check, hearing, heart rhythm, lung function, as well as including blood and urine tests.
4. Safeguard your investment
Paying for your professional flight training is one of the most expensive investments you’ll ever make. Whichever route you choose, you’re going to want to make sure that your investment is secure. So what steps should you take?
Once again, research is key. Find out everything you can about your chosen pilot training school – How long have they been training? What links do they have with major airlines? Does your chosen school offer a payment protection program? Remember, throughout your training, keep your eyes on the bigger picture, in terms of the financial position of your chosen training school and the industry in general. And don’t forget the old saying: if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
5. Finally, don’t give up
The final tip is to keep going. Whichever training route you choose, there is no easy way to the cockpit but keep in mind that once you get there, the view from the office window is pretty special. Really, the one thing an aspiring pilot needs above all else is dedication, both when researching cost options or studying for a pilot’s license. If you have that, learning to fly is remarkably within reach.
Are you ready to turn your dream into a reality and pursue a career as a commercial pilot? You probably have more questions now that you’ve learned how easy it is to become a commercial pilot. We, at Star Educare, would love to answer any questions you have and help you navigate your aviation career path, so we encourage you to contact us and let us know how we can help.