If you’ve been dreaming of becoming a pilot, you must take the necessary steps to obtain your aviation certification. Experts say becoming a qualified pilot is no small feat, but with some hard work and dedication, it can become a reality. Here we will go over the steps you need to take to get your aviation certification.
Step One: Get Your Medical Certificate
The first step on the road toward obtaining an aviation certificate is getting a medical certificate. This certificate will be issued by an aviation medical examiner who assesses applicants’ physical and mental fitness for flying. There are three different classes of medical certificates, and depending on what type of flight you plan on doing (commercial or recreational), specific requirements may vary. As such, it is crucial that you research which class of medical certificate you need to fly in your chosen capacity.
Step Two: Sign Up For Ground School Courses
Ground school courses are designed to teach students about the basics of aerodynamics, aircraft systems, navigation, weather theory, and other related topics. Depending on where you live, various ground schools offer classes specifically designed for aspiring pilots. Additionally, if classroom instruction isn’t for you, then there are also online options available as well. Before signing up for any ground school courses, however, potential students must research beforehand, so they know exactly what they are signing up for.
Step Three: Take Flight Training & Pass Your Tests
Once students have completed their ground school courses, they will begin taking flight training lessons to gain experience behind the wheel of an airplane or helicopter (depending on which one they opt to learn). During these lessons, students will learn how to control the aircraft while under varying conditions as well as how to handle emergencies should they arise while in flight. Toward the end of their training, students must pass their written and practical tests with an FAA-certified instructor before receiving their aviation certification.
Step Four: Keep Up With Continuing Education Requirements
As with many professions, pilots must keep up with continuing education requirements to maintain their certifications and stay current with changing regulations within the industry. Typically, this involves attending seminars or workshops every two years, although certain specialties may require additional maintenance checks depending on factors such as age, hours flown, etc. All pilots must stay informed about staying compliant with their continuing education requirements to remain active pilots without interruption.
What Happens After You Obtain Your Aviation Certification?
After obtaining your aviation certification, you can begin flying professionally or recreationally. Depending on which route you choose and what type of aircraft you plan on piloting, additional steps may need to be taken to obtain your license or endorsement. But overall, once a candidate has completed their flight training, passed all of the necessary tests, and received their medical certificate, they are officially ready to fly!
Getting Hired as a Pilot
Now that you have your aviation certification, it’s time to start looking for work. Depending on the type of flying you plan (commercial or recreational), there are different avenues to explore to get hired as a pilot. Commercial pilots typically look for jobs through airlines and other flight services, while recreational pilots can seek work ranging from charter services to banner towing and agricultural aviation. Whatever path you choose, make sure to do your research ahead of time in order to understand what type of certifications or endorsements you may need before applying for any jobs.
Making Sure You Understand the Responsibilities of a Pilot
Finally, all aspiring pilots must understand the immense responsibility of flying an aircraft. As a pilot, you are responsible for not only your safety but the safety of those on board and even those on the ground who could be affected by your actions. Understanding this ahead of time and entering the field with a safety-first approach is key to a successful and fulfilling career in aviation.
The Benefits Of Being A Pilot
Piloting an aircraft is a rewarding and exciting career, but it also comes with its own set of benefits. From the sense of freedom and adventure to the possibility of meeting new people and exploring new places, there’s no shortage of reasons why becoming a pilot can be beneficial. On top of that, pilots often have the potential to make a significant income as they gain experience in their field and command higher salaries with more advanced certifications. Overall, becoming a pilot is a great way to challenge yourself professionally and reap the rewards of an exciting career.
Obtaining your aviation certification requires dedication and hard work, but it can be done if you take the steps outlined here today. Start by getting your medical certificate, followed by signing up for ground school courses and taking flight training lessons until you pass your tests with flying colors! Finally, all pilots must keep up with continuing education requirements, so their skills always remain sharp and up-to-date! With some dedication and determination getting your aviation certification can become a reality!
