I'm 15 and i want to be a commercial pilot. What is the best way to get into it?

Question

Hi, i really wan't to be a pilot and i know there are some bad points going through the training, i'm in the air cadets which will hopefully help but i just want to know how to get into the training and things. Also, are there much requirements, like grades for school subjects, health etc..

Answer 1

Its very difficult to get into, because there are less sponsored training programmes than there used to be. Being in the cadets is a good start i reckon. save up cash and get your ppl (private licence)  ASAP. Maths, physics, and engineering subjects are good academic grounding. Then apply to the major operators. Standards for training entry will be very high due to competition. Many people finance their own training these days with big loans. expect it to cost around 70,000 pounds (138000 dollars). Alternatively you could fly in the military.

Answer 2

It depends on time / money.  The military will be the cheapest, however there is not a guarantee that you will be able to fly once you sign up.  If you are interested in the military I would highly recommend getting your private license and then joining.  I have heard that getting your private pilot's license will put you higher on the list to fly.  

If you want to get everything privately there are many different schools to pick from.  Since you are already a cadet ask one of the officers to recommend a flight school in your area.  Once you turn 17 you can take the check ride to get your private pilot’s license.  You can start training before, but I would not start too early.  

Decide if you want to get college credit or just your ratings.  There is such a shortage of pilots right now that having your college degree is not a requirement to be hired, however it is a good idea to get.  When applying for the major airlines down the road, you will be much better off with one.  

A lot of people go to a college where they get their ratings and then start instructing.  It is a great part time job while in college.  You will be paid well, and gaining hours / experience.  By doing the college route, you will be able to pay for training gradually.  However, it typically is more expensive then places such as ATP where all your ratings cost one flat fee.  I believe now it is around $50K.

Try the link below.  It is a discussion forum for pilots / students / anyone interested or involved in aviation.  You will be able to find anything you wanted to know plus more.

Good luck!