What is the best way to get into flying without the military?

Question

i want to get into flying but dont really want to go into the military. so with that said what would be the fastest and cheapest way to become a pilot of any sort

Answer 1

Lot's of local airports have schools that can teach you. Also they can point you in the right direction. Some small airplane pilots teach flying lessons also. Check around your area or even do a search on yahoo or google for flying lessons near your area

Answer 2

just go to your local "Learn to Fly Here" location and tell them that you would like to go on an introductory flight to find out if you really want to do it.

that what i did and loved it. i started taking lessons at 15, soloed on my 16 birthday, got my license when i was 17.

if you go the gliding route, you can start at the age of 14.

have fun!!!!!!!!!!1

Answer 3

depending on your age and if still young enough for cadets, join air cadets otherwise it is a matter of paying for flying lessons but a gliding club is cheaper than powered aircraft

Answer 4

You don't mention whether you are interested in personal flying or a career as a pilot.  As you mention the military as a rejected option, one could assume you are interested in becoming a professional pilot.

Start with that introductory lesson, and talk over your local options with the instructor that you fly with that day.  That person will know the local flight schools and programs in your area.

To be a professional pilot, you will need a college degree.  Don't believe the people who tell you you really won't, because you really will.

You will also need your Commercial Airman Certificate (It's still called that, even if you are a girl) with multi-engine and instrument ratings and CFI (flight instructor) ratings.  At that point you will have spent about $15,000-$25,000 and you can start flying for hire.

Expect to spend another 5-10 years building the hours to apply to the regional airlines.  A shortcut is to fly cargo.  If you work it out right, you may be able to start with fewer hours flying heavy machinery, which looks good on your log when you start applying to the airlines.

All in all, the best way to learn your path to success is to start flying and join in the talk with pilots.  They will help you if you ask politely.

Good luck.

Answer 5

Honestly, military flight training is very difficult to get.  Civilian flying is far more open.  Military requires a 4 year college degree, civilian does not.  However, as Aviophage said, getting an airline job without one will be very difficult.  Her answer is the best, so I don't need to add anymore.