Getting Started
Start your journey to becoming a airline pilot. Explore the pathways to joining the profession, the qualifications you'll need, and everything else it takes to launch a rewarding career in the skies.
Your Journey to Becoming an Airline Pilot
Becoming an airline pilot is a rewarding journey that allows you to explore the world and make a meaningful impact on people's lives. There are many paths to reaching your dream of flying professionally, and each one offers unique opportunities to grow and succeed.
The road to the flight deck requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance—but the rewards are truly worth it. Though the process may take time, you'll gain the skills and confidence to succeed in this extraordinary career. Anyone with a passion for aviation and the commitment to succeed can achieve their dream of becoming a pilot.
Becoming an Airline Pilot in the U.S.
Civilian Pathway to Becoming a Pilot—U.S.
The civilian path offers exciting opportunities to become a professional airline pilot through specialized flight training programs and certificate courses.
Military Pathway to Becoming a Pilot—U.S.
The military offers a unique, structured path that equips you with invaluable skills and flight hours, setting you up for success in the airline industry.
Qualifications & Training to Become an Airline Pilot—U.S.
Qualifications and training required to become an airline pilot include certifications, flight experience, and FAA requirements for commercial aviation.
Becoming an Airline Pilot in Canada
Civilian Pathway to Becoming a Pilot—Canada
The civilian path in Canada offers exciting opportunities to become a professional airline pilot through approved training programs.
Military Pathway to Becoming a Pilot—Canada
The military path to becoming an airline pilot in Canada offers a structured, immersive route to the flight deck through the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Qualifications & Training to Become an Airline Pilot—Canada
Learn what it takes to become an airline pilot in Canada. Explore the qualifications, training, and career paths for each type of operation.
Additional Resources for Future Pilots
Hiring Requirements for Airline Pilots
You need more than a license—airlines look for skill, experience, passion.
Aviation Terms
Learn common aviation terms and lingo to better understand the profession.
FAQ for Aspiring Airline Pilots
Get answers to commonly asked questions about careers in aviation.
Bring a Pilot to Your School
Want to hear about life as an airline pilot? ALPA pilots volunteer their time to provide interactive presentations for schools. Inspire your students about aviation—bring an ALPA pilot to your school!
Become an Airline Pilot
Anyone with a passion for aviation and the desire to fly can pursue a career as an airline pilot.
Types of Pilot Jobs
From flying passengers to putting out fires, the piloting profession offers a diverse range of career paths.
A Day in the Life
Five ALPA members share their unique experiences flying for different types of carriers.
Career Outlook
Discover who’s hiring, how much pilots earn, and the types of piloting jobs available.