How to Become a Pilot
Becoming a pilot may sound fun and exciting, but many people don’t realize how much hard work it really is. Being pilot requires a lot of strict standards, and of course, proper training!
Aircraft
The training you need to receive and your license depends on the aircraft you wish to fly. These include:
Helicopters
Airplanes
Gyroplanes
Gliders
Balloons
Airships
Ultralight vehicles do not need a pilot’s license.
License
pilotAgain, your pilot license depends on what training you take for which aircraft. The requirements to attain the license also vary according to what kind of pilot you wish to be. Eligibility, experience and training are all important when issuing pilot licenses, whether it be for a student pilot, a recreational pilot or a private pilot.
For recreational and private pilots, you must be no less than 17 years old before training and getting a license to become a pilot. You will be required to pass a written and practical exam.
Professional pilots have a more rigorous process which vary with different organizations. Check the standard requirements for your particular kind of pilot licensure as well as the requirements of the organization you wish to join.
Training
You must be at least 17 years old before attempting to learn how to fly.
You can visit Learntofly.com, a website that has a database of Cessna Pilot Centers in your area.
You can then call or visit the flight schools that are near you or the ones that you can afford. Compare different flight schools and their programs.
Once you’ve chosen the flight school for you, call them up and make an appointment for your introductory lesson as soon as possible.
If the weather is good, you can get started with an introductory flight right away! Your instructor is a Certified Flight instructor and he or she can answer your questions.
The introductory flight will give you a real taste and feel of what it is to manipulate a flying vehicle.