How to Become a Pilot: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

The pilot licence pathway

Becoming a licensed pilot is one of the most structured and rewarding career paths in aviation. Whether your goal is a Sunday afternoon flight in a Cessna 172 or an airline captain seat on a Boeing 737, the route is well-defined — you just need to know where to start.

The basic progression for most aspiring commercial pilots is: Private Pilot Licence (PPL) → Instrument Rating (IR) → Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) → Multi-Engine Rating (MEP) → Frozen ATPL → First Officer job → Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL).

Step 1: Choose your aviation authority

Your authority determines which licence you hold, which exams you take, and which airlines you can fly for. The two main systems are EASA (used across the European Union and many other countries) and the FAA (United States). Your country of residence typically determines your starting authority, though you can convert licences later.

If you live in the EU, you'll study under EASA. If you're in the US, you'll work toward FAA certificates. If you're in the UK, India, Australia, China, or another country, there is a specific national authority — Aviation Infinity covers all 33.

Step 2: Pass your Class 1 or Class 2 Medical

Before investing in training, get your medical examination done. For a PPL you need a Class 2 medical. For a commercial career, you need a Class 1, which has stricter standards for vision, hearing, and cardiovascular health.

The medical is conducted by an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) designated by your authority. Under EASA, this is an Aeromedical Centre (AeMC) or designated AME. Under the FAA, this is an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

Step 3: Complete your PPL theory

The PPL theory exam covers 9 subjects under EASA: Air Law, Aircraft General Knowledge, Flight Performance and Planning, Human Performance, Meteorology, Navigation, Operational Procedures, Principles of Flight, and Communications.

The FAA Private Pilot written test (PAR) covers similar topics but is formatted differently — 60 questions from the Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement, with a minimum passing score of 70%.

• Air Law and ATC Procedures
• Aircraft General Knowledge and Principles of Flight
• Meteorology
• Navigation and Flight Planning
• Human Performance and Limitations
• Communications (VFR)
• Operational Procedures

Step 4: Complete your flight training

EASA PPL requires a minimum of 45 hours of flight time, including at least 25 hours of dual instruction and 10 hours solo. The FAA requires 40 hours minimum, including 20 hours of flight training and 10 hours solo.

You'll train at an approved flight training organisation (FTO or ATOA under EASA, Part 61 or Part 141 school under FAA). Typical PPL training takes 12–18 months depending on weather, availability, and budget.

Step 5: Build hours and ratings toward CPL/ATPL

Once you have your PPL, you have two main routes to a commercial licence: the integrated route (full-time, 18–24 months, expensive but faster) or the modular route (study and train at your own pace, cheaper but longer).

The integrated route takes you directly from zero to a frozen ATPL with a Multi-Engine IR in around 18 months. The modular route builds skills in stages: PPL → Night Rating → IR → CPL → MEP → ATPL theory. Most students take 3–5 years via the modular route.

How much does it cost to become a pilot?

PPL training typically costs €7,000–€12,000 in Europe, or $8,000–$15,000 in the US depending on the school, aircraft type, and local conditions. A full integrated ATPL programme with a reputable European flight school costs €70,000–€100,000. Modular ATPL training is typically €40,000–€60,000 spread over several years.

The investment is significant but manageable with planning. Many students use a combination of savings, pilot financing schemes, and cadet programmes offered by airlines.