Here’s a comprehensive guide covering pilot training programs, courses, certifications, licenses, and pilot programs—along with their eligibility criteria and step-by-step processes on how to become a pilot.
1. List of Pilot Training Programs
Pilot training programs prepare you for different types of pilot licenses and certifications.
Training Program
Eligibility
How to Become
Private Pilot Training (PPL)
Age: 17+
Join an FAA, EASA, or DGCA-approved flight school. Complete 35–40 flight hours and pass a written & practical test.
Commercial Pilot Training (CPL)
Age: 18+, PPL
Complete ground school, 200–250 flight hours, and pass the CPL exam.
Instrument Rating (IR) Training
PPL Required
Focus on flying in low visibility conditions using instruments. Requires 50+ flight hours.
Multi-Engine Rating (MER)
CPL Required
Train on multi-engine aircraft. Typically takes 10–20 flight hours.
Flight Instructor Training (CFI)
CPL Required
Learn teaching techniques and pass the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) exam.
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)
Age: 23+, CPL
Required for airline captains. Complete 1,500 flight hours and pass the ATP exam.
Night Rating Training
PPL Required
Focus on night flying operations.
Helicopter Pilot Training
Age: 17+
Specific training for rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters).
2. List of Pilot Courses (with Eligibility & Steps)
Course Name
Eligibility
How to Become
Bachelor of Science in Aviation
High school diploma or equivalent
Enroll in universities like Embry-Riddle or Purdue for aviation-focused degrees with pilot training.
Diploma in Aviation (Pilot Program)
High school diploma
Offered by CAE Oxford and other institutions. Provides integrated CPL training.
Private Pilot License (PPL) Course
Age: 17+
Join an approved flight school and complete 35–40 flight hours.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Course
Age: 18+, PPL Required
Complete 200–250 flight hours and pass written and practical exams.
Integrated ATPL Course
High school diploma
Combines PPL, CPL, and ATPL in a fast-track program.
Instrument Rating (IR) Course
PPL Required
Focus on instrument navigation and pass the IR exam.
Multi-Engine Rating Course
PPL or CPL Required
Train on multi-engine aircraft.
Flight Instructor (CFI) Course
CPL Required
Learn instructional techniques and flight maneuvers for teaching new pilots.
3. List of Pilot Certifications (Eligibility & Steps)
Certification Name
Eligibility
How to Become
FAA Private Pilot Certification
Age: 17+, Medical Certificate
Enroll in an FAA-approved school, complete flight hours, and pass the test.
FAA Commercial Pilot Certification
Age: 18+, PPL Required
Complete CPL training, 250+ hours, and pass the FAA test.
Instrument Rating Certification
PPL Required
Train in instrument navigation and pass the instrument test.
Multi-Engine Rating Certification
CPL or PPL Required
Complete multi-engine training and pass the multi-engine check ride.
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Certification
CPL Required
Complete CFI training and pass the Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) and practical exams.
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certification
CPL, 1,500+ hours
Complete ATP ground school and pass the written and practical exams.
4. List of Pilot Licenses (Eligibility & Steps)
License Name
Eligibility
How to Obtain
Private Pilot License (PPL)
Age: 17+, Medical Certificate
Complete 35–40 hours of flight training and pass the exam.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Age: 18+, PPL, Class 1 Medical
Complete 200–250 flight hours and pass the CPL exam.
Instrument Rating (IR)
PPL Required
Complete instrument training and pass the IR exam.
Multi-Engine Rating (MER)
CPL or PPL Required
Complete multi-engine training and pass the practical test.
Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) License
CPL Required
Pass the CFI exam and practical check ride.
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)
CPL, Age: 23+, 1,500+ hours
Required for airline captains. Complete ATP training and pass the exam.
5. Types of Pilot Programs (Eligibility & Steps)
Pilot Program Type
Eligibility
How to Enroll & Become a Pilot
Integrated Pilot Program
High school diploma
Combines PPL, CPL, and ATPL in one continuous course (18–24 months). Offered by CAE, L3Harris, etc.
Modular Pilot Program
PPL Required
Allows you to complete each step (PPL → IR → CPL → ATPL) separately at your own pace.
Airline Cadet Pilot Program
High school diploma, Medical
Sponsored programs by airlines such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa.
Helicopter Pilot Program
Age: 17+
Specific training for rotary-wing aircraft. Offered by universities and flight schools.
Multi-Crew Pilot License (MPL) Program
High school diploma
Focuses on airline crew training from the beginning. Offered by CAE Oxford and other leading academies.
Want a detailed guide on how to enroll in any specific program, course duration, fees, or top institutes? Let me know! 😊✈️