STARTING AN AIRLINE CAREER

You’ll need a commercial pilot’s license to hire out as a pilot; the FAA requires a minimum of 250 flight hours. In addition, you need an instrument rating that allows you to fly in low visibility, in clouds, and adverse weather. If you intend to fly airliners or corporate airplanes, you’ll probably need a multi-engine rating.

To be hired for a position as an airline pilot job, you need flight experience. Your experience is based on the number of hours you have flown, the complexity of the airplanes, and the type of flying (day, night, cross-country, and instrument). To apply for an entry-level position with an airline, G&B Flight Academy suggests that you have 800 to 1000 hours of flight time experience.