Best way to get commercial pilot license

ADVANCE FLYING ACADEMY

The best way to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) depends on your personal circumstances, goals, and budget. There are several paths you can take, and the right one for you will depend on your preferences and resources. Below are the main routes you can follow to get your CPL, along with some tips on how to make the process as efficient and cost-effective as possible.

1. Integrated Training Programs (Full-Time)

What It Is: An integrated CPL program is a structured, full-time training program that takes you from no flying experience to a fully qualified commercial pilot. This route combines all necessary training phases into one seamless course, often with a fixed cost and duration.
Duration: Typically 12-18 months.
Best For: Individuals who want to complete their training quickly and are able to commit full-time to flying school.
Pros:
- Fast-paced, focused training with an organized curriculum.
- Often includes all the necessary ratings and exams.
- You may be eligible for financing through the flight school.
Cons:
- More expensive due to the intensive nature and the need for full-time study.
- Little room for flexibility, as you’ll be expected to complete the program in a set time.
Example Schools:
- Oxford Aviation Academy (UK), ATP Flight School (US), CAE (Canada).

2. Modular Training Program (Part-Time)

What It Is: A modular approach allows you to break down your training into individual stages, such as Private Pilot License (PPL), time-building, and CPL. You can progress at your own pace and pay as you go.
Duration: Can vary significantly depending on how many hours you fly each week and how long you take to complete each module.
Best For: Those who need more flexibility, have other commitments (e.g., work or school), or wish to spread the costs over a longer period.
Pros:
- Flexible scheduling, allowing you to balance other obligations.
- You can take the training one step at a time and only pay for each phase as you go.
- Potential for lower overall costs if you already have flying experience.
Cons:
- Longer time to complete the training compared to integrated programs.
- You may need to arrange your own flight hours and build time on your own.
Example Schools:
- Flight Schools in the US, UK, Australia that offer modular CPL courses.

3. Farming Flight Hours (Time-Building)

What It Is: After completing your Private Pilot License (PPL), you need to accumulate a certain number of flight hours to qualify for the CPL. Many pilots choose to "build hours" through a job like banner towing, flight instructing, or flying for smaller operators.
Duration: Varies depending on the type of flying job or time-building opportunities you have.
Best For: Individuals who want to reduce the overall cost of training or work while building experience.
Pros:
- Opportunity to gain real-world flight experience while earning income.
- Can reduce training costs if you already have a job that provides flight hours.
Cons:
- Takes time and effort to accumulate flight hours.
- You may need to take low-paying jobs or volunteer to build the necessary flight hours.
Common Jobs for Time-Building:
- Flight instructing, Banner towing, Aerial photography, or Regional pilot jobs.

4. Flying in Countries with Lower Training Costs

What It Is: Some countries, like South Africa, Philippines, and New Zealand, are known for having lower training costs due to favorable exchange rates and affordable living costs. You can complete your CPL training in these countries and then convert your license to an internationally recognized one.
Duration: Typically similar to the U.S. or European training programs but cheaper.
Best For: Those looking to save money on flight training and don’t mind traveling abroad.
Pros:
- Significant cost savings compared to training in places like the U.S. or the UK.
- Ideal for international students or those willing to relocate temporarily.
Cons:
- You may need to convert your foreign license to a local one, which can require additional testing.
- Travel and living expenses may offset some of the savings.
Example Countries: South Africa, Philippines, New Zealand, Australia.

5. Scholarships and Sponsorships

What It Is: Some organizations, aviation companies, or governments offer scholarships or sponsorships to help cover the cost of CPL training. This is often in exchange for a commitment to work for the sponsoring airline or organization.
Duration: Depends on the program, but generally similar to other CPL training paths.
Best For: People looking for financial assistance and willing to commit to a post-training job.
Pros:
- Can significantly reduce or eliminate the cost of training.
- Often includes guaranteed job placement with the sponsoring company.
Cons:
- May come with stringent eligibility requirements.
- You might be bound by a contract to work for the sponsor for a certain period.
Example Programs:
- JetBlue Pilot Gateway Program, Airline-sponsored programs, AOPA Scholarships.

6. Military Pathway (If Applicable)

What It Is: Some pilots choose to go through the military to receive their flight training. This path provides a thorough training program that often includes a CPL and other ratings, with the added benefit of valuable flight hours and experience.
Duration: Varies depending on the branch and the country, but can take several years.
Best For: Those who are interested in serving in the military and are looking for structured flight training with a guaranteed income and benefits.
Pros:
- Comprehensive training and flight experience.
- Often provides financial support for education and housing.
Cons:
- Long commitment to the military, sometimes several years.
- Limited freedom regarding the type of flying you can do during your service.

Steps to Obtain a CPL (Regardless of Path)

Obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL): This is the foundational license before you can pursue a CPL.
Accumulate Flight Hours: Most CPL programs require a minimum of 200 hours of flight time (though this can vary slightly based on the country’s regulations).
Complete Ground School: This includes studying subjects like aviation law, meteorology, navigation, and flight theory.
Undergo Flight Training: This will include both in-flight training and time in a flight simulator.
Pass the Written Exam: Most countries require a written knowledge exam to demonstrate your understanding of aviation principles.
Pass the Medical Examination: A Class 1 medical certificate is required to ensure you are fit to fly commercially.
Complete a Check Ride: After completing your training, you will need to pass a flight test (check ride) with a certified examiner.

Conclusion

The best way to obtain a CPL depends on your budget, goals, and timeline. If you are looking for speed and structure, an integrated program might be the best choice. If you prefer flexibility and spreading out the costs, a modular program may suit you better. Time-building can be cost-effective if you can find opportunities for paid or volunteer flying. For those looking to minimize costs, training abroad or pursuing scholarships can be great options.

Ultimately, the best approach is one that aligns with your career aspirations, financial situation, and personal circumstances.

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