A Guide to Different Types Of Pilot Licenses

Similar to how most people need a driver’s license to drive their car, pilots also need a license to fly an aircraft. If you are an aspiring pilot who wants to become a licensed pilot, you will need to go through a lot of training and testing. They are put into place to guarantee the safety of everyone on board. Put simply, a pilot license is an official certification that permits a person to fly an aircraft.

The license is granted after the individual successfully passes a series of tests and meets all the set requirements. The license clearly shows the specific type of aircraft the pilot is permitted to fly. It also indicates any possible restrictions or limitations on the flying privileges the person has. So, if you are looking to become licensed, it is important to first learn the types of licenses. Here is the guide to different types of pilot licenses.

1. Commercial Pilot

Having a commercial pilot license (CPL) means that you will be able to earn by offering flying services. This type of license permits pilots to fly for hire. However, many people have the misconception that pilots with a CPL can fly commercial airlines. Even though a CPL allows you to become a professional, you will need to acquire additional licenses to fly commercial airlines. Pilots can get their first job once they get a commercial pilot license. Except for airlines, pilots can work in several different piloting jobs.

2. Private Pilot

The private pilot license (PPL) is certainly the very first license that most pilots obtain. Put simply, it permits the individual to serve as a pilot in command of a particular aircraft privately. Getting a PPL can be considered the primary step towards pursuing the dream of becoming an airline pilot. PPL is the most common license because the training is way more intensive in comparison to some other options. It is true that people who have PPL can fly at night in controlled airspaces.

They can fly the aircraft they are allowed, which is usually a small single engine aircraft. It is worth noting that private pilots can never fly for compensation, hire, and commercial purposes. However, getting PPL is still a great option if you want to build the required experience before obtaining the advanced licenses that allow you to work for money and make a living. The skills you learn when flying a small aircraft act as a foundation for flying a larger aircraft later on.

3. Airline Transport Pilot

The airline transport pilot (ATP) is the most advanced license an individual can get. It permits a pilot to be in command of an aircraft that has a specific passenger count. If you want to become a captain with an airline, you will need to have an ATP license. As for the training, it consists of theory classes and the result of completing this course is that you get an ATPL Theory License. Next, the individual needs to have experience of about 1500 flight hours. It will make the pilot eligible to take a practical test for an ATP license.

4. Student Pilot

A student pilot license allows a student to fly a registered aircraft. The important thing to note here is that the student can only do so under the supervision of a licensed instructor. Fly solo is only possible after receiving an endorsement from the instructor. A student pilot is not allowed to act as the Pilot In Command (PIC) of any particular aircraft that is carrying a passenger. Nevertheless, it is still a great option for students. Additionally, if you are a student, it is best to get appropriate training from the best flying and aviation training instructor in Sydney.

Wrapping Up

Pursuing your dream of becoming a pilot can definitely prove to be rewarding. However, it is important to have the required knowledge, which includes knowing the types the pilot licenses that are mentioned in this article.

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