Have you spent the last few years or decades as a military pilot, flying anything from supersonic fighter aircraft to combat planes and bombers? You probably think you can handle anything. However, you may wonder, “Can a military pilot become a commercial pilot?” Since these aviation careers differ, proper preparation and acclimation are vital.

What Does It Mean To Be a Military Pilot?

Military pilots undertake a variety of important tasks from checking the weather with advanced equipment to developing fight plans and directing crew members while in the air. Therefore, they require a unique skillset alongside strong leadership and teamwork. They also receive rigorous training and discipline that teaches unwavering commitment and responsibility in a high-risk, stressful environment. 

While these skills prove beneficial in all forms of aviation, including commercial flying, commercial pilots have different responsibilities, and preparing for them can be a long-winding process. That’s why it’s crucial to plan ahead and get your affairs in order about three years before you transition to flying as a mode of transportation. 

What Does the Transition Entail?

Below are the steps to take when transitioning from military to commercial aviation. 

Receiving the Proper Licenses 

Your first step depends on your current position. If you’re a rotary military pilot, meaning you fly helicopters and other aircraft with rotating blades, you must obtain a Private Pilot License, which trains in small aircraft navigation. It acts as a prerequisite for an Airline Transport Pilot License, but if you’re a Multi-Engine or Fast Jet pilot, PPL examinations are not necessary. 

Since PPL licenses only allow private flying, meaning you cannot fly for service reasons or compensation, you’ll need to obtain a Commercial Pilot License. With the latter, you can transport passengers or cargo, search and rescue, or conduct aerial surveys. Set a two-year limit when completing these examinations so you’re not struggling to finish toward the end of the three years when you should be job hunting. 

Taking on Transition Programs 

The next step in the process when wondering, “Can a military pilot become a commercial pilot?” is booking flying courses with top schools. Many flight schools in Arizona offer transition programs that help pilots with a military background work toward civilian pilot certifications. They can take fixed-wing transition training and conduct additional ground school training in aerodynamics, navigation, and more. 

These transition programs also include adding flight time to your application since commercial aviation requirements demand more hours in the air. However, before taking courses, consider your specific needs and goals so you aren’t wasting time or money during practical training. 

Submitting Job Applications

Because airlines don’t recruit for long periods, making commercial aviation positions highly competitive, start applying to your desired job prospects while you’re taking training courses. This is especially necessary since it takes the Aviation Authority (CAA) more than ten weeks to process your license after satisfying the requirements. Therefore, don’t wait and miss out on opportunities in the process.

Once you start the job interview process, potential employers give you an aptitude or math test. They also test your abilities with a competency-based interview that many find challenging since employers already know you fly well but want to see you translate military airforce flight strategies and experience into commercial ones. Afterward, simulator assessments and group exercises further test competency. 

What Are Some Things to Consider with This Transition?

When wondering, “Can a military pilot become a commercial pilot?” consider the following factors that affect eligibility and the ease of transition. 

Minimum Age Requirements 

When you became a military pilot, you probably understood you had to start training by 30. If you were a naval aviator with no prior flying experience, you could start training anywhere between the ages of 19 and 32. 

When becoming a commercial aviator, age restrictions are not as strict since there is no upper age limit keeping older pilots from partaking in this new career endeavor. However, many suggest joining the Commercial Air Force when you’re under 40. Joining after means you’ll have to take physicals and other medical examinations every six months rather than annually. 

Industry and Aircraft Knowledge

Commercial aviation requires a different set of procedures and regulations than military aviation, meaning you must learn about industry regulations in your new career to have relevant industry knowledge. You should also keep up with industry trends, but it’s not just the rules that change. 

In your military position, you learned to fly certain aircraft and use specialized airforce equipment that may not exist in a commercial setting. Now, you must learn about new commercial aircraft via additional training and programs. 

Set Your Future In Motion Starting Today!

When beginning your aviation transition, it can seem overwhelming and even confusing. The right school will guide you through the necessary courses, helping you uncover what you do and don’t need to meet your unique goals. They’ll also ensure you get high marks in every class you take. 

At Leopard Aviation LLC, in Phoenix, AZ, our certified flight instructors use the latest technology to make flying educational and fun, including using interactive chair-flying techniques. Call 480-372-9815 if you’re wondering, “Can a military pilot become a commercial pilot?” or want to transition today!