Becoming a pilot is a dream that’s achievable straight out of high school. Many successful pilots started their journey at a young age, showing that with the right training and dedication, anyone can take to the skies. 

If you’re wondering how to become a pilot after high school, the first step is enrolling in flight training, where you’ll learn the skills needed for success. 

At Leopard Aviation, we provide top-tier programs designed for high school graduates eager to start their aviation careers. Let us guide you toward your dream of flying and help you launch your journey today!

Step 1: Understand the Basics of Becoming a Pilot

Becoming a pilot is a thrilling and rewarding career, and it all begins with understanding the basic types of pilot licenses. If you’re wondering how to become a pilot after high school, it’s essential to know which path to follow and what each license entails.

The most common licenses that aspiring pilots pursue are the Private Pilot License (PPL), the Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Each has its requirements, responsibilities, and privileges, so let’s break them down.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

The PPL is the most basic and essential license for anyone starting their aviation journey. This license allows you to fly small aircraft for personal use, and it’s the first step towards other, more advanced certifications. As a high school graduate looking to become a pilot, this is where your journey begins. To earn a PPL, you’ll need to complete a set number of flight hours (usually 40-60 hours), pass a medical exam, and take a written knowledge test. The PPL also includes flight training, where you’ll learn how to handle aircraft, navigate, and perform basic maneuvers.

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Once you’ve earned your PPL, you can pursue a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) if you wish to fly for a living. This license opens up opportunities to be paid for your flying services, such as flying for airlines, cargo services, or as a flight instructor. To qualify for a CPL, you need a significant amount of flying experience—typically around 250 hours, though this can vary. You’ll also need to pass an additional written exam and flight test, demonstrating your proficiency as a pilot.

Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

The ATPL is the highest level of pilot certification and is required if you want to become an airline captain. It’s a more advanced qualification that demands a significant number of flight hours and experience. To become an airline pilot, you’ll often need to hold an ATPL, which means working your way through the PPL and CPL stages.

Why Flight Schools Matter

When you’re figuring out how to become a pilot after high school, choosing the right flight school is crucial. A good flight school, like Leopard Aviation, offers well-rounded training and hands-on experience, ensuring you get the support you need every step of the way. From the very start of your journey with a PPL to advanced training for your CPL or ATPL, the instructors at Leopard Aviation are there to guide you through the learning process and ensure you have the skills to succeed.

Step 2: Get the Necessary Education

One of the questions often asked when considering how to become a pilot after high school is whether a college degree is required. The good news is that a formal degree is not mandatory to start flight training. However, there are educational elements that are crucial to your success as a pilot.

While a college degree isn’t a strict requirement for obtaining a PPL, flight schools like Leopard Aviation do require a high school education or equivalent. Having a solid understanding of subjects like math, physics, and English will definitely help, as aviation involves a lot of technical concepts that need to be clearly understood.

Flight School Curriculum

Flight school is where your theoretical knowledge and practical flying skills come together. The curriculum at Leopard Aviation is designed to cater to aspiring pilots straight out of high school, offering both ground school (theory) and flight school (hands-on flying). Ground school covers everything from aviation regulations to meteorology, aircraft systems, and navigation. This theoretical foundation is key to your understanding of flight and is essential for passing the written FAA exams.

Flight training, on the other hand, is the hands-on part of the education process. During this part of your training, you’ll spend time in the air, learning how to operate an aircraft, manage emergency procedures, and build your confidence as a pilot. It’s a thrilling and essential part of your journey to becoming a pilot.

At Leopard Aviation, we’re committed to giving you both the theoretical and practical knowledge you need. We understand that every high school graduate has unique learning needs, so we tailor our programs to meet the needs of each individual, ensuring that you have the tools to succeed.

Step 3: Pass the Medical Examination

Before you start flying, you’ll need to pass a medical examination. This step is a critical part of how to become a pilot after high school, as all aspiring pilots must meet specific medical standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

FAA Medical Certificate

To obtain a pilot’s license, you need an FAA medical certificate. The medical certificate is divided into three classes: First Class, Second Class, and Third Class. The class of medical certificate required depends on the type of flying you plan to do.

• First Class Medical is required for airline pilots and commercial pilots who want to fly for hire.
• Second Class Medical is needed for commercial pilots who don’t plan to fly for airlines.
• Third Class Medical is sufficient for pilots flying privately (for personal use). This is the most common certificate held by student pilots and recreational pilots.

Each class of medical certificate has specific vision, hearing, and overall health requirements. Your medical professional will assess your vision, hearing, blood pressure, heart health, and overall fitness. It’s important to note that pilots with certain health conditions may need to provide additional documentation or undergo special evaluations.

When you’re learning how to become a pilot after high school, selecting a medical professional with experience in aviation-related exams is essential. At Leopard Aviation, we can provide recommendations for trusted medical examiners who are well-versed in aviation medical requirements, helping you get through this step without any unnecessary hurdles.

Step 4: Enroll in a Flight School (Leopard Aviation)

Choosing the right flight school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when learning how to become a pilot after high school. The right school will provide you with the tools, experience, and support you need to succeed.

At Leopard Aviation, we understand that high school graduates need a program that is not only comprehensive but also flexible. Our flight school offers modern training facilities and aircraft, along with experienced instructors who are passionate about teaching the next generation of pilots. We offer a wide range of programs, from private pilot training to commercial and advanced ratings, so you can continue progressing as you work towards your goals.

In addition to flight training, our programs include classroom instruction to ensure you understand the theory behind flying. At Leopard Aviation, we aim to give you everything you need to pass your exams, become a skilled pilot, and be prepared for any situation in the air.

Step 5: Begin Flight Training

Flight training is where the fun really begins. After enrolling at Leopard Aviation, you’ll start with your first lesson in the cockpit, and there’s nothing quite like it. From the moment you take control of the aircraft, you’ll begin to learn the ins and outs of flying, from takeoff to landing and everything in between.

As a student pilot, you’ll gradually build your flight hours, with the aim of achieving the required minimum flight time for a private pilot’s license (usually 40-60 hours). Your training will include both solo flights and dual instruction, where an experienced flight instructor will guide you through maneuvers and techniques.

At Leopard Aviation, we pride ourselves on offering personalized training, so you’ll get the individual attention you need to progress at your own pace. Our instructors are skilled at making flight training both educational and enjoyable, ensuring you develop the confidence and skills needed to succeed as a pilot.

Step 6: Get the Necessary Flight Hours

One of the most important parts of how to become a pilot after high school is logging flight hours. You’ll need to accumulate a set number of flight hours to meet the FAA requirements for various licenses.

For a Private Pilot License, you’ll typically need 40-60 hours of flight time, but the more experience you have, the better. At Leopard Aviation, we provide opportunities to gain flight hours quickly and effectively, whether you’re flying solo or training with an instructor. We also offer partnerships with local flight schools to give you access to more flight time opportunities, allowing you to achieve your flight hour requirements in less time.

Step 7: Pass the FAA Written and Practical Exams

Once you’ve completed your flight training and accumulated the necessary hours, you’ll need to pass two important exams: the FAA written exam (knowledge test) and the practical exam (check ride). These exams are designed to test your understanding of flight principles, navigation, aircraft systems, and regulations.

At Leopard Aviation, we help students prepare for both exams with comprehensive study materials, mock exams, and plenty of in-flight practice. Our instructors will make sure you’re ready to pass your exams and demonstrate your flying skills with confidence.

Step 8: Consider Further Training for Commercial Pilots

If you’re interested in flying commercially, you’ll need to transition from your Private Pilot License to a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). This step requires additional flight hours, exams, and training, including learning to operate multi-engine aircraft, obtaining an instrument rating, and potentially becoming a flight instructor.

Leopard Aviation provides advanced training options for those wishing to pursue a career as a commercial pilot or airline captain. With our comprehensive training programs, you can take the next step towards becoming a professional pilot. Whether you’re aiming for a career with an airline or planning to become a flight instructor, Leopard Aviation has the resources and expertise to help you succeed.

Ready to Soar: Start Your Aviation Career Today

Becoming a pilot after high school requires dedication, from flight training to passing medical exams and logging flight hours. At Leopard Aviation, we make it easy to take that first step with our comprehensive training programs. 

Whether you’re aiming for your private pilot’s license or dream of becoming a commercial pilot, we’ll guide you every step of the way. With experienced instructors and modern aircraft, we provide the tools to launch your aviation career. 

So, what are you waiting for? Ready to take flight? Contact us today to start your journey toward becoming a pilot after high school!

FAQs

1. What are the first steps to becoming a pilot after high school?

The first step is to obtain a private pilot’s license (PPL) by enrolling in a flight school. You’ll need to pass a medical exam, log flight hours, and complete written tests before earning your PPL. From there, you can pursue commercial and airline pilot training.

2. Do I need a college degree to become a pilot?

No, a college degree is not required to become a pilot. However, attending college can provide additional opportunities, such as earning a degree in aviation. Many pilots choose to attend aviation academies, and some airline companies may prefer a degree, but it’s not mandatory.

3. How long does it take to become a pilot after high school?

Becoming a commercial pilot typically takes 2-4 years after high school. This includes earning a private pilot license (PPL), then progressing through an instrument rating, commercial pilot license (CPL), and flight hours required for airline training. The total time varies based on individual progress and flight hours.

4. What is the minimum age to become a pilot?

To earn a private pilot’s license (PPL), you must be at least 17 years old. For a commercial pilot’s license (CPL), the minimum age is 18. However, you can begin flight training at any age as long as you meet the medical and training requirements.

5. Are there physical requirements to become a pilot?

Yes, pilots must pass a medical exam to ensure they meet the required physical standards. There are three classes of medical certificates, with Class 1 being required for airline pilots. The exam checks vision, hearing, and overall health, but certain conditions can be waived with medical review.