How to Become an Airline Pilot

How to Become an Airline Pilot in 2025

Becoming a commercial airline pilot is a rewarding journey, and understanding the official requirements is the first step. At Aviator Zone Academy, we guide you through every stage, so you’re not just prepared, you’re ahead. Here’s what it takes to meet the FAA qualifications and launch your airline career in 2025.

Minimum Requirements to Become an Airline Pilot

To qualify as an airline pilot in the United States, you must meet the following FAA-mandated criteria:

Must be at least 23 years old to obtain a Full ATP, or at least 21 years old for a Restricted ATP.
Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument and Multi-Engine Ratings
Accumulate at least 1,500 total flight hours.
Pass the FAA’s ATP written and practical exams.
Hold a valid first-class FAA medical certificate.

These are the core requirements for obtaining your Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate, which is necessary to fly as a first officer or captain for a commercial airline. Learn More About Our Commercial Pilot Program

College Degree: Is It Required?

While the FAA does not require a college degree to become a pilot, many major airlines prefer candidates who have one, especially in fields like aviation, science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). At Aviator Zone Academy, we focus on helping students achieve all core flight training and certification milestones, but we also recognize the value of higher education in advancing your aviation career. For those interested in earning a degree alongside their flight training, we proudly partner with Purdue University Global and Miami Dade College. Our partnership with Purdue Global allows students to pursue an online Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight, a program developed in collaboration with Purdue University’s School of Aviation and Transportation Technology. Students can receive up to 45 transfer credits for FAA ratings, complete the degree in as little as 2–3 years, save up to $28,400 in tuition, and continue flying or instructing while studying—all through a program backed by one of the most respected names in aviation. Learn more about the Purdue Global partnership here.

In addition, our partnership with Miami Dade College provides a pathway for students to earn an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation, with both in-person and hybrid options designed to complement your flight training schedule. For more information about MDC’s aviation programs and partnerships here.

Whether your goal is to fly professionally, teach, or advance in the aviation industry, Aviator Zone Academy is committed to supporting both your flight and academic ambitions.

Flight Experience and Hour Building

To be eligible for the ATP certificate, you must log a minimum of 1,500 flight hours. These hours are typically gained through a combination of solo flights, cross-country flights, and time as a flight instructor.

Many of our students reach this goal by becoming Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs), a strategic and cost-effective way to gain experience while earning income. Train to Become a CFI

What Is a Restricted ATP (R-ATP)?

The Restricted ATP certificate allows qualified pilots to fly for regional airlines with fewer than 1,500 hours of total flight time. This option is ideal for those who complete training through approved programs or have military flight experience.

Examples of R-ATP eligibility:

Aviator Zone Academy will help you determine if you qualify for the R-ATP and support you in building the flight hours you need to reach your airline goals. Discover all our available courses

FAA Medical Requirements

To fly for a commercial airline, you must pass a first-class FAA medical exam, which confirms that you meet the physical and mental fitness standards required for professional pilots.

The exam includes evaluations of your vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and neurological function. It must be completed by an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). Find a Medical Examiner