WHERE ARE YOU IN YOUR JOURNEY?
Jump to the Right Stage for You
YOUR STEP-BY-STEP PATH
From Zero to Airline Pilot
Select your current stage to see what it takes, what it costs, and how Aviator's airline pilots help you get there.
New to Flying? Start Here — Your Private Pilot License (PPL)
Your foundation for all flying—learn to fly visually in good weather.
The Private Pilot License is your first certificate. It teaches you to fly in good weather using outside visual cues (VFR). After PPL, you can add ratings (Instrument, then Commercial) if you want to go further. Reality check: The FAA minimum is 35–40 hours, but most part‑time students finish in 60–100+ hours depending on how often they fly, weather, and schedule consistency.
You're at this stage if:
- You have zero flight hours and are just starting
- You're a career-changer planning your first step toward airlines
- You want to fly for personal reasons but might go further later
Common Questions
How long does it really take to reach the airlines?
Most part-time students take 4–6 years from zero to regional airline First Officer. Full-time students at accelerated programs can reach minimums in 18–24 months, but still need to build 1,000–1,500 hours through instructing or other commercial flying.
What if I just want to fly for fun — not a career?
That's great — most of our students are hobby pilots. Start with PPL and see where it takes you. You can always add ratings later.
Is it too late if I'm 30 or older?
No. Airlines hire pilots into their 50s. What matters is reaching ATP minimums and passing the medical. Many of our students are career-changers in their 30s and 40s.
Aviator's Role at This Stage
Use our Manhattan AATD to master radio calls, G1000 procedures, and emergency flows before burning expensive airplane time. Our airline pilot instructors teach you professional habits from day one.
TOTAL INVESTMENT
What Does It Cost to Become an Airline Pilot?
Career pilot training is a significant commitment. Here's the honest overview — and where simulator training at Aviator saves you real money.
Career Pilot Resources
Deep-dive articles from airline pilots on every stage of the path
Private Pilot License
Start here if you've never flown — we'll walk you through every step to your license.
Youth Aviation Program
Flying programs for ages 8-17 — clear milestones from first lesson to solo flight.
Choosing the Right Flight Instructor
How to find an instructor who matches your learning style and goals — essential for new pilots.
Part 61 vs Part 141 Flight Training
Compare FAA Part 61 and Part 141 flight schools — pros, cons, and which is right for your pilot journey.
Real Cost of Learning to Fly (2026)
Full cost breakdown for becoming a private pilot — realistic budgets, not just minimums.
Non-U.S. Citizen?
TSA approval is required before your second lesson. We do NOT sponsor visas.
We do NOT sponsor visas.
Learn about TSA requirements →Plan Your Path to the Airlines
Get a personalized roadmap from airline pilots who've done it. We'll walk through your timeline, budget, and which stages Aviator can help with most.