The commercial pilot certificate upgrades your private pilot certificate, qualifying you to be financially compensated for piloting an aircraft. Contact us today for more information!
How to Obtain a Commercial Certificate
Prerequisites
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have at least a private pilot certificate prior to completion of commercial pilot certificate
- Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language
- Have at least a third-class FAA medical certificate
Getting Started
- Contact Sweet Aviation to meet our training manager
- Discuss commercial training plan & commercial ground training options
- Begin ground instruction and/or commercial flight training
Flight Training Requirements
- Flight experience — must have logged at least:
- Airplane certification requires 250 hours of total flight time
OR - Helicopter certification requires 150 hours of total flight time
- Airplane certification requires 250 hours of total flight time
- 100 hours in powered aircraft
- 50 hours in airplanes or in helicopters
- 50 hours as pilot in command cross-country flight
- 20 hours of flight training from an authorized instructor (CFI)
- 5 hours of night flight
- 10 hours of solo flight time or 10 hours with an instructor performing the duties of pilot in command
- 3 hours of flight test preparation within preceding two calendar months of the practical test (check ride)
Final Steps
- Pass your FAA Commercial Knowledge exam
- Fulfill the minimum requirements of flight time and training specified by the FAA
- Pass oral and flight tests given by the FAA or an approved designated pilot examiner
Q: What does a commercial certificate do for me?
A: It allows you to be compensated for operating an aircraft when flying for a commercial operator.
Q: How much does it cost to obtain a commercial certificate?
A: There are many variables. Once you receive your private pilot certificate and instrument rating, call us to schedule a meeting to plan your next steps for obtaining a commercial pilot certificate.
Q: Once I get my commercial certificate, can I work for an airline?
A: No, not yet. You would be required to obtain an airline transport pilot certificate (ATP) to work for an airline company. Some entry-level commercial pilot opportunities might include being a copilot for corporate aircraft, banner towing, aerial survey, photography, and more. The most common way to receive compensation for your new commercial pilot privileges is to become a certified flight instructor (CFI).
