The Different Types of Commercial Aircraft Pilots

Commercial aircraft pilots come in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are those who fly for commercial airlines, those who transport cargo, and those who perform aerial maneuvers for aerial photography. Each of these categories requires a different set of skills and certifications. Those who fly for commercial airlines typically have to have an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, and must have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time. Cargo pilots must also have an ATP and must have at least 1,000 hours of flight time. Aerial photographers must have a Commercial Pilot Certificate, and must have at least 250 hours of flight time. All of these pilots must also pass a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) written exam. The FAA also has educational requirements for all of these types of pilots, which include training in a variety of aircraft systems, navigation, and other aviation topics. Additionally, all commercial aircraft pilots must maintain a current medical certificate. Becoming a commercial aircraft pilot requires a significant investment in time and money, as well as dedication and hard work. However, the rewards of being a commercial aircraft pilot are immense, and the excitement of being in the air can make it a very rewarding experience.

4.9 out of 5 based on 800+ Review

4.8/5

Workshop Registration

4000+ Pilots Trained

World-Class Instructors

Live Online / Classroom

20+Countries & Counting

Video News

Program Name

Class Type

Batch Start Date

Enroll Now

DGCA Ground Classes
Preparatory Classes

Online/Offline

4th August, 2025

Enroll Now

INDIGO CADET PROGRAM
Preparatory Classes

Online/Offline

1st July, 2025

Enroll Now

Overview - The Different Types of Commercial Aircraft Pilots

Commercial aircraft pilots are a highly-skilled and specialized profession. They are responsible for the safe operation of an aircraft and for the lives of the passengers and crew on board. There are different types of commercial aircraft pilots, each with their own set of skills and qualifications.

The most common types of commercial aircraft pilots are airline pilots and aircraft pilots. Airline pilots fly large commercial aircraft for airlines such as American Airlines and British Airways. They are responsible for the safety and operation of the aircraft, as well as the passengers and crew. Airline pilots must have a commercial pilot’s license, which requires a considerable amount of training and education.

Aircraft pilots typically fly smaller, private aircraft. They are responsible for the safety and operation of the aircraft, as well as the passengers and crew. Aircraft pilots must also have a commercial pilot’s license, which requires a considerable amount of training and education.

In addition to airline and aircraft pilots, there are also corporate pilots and military pilots. Corporate pilots fly private aircraft for businesses and organizations. They may also be responsible for transporting passengers and cargo. Military pilots fly military aircraft, such as fighter jets and cargo planes. They are responsible for the safety and operation of the aircraft, as well as the passengers and crew. Military pilots must have a military pilot’s license, which requires a considerable amount of training and education.

To become a commercial aircraft pilot, one must have a commercial pilot’s license. This requires a considerable amount of training and education. In addition to classroom instruction, pilots must also complete a series of practical training sessions. This includes flight simulation, aircraft familiarization, and actual flight time. After completing the necessary training and education, pilots must pass a series of exams to obtain their license.

Commercial aircraft pilots must also be knowledgeable of aviation regulations and safety protocols. They must be able to make quick decisions in emergencies, and be able to think critically and problem-solve in order to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

Becoming a commercial aircraft pilot is a challenging and rewarding career. It requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to safety. With the right training and education, any aspiring pilot can become a successful commercial aircraft pilot.

Drop us a Query

Enroll now for Best Science Course

Full Name

Phone number

Course

We care about your data in our privacy policy.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

One-on-One Counselling Sessions

Choosing to become a pilot is a life-changing decision—and you shouldn’t have to make it alone.
At Golden Epaulettes, we offer personalized one-on-one counseling sessions with experienced airline captains who’ve helped thousands of students make the right career move.

Book a 1-on-1 Pilot Career Counselling Session

Your Career Deserves Clarity, Not Confusion

Choosing to become a pilot is a life-changing decision—and you shouldn’t have to make it alone. At Golden Epaulettes, we offer personalized one-on-one counseling sessions with experienced airline captains who’ve helped thousands of students make the right career move.

Assessment of your academic background & eligibility
Custom roadmap for Cadet or CPL path based on your financials and timeline
Clarification on DGCA medicals, flying schools, exams, and type ratings
Honest advice about scholarships, loans, and affordability for middle-class families
Mindset coaching to overcome fear, doubt, or misinformation

Complete Information - The Different Types of Commercial Aircraft Pilots: This article will provide an overview of the different types of commercial aircraft pilots and the skills required to become one.

Commercial aircraft pilots are responsible for safely flying airplanes and helicopters for a variety of purposes. These include passenger and cargo transportation, aerial photography, air ambulance, air taxi, and air charter services. Depending on the type of aircraft flown and the mission of the flight, commercial aircraft pilots must possess different qualifications and experience.

The most common type of commercial aircraft pilot is the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP). This is the highest level of certification for a pilot and requires a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time. In addition, the pilot must have an ATP certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This requires passing a rigorous written and practical knowledge test, along with an instrument rating. ATP pilots are qualified to fly large, complex aircraft and are typically employed by major airlines.

The next highest level of commercial aircraft pilot is the Commercial Pilot (CP). CPs are required to have a minimum of 250 hours of flight time and a Commercial Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Depending on the aircraft flown, they may also require an instrument rating. CPs are typically employed by smaller airlines, aerial photography companies, and air charter services.

Another type of commercial aircraft pilot is the Flight Instructor (FI). FIs are responsible for training pilots for the ATP and CP certificates. They must have an FAA Flight Instructor Certificate and a minimum of 1,000 hours of flight time. In addition, they must have experience with the type of aircraft they will be teaching.

The final type of commercial aircraft pilot is the General Aviation Pilot (GAP). GAPs are typically employed by small businesses for short-haul flights. They must have a minimum of 200 hours of flight time and a Private Pilot Certificate from the FAA. In addition, they must have an instrument rating and experience with the type of aircraft they will be flying.

Regardless of the type of commercial aircraft pilot, all must possess a high level of skill, training, and experience. They must complete an extensive amount of training and testing before they can be licensed to fly. In addition, they must stay current on new technologies and regulations in order to remain certified.

Commercial aircraft pilots are highly skilled professionals who play an important role in the aviation industry. They must possess a wide range of qualifications and experience in order to be successful. By understanding the different types of commercial aircraft pilots and the qualifications required to become one, you can decide which type of pilot is right for you.

Drop us a Query

Enroll now for Best Science Course

Full Name

Phone number

Course

We care about your data in our privacy policy.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Social Media

Join India’s Fastest-Growing Pilot Community – Learn Directly from Airline Captains!

Join the Golden Epaulettes Pilot Community—India’s fastest-growing network for aspiring aviators. This mentorship-driven platform connects you with experienced airline captains, including Capt. Deval Soni and Capt. Tomar Awdhesh. Whether you're just starting or preparing for your cadet pilot journey, this community is your gateway to expert guidance, peer connections, and real industry knowledge.

Join the GE Pilot Community

Stay Informed, Stay Ahead

Become part of the fastest-growing pilot mentorship group in India.The Golden Epaulettes Community is where aspiring pilots connect, learn, and grow—guided by experienced airline captains.

Get notified about exclusive webinars, career updates & DGCA changes
Connect with fellow aspirants, alumni, and mentors
Access curated study tips, updates, and aviation news
Engage with Experts and receive insights from Capt. Deval Soni & Capt. Tomar Awdhesh
Be Part of a Network of thousands of like-minded future aviators
Early Access to webinars, workshops.

Join the GE Community

Are you planning to pursue a career in aviation but unsure where to begin?Gain actionable insights from Capt. Deval Soni, an A320 Commander and mentor to over 3,500 aspiring pilots across India.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Books Preview

This comprehensive subject encompasses Air Law, Operational Procedures, Human Performance and Limitations, and Communications. Air Law covers international and national aviation laws, regulations, and licensing requirements. Operational Procedures include standard operating protocols and emergency procedures. Human Performance and Limitations examine the physiological and psychological aspects affecting pilot performance. Communications focus on standard aviation communication procedures and phraseology.