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.
ReviewReview
4.9 out of 5 based on 800+ Review
just-dial
4.8/5
Workshop Registration
Enroll Now
Enroll Now
Pilots Trained
4000+ Pilots Trained
World-Class Instructors
World-Class Instructors
Live Online / Classroom
Live Online / Classroom
Countries
20+Countries & Counting

Video News

Ahmedabad flight Crash | Jantantratv | JTV | Hindi News
From Take Off to Landing Simulator Training Session By Captain Awdhesh Tomar
#
Program Name
Class Type
Batch Start Date
Enroll Now
#1
DGCA Ground Classes
Preparatory Classes
Online/Offline
4th August, 2025
Enroll Now
#1
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
course
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.
workshop

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

Freebies for Aspiring Pilots

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.
Steps to becoma a Pilot
How to Clear Group Discussion
How to Clear Group Interview
DGCA Ground Class Brochure

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
course
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Social Media

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

Best of support with us

Get Free Counselling from our Counsellor

Counselling
Computer Number Application & Board Verification Made Easy
Counselling
Personalized Study Plan & Career Roadmap (CPL & Cadet Program)
Counselling
Live Doubt Clearing + One-on-One Mentorship with Airline Captains

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.
webinar

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

Register for Webinar

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.
live webinar

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.
Mastering Airline Interview

Mastering Airline Interview

Mastering Airline Interview
Instrument Navigation

Instrument Navigation

Instrument Navigation
Meteorology

Meteorology

Meteorology
General Navigation

General Navigation

General Navigation
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images

Article, Blogs News, and Job Guide Information- Published By 4Achievers

https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

SpiceJet Cadet Pilot Program :

International Pilots - This article looks at the opportunities available to international pilots who participate in the SpiceJet Cadet Pilot Program, including the potential for working abroad.
International Pilots - This article looks at the opportunities available to international pilots who participate in the SpiceJet Cadet Pilot Program, including the potential for working abroad.
Rohit
13 Mar 2023
1 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Applying to the CAA Cadet Pilot Program :

Learn how to apply to the CAA Cadet Pilot Program and what documents are required.
Learn how to apply to the CAA Cadet Pilot Program and what documents are required.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
6 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Preparing for Your Pilot Exams :

This article will provide advice on how to prepare for the subject exams as part of the Insight Cadet Pilot Program, including tips on how to study for the exams and advice for taking them.
This article will provide advice on how to prepare for the subject exams as part of the Insight Cadet Pilot Program, including tips on how to study for the exams and advice for taking them.
Kevin
13 Mar 2023
4 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Taking an Airline Pilots Exam :

Learn how to prepare for an airline pilot's exam and what to expect.
Learn how to prepare for an airline pilot's exam and what to expect.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
4 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

The Benefits of Being in the CAE Cadet Pilot Program :

An overview of the benefits of being a part of the program.
An overview of the benefits of being a part of the program.
Premtosh Mishra
13 Mar 2023
5 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

What You Need to Know About the Jet Cadet Pilot Program :

This article will provide an overview of the Jet Cadet Pilot Program, including requirements, benefits, and how to apply.
This article will provide an overview of the Jet Cadet Pilot Program, including requirements, benefits, and how to apply.
Premtosh Mishra
13 Mar 2023
1 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

The Different Types of Pilot Exams :

An overview of the various types of pilot exams, from medical to commercial, and their respective requirements.
An overview of the various types of pilot exams, from medical to commercial, and their respective requirements.
Premtosh Mishra
13 Mar 2023
7 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Exploring the Qatar Airways Cadet Pilot Program :

A Comprehensive Guide – This article will provide an in-depth look at the Qatar Airways Cadet Pilot Program, including its benefits, requirements, and the training and assessment process.
A Comprehensive Guide – This article will provide an in-depth look at the Qatar Airways Cadet Pilot Program, including its benefits, requirements, and the training and assessment process.
Kevin
13 Mar 2023
6 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Exploring the Different Types of Pilot Training Available Through the SkyBorne Cadet Pilot Program :

An exploration of the different types of pilot training available through the program.
An exploration of the different types of pilot training available through the program.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
8 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Finding the Right Aviation Course Books for the FTA Cadet Pilot Program :

Get information on the best books to study for the program and how to find them.
Get information on the best books to study for the program and how to find them.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
10 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

A Guide to Aircraft Pilot Careers :

This article will provide an overview of aircraft pilot careers, including the different types of aircraft and the benefits of each.
This article will provide an overview of aircraft pilot careers, including the different types of aircraft and the benefits of each.
Rohit
13 Mar 2023
7 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Understanding the L-3 Cadet Pilot Program Subject Exams :

Learn about the subject exams associated with the L-3 Cadet Pilot Program and how to best prepare for them.
Learn about the subject exams associated with the L-3 Cadet Pilot Program and how to best prepare for them.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
6 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Introduction to the CAA Cadet Pilot Program :

Learn about the CAA Cadet Pilot Program, its requirements and benefits, and how to get started.
Learn about the CAA Cadet Pilot Program, its requirements and benefits, and how to get started.
Premtosh Mishra
13 Mar 2023
2 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

The Challenges of the Air Arabia Cadet Pilot Program :

This article will discuss the challenges of the Air Arabia Cadet Pilot Program, such as the time commitment and the difficulty of the tests.
This article will discuss the challenges of the Air Arabia Cadet Pilot Program, such as the time commitment and the difficulty of the tests.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
9 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Introduction to the L-3 Cadet Pilot Program :

Learn about the requirements necessary to become an L-3 Cadet Pilot and the benefits of participating in this program.
Learn about the requirements necessary to become an L-3 Cadet Pilot and the benefits of participating in this program.
Premtosh Mishra
13 Mar 2023
4 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

The Best Resources for CAA Cadet Pilots :

Learn about the best resources available for CAA Cadet Pilots, such as books and websites.
Learn about the best resources available for CAA Cadet Pilots, such as books and websites.
Premtosh Mishra
13 Mar 2023
10 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

Overcoming Challenges as an L-3 Cadet Pilot :

Understand the potential challenges that come with being an L-3 Cadet Pilot and how to best overcome them.
Understand the potential challenges that come with being an L-3 Cadet Pilot and how to best overcome them.
Kevin
13 Mar 2023
8 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

How to Choose the Right Jet Cadet Pilot Training Program :

This article will discuss the different types of Jet Cadet Pilot training programs available, and how to choose the right program for you.
This article will discuss the different types of Jet Cadet Pilot training programs available, and how to choose the right program for you.
Rohit
13 Mar 2023
9 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/laravel/public/index.php/NULL
Cadet Pilot Program

The Benefits of Working With Certified Instructors for Jet Cadet Pilots :

This article will discuss the benefits of working with certified instructors for Jet Cadet Pilots, including their expertise and experience.
This article will discuss the benefits of working with certified instructors for Jet Cadet Pilots, including their expertise and experience.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
8 min read

Student Placement

Airports are the essential arteries of travel and trade in USA, serving as vital gateways to the world. Our website showcase the top 3 airports in this region, highlighting their pivotal role in connecting people and businesses globally. These airports not only offer convenience for travelers but also power economic growth by facilitating trade and tourism.
email

Email

Our friendly team is here to help.
fly@goldenepaulettes.com
phone

Phone

Mon-Fri from 8am to 5pm.
+91-742-889-7782
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
icons Talk to Career Counsellor