Do you dream of taking to the skies for a living? Working as a commercial pilot offers many opportunities for those dreaming of flying professionally. Whether it’s taking passengers across Europe, private jet charters, or transporting cargo halfway around the globe, this role combines technical expertise with incredible travel opportunities. Read on to find out what it takes to get your wings.
Updated: 05 Sept 2025
What does a commercial pilot do?
Commercial pilots are responsible for safely operating passenger aircraft, and besides actually flying the aeroplane, this involves navigating planned routes, reviewing weather reports, and communicating with air traffic control. On a typical day, you’ll be working closely with co-pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff to ensure a smooth and safe flight that arrives on time.
Behind the scenes, you’ll be logging flight data, managing any delays or reroutes, and continually updating your professional knowledge of flight regulations and aircraft systems.
Composure: Unexpected situations will arise, and part of your job is to react in a calm and controlled manner, while providing reassurance to passengers and flight staff
Communication: Pilots must clearly relay information to crew and air traffic control, using an array of standardised aviation terminology
Technical proficiency: You’ll need to know how to fly various different airplanes and flight platforms, as well navigating different types of runway and air traffic control systems
Recommended A-level subjects for university-based commercial pilot training include maths, physics, and other STEM subjects that develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. An A-level in a second language is also considered a plus.
It must be said that you don’t need a university degree to become a commercial pilot, however there is a range of aviation-related undergraduate courses, such as BSc (Hons) Air Transport with Commercial Pilot Training, BSc (Hons) Aviation with Pilot Studies, or BSc (Hons) Aviation Management with Commercial Pilot Training. These offer integrated flight training and connections with flight schools.
NEXT: Check out a selection of aviation degree courses
If you choose a university degree with pilot training, you’ll study modules in aerodynamics, aviation law, meteorology, and aircraft systems alongside simulator and in-air flight training. Some courses include the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) or certain Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) modules as part of the curriculum, which can reduce costs later on.
Yes. Many pilots go directly to flight school after A-levels, enrolling in approved training programmes. These include:
Integrated courses: Full-time, 18–24 months, including ATPL training
Modular courses: Spread over time, allowing flexible pacing
You will graduate with a full honours degree having completed your flight training and the ground exams required for your ‘frozen’ Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL).
This means that after leaving uni, you’ll need to do the following things to start working as a commercial pilot:
Step one: Obtain a ‘type rating’, which qualifies you to fly a specific aircraft model
Step two: Get hired by an airline. Apply for First Officer (co-pilot) positions with airlines that accept low-hour or cadet pilots
Step three: Log 1,500 flight hours, including 500 hours in multi-crew aircraft
Step four: Upgrade to Captain to fully validate your ATPL license
This process typically takes 3–7 years. Continual training is essential to stay certified and keep your skills sharp, especially as aircraft technology evolves.
Get some experience: Time spent with flying or gliding clubs, or experience in aviation and engineering is a great way to show commitment.
Be fit and healthy: Make sure you can pass the Class 1 medical exam with flying colours before investing heavily in training
Funding: Flight training can be expensive (£70,000+), so research scholarships or sponsored schemes through airlines like British Airways or easyJet.
"The course offers hands-on pilot studies, which is a rare and valuable addition to an engineering degree. Graduates can go into engineering, aviation, or further pilot training, giving them flexibility in career choices" — Martin Blacidus, BEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies at Bristol, UWE
NEXT: Read more student reviews and compare aviation degree courses
How long does it take to become a pilot?
It can take 16-18 months to qualify as a pilot (frozen ATPL status) if you've no previous flying experience. A two-year part-time 'modular' route is also available allowing you to work while you train.
Is it expensive to become a commercial pilot?
Yes, there’s no way to sugar-coat it. Training requires a huge financial investment, and can cost anything between £70,000 and £130,000
Is funding available?
Some airlines offer sponsorships, but places are competitive. You may also be eligible for student loans if you take a degree.
Think you've got what it takes to become a commercial pilot? Explore aviation and pilot training courses on Whatuni and watch your career take off.