Top 5 Tips to Start Your Journey as a Pilot

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Top 5 Tips to Start Your Journey as a Pilot to the skies in control of some of the world’s most advanced aircraft is a dream job for many. However, the path to becoming a pilot is challenging, filled with numerous obstacles. Here are some top tips to set you on the right track.

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Ask Yourself: “Why Do I Want to Become a Pilot?”

Each individual will face unique challenges on the journey to the cockpit. Some might encounter financial difficulties, while others could struggle with exams or the demanding nature of pilot training. There’s also the lifestyle to consider—being away from loved ones and missing important events due to airline schedules or unexpected shifts. Here are some tips to start your journey as a pilot.

Before you even think about starting any kind of pilot training, ensure you’re pursuing this career for the right reasons. Is aviation your true passion, or are you attracted by the perceived glamour of the job? Are you in it for the salary, or do you simply want to wear the sharp uniform?

Interestingly, while pilots often love their jobs (and uniforms), the gig isn’t as glamorous as it once was. Pilots face longer hours, and airlines’ expectations have increased. Also, while the starting salary is often higher than in other fields, many pilots need to manage loan repayments for their training, which can affect take-home pay.

Keep in mind, during pilot job interviews, the question “Why do you want to be a pilot?” is almost certain to come up, so make sure you’re clear on your reasons at the start of your journey as a pilot.

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Do Your Homework

This ties into the first tip; find out as much as you can about the field. Spend time around planes, chat with pilots who have completed their training—most are more than willing to share their experiences and offer advice. Attend events like Pilot Careers Live and ask as many questions as you need until you have a comprehensive understanding of a pilot’s reality, including highlights, challenges, lifestyle, salary, and training options. These are critical tips to equip you well as you start your journey as a pilot.

At Sudisha Aviation Consultant (SAC), we provide comprehensive information to aspiring pilots, ensuring their decisions are well-informed, up-to-date, and never regrettable.

Explore different avenues to earn your Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL). The two main paths are Integrated and Modular. The Integrated route is a full-time program, taking around 15-18 months, leading from novice to a commercial pilot ready for employment. In contrast, the Modular approach can be taken at the student’s own speed, as time and finances allow. Costs for the Modular route are often less than the Integrated, with training done in stages, letting the costs spread over time, and allowing work between modules. Both routes end with the same licence, so research what fits your goals and circumstances best.

Be mindful that with limited airline-sponsored programs available currently, becoming a commercial pilot is a real financial undertaking. Check out numerous training schools, weigh all possible routes, and gain as much experience as possible.

For various courses and flight training schools worldwide, click on the links at the end of this article.

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Get Your Pilot Medical Certificate

Before you commit financially to any training program, it’s vital to secure your initial Class 1 Medical, essential for those aiming to get a commercial or airline transport pilot licence. Don’t spend money on a full-time course until you are sure you’re medically cleared to fly commercially so you can start your journey as a pilot without health uncertainties.

Don’t believe the myths like “I can’t be a commercial pilot because I wear glasses.” As long as your vision can be corrected to 20/20 using glasses or contacts, you can certainly fly commercial aircraft. All medical exams must be conducted by an authorized medical Centre. The exam will last around four hours, examining your medical history, eyesight, general physical health, hearing, heart rhythm, lung function, and includes blood and urine tests.

For more details on medical tests, please contact Sudisha Aviation Consultant (SAC). SAC also provides an updated list of CAAN-authorized medical centers in Nepal.

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Protect Your Investment

Investing in your flight training will likely be one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll make. Whichever path you decide on, securing your investment is crucial. So, what should you do to protect your investment as you start your journey as a pilot?

Once again, thorough research is key. Learn everything about your chosen Approved Training Organisation (ATO). How long has it been in operation? Does it have any affiliations with major airlines? Does it offer a payment protection plan?

During your training, always be mindful of the bigger picture, including the financial health of your chosen ATO and the flying industry as a whole.

And remember: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

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Lastly, Never Give Up

The final piece of advice is perseverance. Regardless of the training path you select to start your journey, there’s no easy shortcut to the cockpit. But remember, once you’re there, you enjoy a pretty phenomenal view from your “office window.”

Pilot Chloe Harrison shared some insight from her days in the British Airways Future Pilot Programme. “It is not a career for those without a deep, innate desire. At times, it’s a struggle, but with the ultimate goal of sitting in the right-hand seat with the best airline, it’s absolutely worth it. Becoming an airline pilot is tough,” Chloe mentioned. “A certain level of intelligence is necessary, but to those who might be daunted by this, I say: we are all everyday people, yet committed and driven. But we share a common dream—to fly. Research your options, explore available scholarships, and take advantage of them. If you love aviation as I do, best of luck in your career! GOOD LUCK!”

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Pilot Training Programs:

Pilot Training Programs(Opens in a new browser tab)

BS in Aviation (Major in Commercial Flying)(Opens in a new browser tab)

Your Path to Becoming a Pilot in Nepal(Opens in a new browser tab)

The Ultimate Guide to Pilot Jobs in 2025: Trends and Opportunities(Opens in a new browser tab)