We will look into the various challenges, rewards, and steps that a candidate might face in their journey from flying light aircraft to large airliners.
Transitioning from light aircraft to commercial aviation may seem like a daunting task, but if you have a good command over your light aircraft piloting skills, then you are already primed to commit to commercial aviation!
There is no denying that becoming a commercial pilot requires far more training, time, money, and focus – but the payoff is excellent in the context of money and growth.
If you are looking to transition, or have decided to fully commit to aviation, then this guide is just for you. We will look into the various challenges, rewards, and steps that a candidate might face in their journey from flying light aircraft to large airliners.
Light Aircraft – Starting from Basics
Light aircraft have been the mainstay in aviation for decades. They are versatile, relatively easy to fly, and efficient flying machines that have been used since the first flight at Kitty Hawk in 1903.
In fact, thanks to light aircraft, it is much easier to get into aviation than people think. For example, unlike a commercial licence, which requires hours of practical and theoretical training, a Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL) or a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) costs less, takes less time to obtain, and is the quickest way to enter a cockpit.
Another reason why light aircraft are so popular is that they offer a glimpse into the world of aviation. Through a Private Licence or a LAPL, candidates can get first-hand experience without committing to anything serious. Most people who go for a LAPL or a PPL usually take up aviation as a hobby where they would want relaxed training hours and a more affordable training programme that is focused on just the thrills of aviation.
However, a great thing about aviation is that it just pulls you in even when you have one foot in the door. Once you train in light aircraft and get comfortable, you are likely to continue your training and add on your skills.
A great example of this would be certifications. Many pilots start by flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) which is just a set of rules that dictate the optimal conditions to fly light aircraft. However, if you want to fly at night, or during low visibility, like during a weather-related event, then you will need to go for a Night Rating, which is a separate certification that trains you to fly outside of VFR.
Just like this certification, there are many others, including some related to communication equipment and instruments, where pilots can learn and grow their hobby until they are ready to completely dive into aviation.
Commercial Aviation – The Next Step
If you want to step up your game and fly more than just light aircraft, then you will have to step into the world of commercial aviation.
Commercial aviation includes public transportation, cargo transportation, health and emergency services, and virtually any other field that requires a pilot to fly an airplane for commercial purposes.
What is the biggest appeal of a commercial pilot? Well, commercial pilots get to build a career, make money off their hobby, and sometimes even fly to exotic places in huge planes. The fact is that becoming a commercial pilot requires a whole lot of dedication, but the payoff is more than worth it.
Benefits of Switching from Light Aircraft to Commercial Aviation
Here are three key benefits of switching over from light aircraft flying to commercial aviation:
You Are Already Halfway There
The biggest benefit of starting as a light aircraft pilot and transitioning to commercial operations is that most great light aircraft pilots are already well-versed in the basics of aviation.
During the training programme, aviators are taught about various aviation-related subjects like aerodynamics, meteorology, aircraft performance limitations, etc – and in order to obtain a valid licence, you have to prove your aptitude in both theoretical topics and practical training. So, by the time a candidate is awarded their Private Licence, they are already familiar with the topics that are included in the curriculum for a Commercial Pilot Programme.
The truth is, there are several overlapping topics in both Private and Commercial Pilot programmes. So, the candidates or pilots who are already acquainted will struggle significantly less than people who are starting from scratch.
Even if you are someone new, you can get the most out of your training if you enrol at the right school with the right faculty, like Sherburn Aero Club, that not only helps candidates in choosing the right aviation journey for them but also provides focused training depending on the candidate’s needs.
Your Hobby Will Become Your Source of Income
In the context of monetary benefits, becoming a commercial pilot is perhaps the best way to get the most out of your hobby. Think about it, you will be fulfilling your passion for aviation and getting paid at the same time. Another way to think about it is to compare the costs associated with flying as a private pilot.
When you only have a private pilot licence, you will have to pay numerous fees to fly light aircraft. Although this expense might be worth it, you will still end up paying more for your hobby.
However, if you switch over and become a commercial pilot, then you will literally be paid to pursue your hobby. Sure, in the beginning, it might be difficult to adjust to a job setting, but once you get used to commercial aviation, you will discover that it is one of the best professions in the world. Commercial pilots are usually paid well, handsomely even! Plus, you may also be entitled to various benefits that come from being employed by a big airliner.
Being a Commercial Pilot is an Honor
Apart from tangible advantages, there are also metaphorical benefits to becoming a commercial pilot. When you complete your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) training, you will become a part of a profession that is revered around the world. No matter where you go, once people will see you in your uniform, they will automatically recognise that you are a pilot.
Commercial Pilots are a different breed, and it’s not just because of their in-depth training! Commercial pilots have a different demeanour which results from their training. Their personality stands out and people usually gravitate towards them. So much so that some great pilots enter commercial aviation, not for the money, but for the honour and accomplishment associated with being a commercial pilot!
Light Aircraft to Commercial Aviation: A Career Transition Guide
Don’t know where to start? Then here is a quick and easy guide to help you transition from Light Aircraft to Commercial Aviation:
Do Your Research
The first step in transitioning is to do your own homework. Begin by researching the requirements set out by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). If you are already familiar with light aircraft, then you will easily understand the requirements for flight hours, ratings, and the relevant medical certificate required for a Commercial Pilot Licence.
We encourage candidates to research using online resources and focus on the requirements set out by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and the Civil Aviation Authority. If you are already enrolled at a flight school, then you can also speak with your instructors or private pilots on the best way to go forward with your training.
Please keep in mind that a Commercial Pilot Licence programme costs more than a Private Pilot Licence or a LAPL. So, you will also have to factor in costs when transitioning and figure out if you can meet the expenses without causing any delays in your training.
Obtain a PPL
If you already have a Private Pilot Licence, then you can skip this step. If you are a fresh candidate, then you will have to begin by starting with a PPL.
A Private Pilot Licence is the best way to enter aviation. It is a low-hanging fruit that can give you a great idea about what you can expect in aviation. By going for a PPL, you will learn the basics of aviation and you can even decide if you want to pursue a commercial licence or stay with your private licence.
As mentioned, some people find a PPL to be the best way to fulfil their flying needs. However, for people who want more and want to earn by flying, a Commercial Pilot Licence is the best way to go!
Focus on Building Your Flight Experience
What is the one thing that separates private pilots from commercial pilots? Experience and training. When you obtain your PPL, we urge you to continue focusing on building your flight experience.
Flight hours are a crucial metric in this regard which is why you will have to log as many hours as you can. The more you practice and run into different scenarios, the more likely you are to progress quickly in your journey to becoming a commercial pilot.
Make sure that you pick a flight school, like Sherburn Aero Club, that provides its students and members with access to various aircraft. The best way to train is to try your hand at operating different aircraft. This will not only help you get out of your comfort zone, but it will also build experience and intuition when it comes to flying aircraft.
Take on Certifications!
Commercial pilots have in-depth training, so if you want to ease your transition, you will have to train for various flying scenarios. As mentioned above, Instrument Ratings and Night Ratings are crucial for commercial pilots who usually fly in various weather and visibility conditions.
If all you do is fly during the daytime, then you will never be able to easily transition. Put in the work and get as many certifications as you can since the training and flight hours will carry forward when you finally transition!
When Ready, Go for a CPL
When you are ready, you can finally apply for a CPL. Keep in mind that a CPL requires 200 to 250 flight hours and various other requirements that you will have to fulfil when submitting your application. If you fail to produce the necessary documents related to your previous training and any other requirement outlined by the CAA, then you will likely get rejected and waste both time and money.
Make a list of all the documents required by the CAA and the EASA. We highly recommend that you take the help of your instructors who can guide and even prepare you for the process of obtaining your CPL.
Once you have submitted all the documents and paid all the relevant fees, you will have to wait until you hear back from the CAA.
Choose the Right Route for Your Career
When you finally get your Commercial Pilot Licence, you can almost immediately begin applying for jobs. There are several career choices that you can make. The first choice is to go for large airliners and become a pilot for a passenger aircraft. These jobs are great for people who are looking for relaxed work hours, and for people who like to travel the world.
CPL pilots employed by large airliners also enjoy a range of job benefits apart from their salary. Depending on your experience, you can begin as a first officer and then work your way up to a captain.
You can also go for an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) which you can think of as the ultimate licence for pilots. It is the most comprehensive licence and is a requirement if you want to become a captain. ATPL pilots have extensive experience, and you can expect them to have logged more than 1500 flight hours during their careers.
You can also go for type rating for the type of aircraft that you want to fly as a commercial pilot. This type of training is offered by the airliner, so you won’t have to train out of pocket, which is another huge benefit of becoming a commercial pilot.
Once you get settled in your role as a commercial pilot, you can continue learning and improving your skills. We recommend that you also attend seminars and other aviation-related events to meet other fellow pilots and to further your understanding of aviation!
WHY CHOOSE SHERBURN AERO CLUB
Sherburn Aero Club, which has been operational since 1964, is the ideal place for most of your training and flying needs. It is one of the largest flying clubs in the North of England and also one of the largest in the country.
If you wish to begin your career in aviation or wish to take to the skies as a hobby, Sherburn’s flight training school offers private and commercial licences, along with pilot medicals to ensure a smooth journey going forward.
For those who wish to experience the thrill of a flight for fun or to help fuel their aviation dreams, Sherburn offers experience flights for the newbie, as well as the veteran in various types of light aircraft.
With a large fleet of new aircraft and an airfield refurbishment with new runways, hangars, and an extended clubhouse, we cater to brand-new flyers who have just started their journey to the skies, as well as seasoned flyers who have been operating aircraft for decades.
The flight experience option is also available for people who wish to take to the skies for special occasions, even if they aren’t into aviation in the long run.
Sherburn offers a dedicated day-long Flight Radiotelephony Operator’s Licence (FRTOL) course for those wishing to get the certification, running the first Sunday of every month.
In addition to that, if you are looking for a hangarage for your own aircraft, need servicing or repairs, want to buy a new aircraft or aviation equipment, or are just looking to enjoy and watch the aircraft, Sherburn Aero Club is the place to be.
Call us at 01977 682 674, email us at flightdesk@sherburnaeroclub.com, or message us via our online contact form for more information on light aircraft, training requirements, fee structure, licencing procedures, as well as experience flights and pilot training at Sherburn.
