How to become a pilot?

Every flight leader starts somewhere. With the right mindset, training and guidance, you’ll go from aspiring pilot to mastering the skies.

Chart your course
Elevated view of Airbus aircraft, including A320, A330, and A350, lined up on the tarmac for a Family Day event.
Airbus A330-800 in flight during its first flight, seen from the side under clouds.

Build the competencies and expertise to become a pilot

YOUR PILOT POTENTIAL

Passion & personality

Becoming a pilot is not just about experience: it’s about motivation, teamwork and taking responsibility. A strong mindset, respect, resilience and dedication are what truly set future pilots apart.

Cadets board a Cirrus SR20 Airbus Flight Academy aircraft on Angoulême's airport tarmac at dusk

Basic requirements

Passion drives success but some requirements help you get started: Class 1 medical certificate, English proficiency, and solid maths and physics basics. No need to be a prodigy, training builds your competencies. With the right mindset, you’ll have all it takes to succeed.

Cadets following a theoretical ATPL course in an Airbus Flight Academy Europe classroom

Choose your pilot licence

GETTING STARTED

Choose the right pilot licence to build knowledge, skills and attitude needed for the aviation career of your dreams.

ATPL – Your comprehensive and efficient route to captain’s seat

The Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) is the most comprehensive licence for those aiming to fly as airline pilot. It provides advanced training in multi-crew operations, airline procedures, teamwork and leadership competencies. It also opens doors to airline careers, preparing you for the captain’s seat and long-term success in aviation.

MPL – Your fast track to airline-specific operations

The Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) is a customised programme and streamlined route to a particular airline, integrating its specific procedures and training requirements from day one. With a direct path to the right-hand seat, you will be ready to fly on one specific aircraft and one specific airline (until being eligible to upgrade your licence into an ATPL).

CPL – A flexible path to professional flying

The Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) enables you to become a professional pilot in charter, cargo, business aviation... It offers flexibility, empowering you to explore different sectors of the industry while building experience. Whether you are seeking an airline career or a specialised role, the CPL provides a solid foundation for career growth.

PPL – Your first gateway to the skies

The Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is perfect for those who dream of flying for personal enjoyment. It enables pilots to explore the skies recreationally and is often the first step towards a professional career. Whether you aim to fly solo or with passengers, the PPL gives you the freedom to experience aviation on your terms. However, it’s not a prerequisite for those wishing to pursue an MPL, CPL or ATPL.

A Diamond DA42 Airbus Flight Academy aircraft flying over Angoulême's region

Find the right training path for you

PILOT TRAINING PATHWAYS

Your pilot training path depends on your goals and lifestyle. The integrated full-time route offers a structured, immersive experience, while modular training provides flexibility to learn at your own pace.

• Integrated training: a full-time, continuous programme offering a comprehensive and engaging path to becoming an airline professional pilot.

• Modular training: a flexible option enabling you to train according to your schedule – ideal for those balancing multiple commitments.

Balancing knowledge, practice and hands-on experience

Master the foundations with theory

From navigation to meteorology, you will develop the theoretical expertise needed to make informed decisions and build a strong foundation for your flying career.

Smiling cadet talking to peers in an Airbus Flight Academy Europe classroom

Build your competencies with hands-on training

Turn theory into practice with passionate instructors who inspire and drive your progress. Build the competencies, mindset and confidence to face any situation – routine or unexpected, inside and beyond the cockpit.

Cadet inside of a Cirrus SR20 AFA aircraft, seen through the canopy on Angoulême's airport tarmac

Experts advice

TESTIMONIES

  • Portrait of an Airbus Flight Academy instructor, Antoine Malauzat, inside Airbus Flight Academy Europe campus

    Humility, it's something that is really important in order to become a pilot. The point is to be pragmatic and be able to understand what to use in which situation. Trust yourself: whatever difficulties you may face during your training, rest assured that we’re going to face them together to succeed in the end.

    Antoine Malauzat
    Flight & theoretical knowledge instructor
  • Portrait of Stéphan Labrucherie, Head of Training Airbus Worlwide, in the Airbus Safety Promotion Centre in Toulouse

    Passion is the main driver to launch a successful aviation career. It's a journey! You learn techniques and develop competencies to fly an aircraft, and transport people. If you have passion, if you’re a hard worker fully committed to this journey: a bright future awaits you!

    Captain Stéphan Labrucherie
    Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide
  • Smiling female cadet wearing Airbus Flight academy uniform in a Airbus Flight Academy Europe classroom

    To be a successful Airbus cadet, you need to be ready to learn from highly experienced people. We want to be more than just pilots: we want to evolve to become captains. This requires good crew communication, and the ability to share and decide in any situation. I mainly chose Airbus because the training also focuses on those aspects.

    Ambre
    Airbus cadet
  • Large group of cadets on Angoulême's airport tarmac in front of a Cirrus SR20 Airbus Flight Academy aircraft

    Why choose Airbus Flight Academy?

    Train with Airbus experts in a comprehensive programme designed for airline preparation. Gain top-tier instruction, cutting-edge training and global career opportunities.

Your questions answered

FAQ

Find answers to the most common questions about becoming a pilot and the essentials of modern pilot training.

What are the prerequisites to become a professional pilot?

To become a pilot, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma. A strong foundation in physics and maths, and proficiency in English (equivalent to B2 level) are essential to confidently pursuing your aviation studies. Additionally, a Class 1 medical certificate – valid in the country of your flight school – is required to ensure you meet the physical and mental fitness standards. Beyond academics, qualities like determination, teamwork and responsibility are key to success in this rewarding profession.

Do I need my ATP(L) before applying to airlines?

It depends on the airline and position you are applying for. Airlines typically require pilots to hold a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) with Multi crew cooperation (MCC) or an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL), or be in the process of obtaining one. The ATPL is one of the most rigorous paths, giving you the necessary competencies to confidently act as an airline captain or pilot-in-command on commercial flights.

How long does it take to get a pilot licence?

The duration to obtain a pilot licence varies based on the type of licence and training pathway, from approximately 7 months for a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) to around 2 years for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) or an ATPL integrated programme.

How long is the Airbus Pilot Cadet Training Programme?

The full course lasts approximately 2 years from start to completion.

Which aircraft can I fly after training?

After earning your Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL), you'll complete a Type Rating to specialise in piloting the specific aircraft you want to operate.

How much does a beginner pilot earn?

A First officer's salary ranges from €3,000 to €5,000 per month, depending on experience, rank, career path, flight mission and airline type.

What exclusive assets do Airbus cadets benefit from to start and carry out their training journey?

At Airbus Flight Academy, from selections to your final training session, every element is designed to drive your progress, performance and readiness for a professional aviation career, including:

  • A welcome package with iPad, logbook, uniform kits and goodies
  • Top-tier instruction with highly experienced experts, using latest training techniques, standards beyond regulations, modern aircraft, immersive simulators and high-end facilities
  • Individual supervision, daily support and continuous training reinforcement, ensuring an optimised preparation for required exams, training certifications and milestones

How does Airbus support cadets in mastering theoretical knowledge?

Cadets benefit from physical instructor-led classroom sessions and gain access to dedicated learning platforms like e-ATPL, featuring the latest technical inputs and high-quality educational resources designed to deepen understanding and accelerate progress.

Is there a community for Airbus cadets to assist them and connect professionally?

Yes, cadets can join the Airbus Flight Academy Alumni network, offering mutual assistance, access to exclusive resources, forums, professional events and job opportunities – while building the crucial network of a rewarding professional career.

What language is used throughout the Airbus Pilot Cadet Programme?

All training is delivered in English, reflecting real-world aviation standards and preparing cadets from around the world for international airline operations.