Our Airline Pilot Program for U.S. Students

US Students Airline Program

What are the requirements to begin flight training?

Professional pilot commercial airline training can begin at the age of 16. Additionally, you must meet these requirements:

  • First, you must be 16 years old.
  • Also, you must have a high school diploma or equivalency.
  • Also, you must be legally eligible to work in the U.S.
  • Most importantly, you must be able to obtain an FAA medical certificate.
  • Finally, you must be able to communicate proficiently in English.

What is the cost of professional pilot commercial airline training?

Airline Pilot Program – Domestic Students

Zero Experience to Airline Pilot
Total Course Tuition $74,583.00 USD

Starting with Instrument Course
Total Course Tuition $45,761.00 USD

Starting with Commercial Course
Total Course Tuition $28,708.50 USD

Get Started!

How long does it take to become an airline pilot?

Epic Airline Pilot Program

The average length of time to complete training, build flight time as an instructor, and become an airline pilot is 24 months. However, this depends on many factors, including the individual student. Many Epic students have achieved this goal much more quickly. Others required a little longer due to other factors. You can view our U.S. student profiles to see the range of dates it took each student to achieve their milestones in training.

Does Epic maintain relationships with airlines to hire Epic-trained pilots?

Yes! We have many airline partners to provide many hiring options for Epic graduates. We also host Pilot Career Seminars on campus so you can meet face-to-face with airline representatives during your training period.

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Become a Professional Pilot!

What is the course sequence for the Airline Pilot Program for U.S. Students?

Our Airline Pilot Program is an accelerated Part 141 flight training package for students that are consistently able to fly full-time, which is a minimum of 5 days per week and 5 hours per day. For students that require scheduling accommodations due to other commitments, such as employment or university education, we offer training under Part 61 instruction. Part 61 allows a more flexible schedule, but it also extends the estimated completion time. As per FAA requirements, all Airline Transport Pilots (ATPs) must have met the requirements of the 1,500 hour rule. This means you must have logged 1,500 hours total in order to fly for passenger and cargo airlines. The steps required to become a professional pilot for a commercial airline are:

What is the Program Sequence?

Professional pilot commercial airline training requires a full-time commitment. You must be available seven days a week. We student availability of five days per calendar week (must be available for four consecutive hours between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.) and a minimum 20 days per month. Epic strives to provide two days off per week, but flexibility is required due to weather, maintenance, and other factors outside of Epic’s control. Our experience indicates that leaving longer than a week is detrimental to completion rates and tuition costs. Any leave must be approved by Course Managers. We are here to provide you with the greatest opportunity to meet course deadlines and achieve your career goals!

1) Private Pilot

Private Pilot: First of all, the Virtual Flight Academy provides online interactive pilot training. Aviation Skill Development (ASD) is part of Ground School. The purpose of ASD is to familiarize students with the Cessna 172 and the New Smyrna Beach Airport. Most importantly, ASD increases students’ safety and awareness.This course covers flight training Visual Flight Rules (VFR). We teach this in conjunction with the ASD and Ground School. Also, you can start flight simulator training. As a result, you will learn basic aerodynamics and FAA regulations. Similarly, you will learn aircraft weight & balance and aircraft performance. After successful completion, you will be able to fly a single-aircraft solo in VFR conditions. Learn more about our Private Pilot Course.

2) Instrument Rating

Instrument Pilot: This course covers flight training Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). For example, you’ll learn procedures specific to instrument flying. Also, you’ll receive additional instruction in meteorology. Furthermore, you can expect more intensive training in flight solely by reference to instruments. After successful completion, you will be able to fly a single-aircraft solo in IFR conditions. Learn more about our Instrument Pilot Course.

3) Commercial Single-Engine

Commercial Single-Engine: This course covers flight training IFR in a single-engine complex aircraft. Furthermore, you will meet commercial pilot standards. After successful completion of the commercial course, you will be able to fly a single-engine complex aircraft in IFR conditions.

4) Certified Flight Instructor

CFI: This two-month course includes simulator training and spin endorsement. At completion of the CFI course, you’ll be certified to work as a paid flight instructor.

5) Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument

CFII: This three-week course includes both aeronautical knowledge and flight training. Training includes flight training device (FTD). Upon completion, you can teach instrument flight students. At this point, we offer many of our graduates a paid position as a CFII.

6) Multi-Engine Commercial

Multi-Engine Commercial: This course covers flight training IFR in a multi-engine aircraft. Similarly, you will meet commercial pilot standards After successful completion, you will be able to command a multi-engine aircraft in IFR conditions.

7) Multi-Engine Instructor

MEI: Upon completion of this three-week course you will have the qualifications and credentials to teach students in Multi-Engine courses. As a paid instructor, you will log hours toward the 1500 required by commercial airlines.

How does Epic help me become an airline pilot?

By prioritizing safety and minimizing course completion times, Epic Flight Academy’s Airline Pilot Program allows students to go from zero flight experience to airline pilot in as little as two years. Our expedited Airline Direct Program can have you flying professionally in one year. We have trained pilots to fly for more than 300 airlines. Whether you have had no exposure to pilot training or are transferring from another training facility, we offer our students high quality flight training in a new-generation aircraft fleet, preparing you for the aviation careers of your dreams. Most importantly, financing options are available if needed.

FAQs domestic professional pilot commercial airline training

What are the most frequently asked questions about flight training?

We receive many questions from domestic students and responded to the most frequently asked questions to help you make the best decision for you. Below are the three most common questions:

Q: What are the age requirements to become an airline pilot?

A: Students may begin flight training at any age, but the FAA requires pilots be at least 16 years old to solo an aircraft, and 17 years old to get a Private Pilot Certificate. To be hired as a commercial pilot, you will need to be at least 18 years old and have logged the hours required by the airline. So, if you are 16, you can begin professional pilot commercial airline training.

Q: Do I need a college degree to become an airline pilot?

A: Most airlines do not require a college degree. However, some do, and having one can give you a hiring advantage. Epic is proud to provide a college degree program through Daytona State College for flight students who want to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree while learning to fly. This is not required; however, we are proud to make this available to our flight students.

Q: Why should I choose Epic Flight Academy to train as a professional pilot:

A: Students from all over the United States and more than 80 countries choose Epic Flight Academy for pilot training in order to pursue their aviation career dreams. Our new aircraft fleet is one reason. Also, Epic’s safety record and highly skilled flight instructors are another reason. Our pilot school began flight training in 1999, and thousands of Epic Professional Pilot graduates are thriving today in their aviation careers with more than 300 airlines worldwide. Learn to fly with us!

Are pilot salaries still on the rise?

Yes! For example, in 2023, the median airline pilot salary was $219,140. Salaries vary by country, airline, and type of aircraft. However, pilots remain well paid around the globe with continued employment security. Furthermore, upon completion of your flight training at Epic, you may transfer your flight training hours toward an associate’s degree. Our college degree program with Daytona State College is open to all students. This is not required, but we are happy to make this available to our flight students. A college degree can positively impact a pilot’s earning potential. Therefore, we encourage you to consider this option,.

What if I have other questions about professional pilot commercial airline training?

You can view our Frequently Asked Questions. Also, you can post questions and comments in our Pilot Forum. We are here to help and look forward to answering your questions. You are welcome to contact us anytime!

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