Decide the pilot path: commercial airline pilot, regional airline pilot, charter, private pilot, or military
Check prerequisites (typical requirements: age limits, medical eligibility, English proficiency)
Start with the required medical certificate for your target career (e.g., FAA Class 1 for airline; follow your country’s rules)
Choose a training country/authority and select an approved flight school or instructor
Begin with Private Pilot training (PPL) to build core flying skills
Accumulate required flight hours and training milestones for the PPL
Pass the PPL written/knowledge exams and practical flight test
Obtain an instrument rating (IR) to fly in instrument meteorological conditions
Build toward commercial pilot training (CPL) or equivalent certification
Meet experience requirements for CPL/ATPL progression (hours, cross-country, night, instrument time as required)
Pass CPL/ATPL written/knowledge exams and practical flight tests
Complete a Multi-Engine Rating (ME) if required for your path
Build additional required experience (including PIC time, cross-country, and night as required)
Choose an airline/ATPL route: integrated, modular, or airline-sponsored training (if available)
Complete ATPL theory exams (if your country uses ATPL theory) and required flight training
Obtain the required type rating(s) for the aircraft you will operate (after hiring or during airline training)
Log simulator training and checkrides required by your employer or authority
Apply for jobs: flight instructor, charter/co-pilot roles, regional airlines, cadet programs
Prepare for selection steps (interviews, background checks, assessments) and maintain currency
Maintain required medicals, logbooks, and pilot proficiency
Keep certifications current (recurrent training, renewals, and recurrent checks)