How Long Does It Take To Become a Pilot in Australia?

How long does it take to become a pilot in Australia? This depends on what your career goals are.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Pilot?

The length of time you must study to become a full-fledged pilot is directly related to what type of licence you want to obtain. There are three types of aviation licences in Australia.

Recreational Pilot Licence

A Recreational Pilot Licence is the fastest to obtain, and it takes most students an average of three month to complete the requirements for one flying at least twice per week. This allows you to fly within the local training area with a passenger but no further. You need 25 hours of flight time to receive this license.

Private Pilot Licence

A Private Pilot Licence takes most students an average of six months to complete the requirements for one. This allows you to fly anywhere in Australia with passengers but not to charge customers for flights. You need 40 hours of flight time to receive this licence.

Commercial Pilot Licence

A Commercial Pilot Licence normally takes one to two years to obtain and allows you to be paid for your flight services. This licence also allows you to work for some charter & tourist operations as well as look to become an instructor. To receive a CPL, you must complete 150 hours of flight time when on an official course. Most airlines will generally require at least 1,500 hours of flight time, including 500 hours of multi engine experience, before you can apply.

Airline Transport Pilot Licence

Certain airlines require an Airline Transport Pilot Licence for specific positions in Australia. This allows you to pilot or co-pilot in a regular public transport flight operation. To obtain this, you must have a Commercial Pilot Licence, pass the seven theory exams and have minimum 1,500 hours experience. 

What Are the Steps for Becoming a Pilot?

There are several steps you need to take to become a pilot in Australia. How long it takes you varies depending on where you're starting and the approach you take.

1. Higher School Certificate

The first and most basic step is to gain a higher school certificate. You don’t necessarily need a university degree or diploma in aviation, though this is an option.

2. Flying Organisation

There are many aero clubs and flying schools in Australia. To find the right fit for you, you should find out which schools match your professional goals. The school will help you complete training and flight hours as well as written exams necessary for your licence. Then the flight school will organise a practical flight test. Once you pass, you can start accumulating your solo flight hours.

3. ARN and Medical Certificate

The Australian government assigns you an aviation reference number to help regulate those who fly. You must have an ARN before you fly solo, as well as a medical certificate. Class 1 certificates are for commercial pilots and Class 2 are for private pilots.

4. Solo Flight Hours

Now you can fly solo under the direction of an instructor to complete your hours. The number of hours depends on the type of licence you want.

5. Practical Exam

Once you complete your hours, you can take the practical flight exam, and once you pass, you can receive your licence.

Choosing a Flight School

How long does it take to become a pilot in total? It could take anywhere from six months to three years. Much of that depends on finding a quality flight school like Holmes Institute Aviation that can help you through the entire process and get you in the air. Find out more about our flight courses on our website.

‍