Civil Aviation Training Progression
A very general progression list intended to provide you with a sense of different levels of pilot training (training in order of listing). This by no means is comprehensive since pilot certifications, ratings, and endorsements can vary widely depending on an individual's interests and experiences. Detailed requirements for pilot certificates, ratings, and endorsement are found in FAR/AIM (Federal Aviation Regulation/Aeronautical Information Manual) which every pilot should own. We attached a few links in the bottom so that you can explore the details and regulations.
1. Student pilot certificate (This is included with your first medical certificate)
2. Private pilot certificate (You can carry passengers now!)
2. Private pilot certificate (You can carry passengers now!)
- Instrument rating (For flying in low visibility conditions)
- CFI rating (Endorsed for flight instruction for private pilots)
- CFII rating (Endorsed for flight instruction for private pilots seeking instrument ratings)
- Multi-Engine rating
- MEI rating (Endorsed for flight instruction of commercial-certificated pilots seeking multi-engine rating)
Here are some of the articles we like detailing how to become a pilot and beyond.
- AOPA: How to become a private pilot?
- Rotor Aviation: Becoming a helicopter pilot and beyond
- Soaring Society of America: Glider flying
- Jet Careers: Day in life of a major airline pilot