Complete Pilot Training Guide 2026: From High School to Airline Captain - Academies, Licenses, Salaries & Full Career Roadmap

Introduction: Your Dream of Flying Is Within Reach

Have you ever looked at the sky and wished you were the one piloting that aircraft? Have you dreamed of wearing the pilot uniform and sitting in the cockpit? The good news is that this dream is closer than ever!

The aviation industry is experiencing massive growth. According to Boeing's 2024 report, the world needs 674,000 new pilots over the next twenty years. The Middle East alone needs 68,000 pilots! This means endless job opportunities and attractive salaries reaching up to 120,000 SAR monthly.

Even better? You don't need a university degree to become a pilot! You can start directly after high school. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you step by step from zero to sitting in the cockpit of a commercial aircraft.

First: Can I Become a Pilot? Basic Requirements

Before you start your journey, let's make sure you meet the basic requirements:

Age Requirements

The minimum age to start training is 17 years for Private Pilot License (PPL). For Commercial Pilot License (CPL), you must be at least 18 years old. For Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), you need to be at least 23 years old. The maximum age at most academies is 35, but some accept older applicants.

Education Requirements

High school diploma is the minimum requirement. Scientific track with good grades in mathematics and physics is preferred. A university degree is NOT required! This is a very important point, as many young people believe they need university first.

English Language Requirements

English is the global language of aviation. You must be able to read, write, speak, and understand at a good level. Most academies require ICAO Level 4 or equivalent. Some academies require IELTS 6.0 minimum. If your English is weak, don't worry, most academies offer foundational English programs.

Medical Requirements

This requirement is crucial. You must pass the Class 1 Medical examination issued by a GACA-approved medical examiner. The examination includes vision test where visual acuity must be 6/9 in each eye with or without glasses. Also hearing test and ability to hear conversation from 2 meters distance. It includes ECG heart examination, comprehensive blood tests, and psychological evaluation. Don't worry, more than 90% of applicants pass the medical examination!

Other Requirements

No prior flying experience is required as programs are designed for complete beginners. You must be eligible for a study visa if training abroad. Some Saudi academies require legal residency in the Kingdom.

Second: Types of Pilot Licenses

There are several types of licenses, each opening different doors for you:

Sport Pilot License (SPL)

This is the simplest license for hobbyists. Requires only 20 flight hours. Allows you to fly light aircraft with two seats. You cannot fly at night or in bad weather conditions. Suitable for those who want to fly as a hobby only.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

The starting point for any serious pilot. Requires minimum 40 flight hours including 20 hours with instructor and 10 hours solo flight. Allows you to fly small aircraft and carry passengers. You cannot work as a paid pilot. Ideal as a first step toward professional career or as an advanced hobby.

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

This license opens the door to employment. Requires 200-250 flight hours. Including 100 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC). Includes instrument rating (IR) training and multi-engine aircraft. Qualifies you to work as First Officer at airlines. Expected salary starts from 18,000 SAR monthly.

Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

The highest license in civil aviation. Requires 1,500 flight hours in America and only 250 hours in Europe and the Gulf. You must be at least 23 years old. Qualifies you to be Captain on large commercial aircraft. Salary reaches 80,000-120,000 SAR monthly!

Additional Ratings

Besides basic licenses, there are important additional ratings. Instrument Rating (IR) is essential for flying in low visibility conditions. Multi-Engine Rating for flying aircraft with more than one engine. Type Rating to qualify on specific aircraft types like Boeing 737 or Airbus A320. Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) license for training new pilots.

Third: Complete Roadmap - From Zero to Airlines

Here's the complete path to becoming an airline pilot:

Phase One: Preparation (1-3 months)

Start by improving your English if it's weak. Take the Class 1 medical examination early to ensure your eligibility. Research flight schools and compare them in terms of cost, duration, and reputation. Prepare required documents such as high school certificate and national ID. Save the necessary budget or look for financing options.

Phase Two: Registration and Admission

Apply to your chosen academy. Pass admission tests which usually include aptitude test, personal interview, and medical examination. Some academies require psychological tests and personality assessments. Pay registration fees and reserve your seat.

Phase Three: Ground School (3-6 months)

This phase is entirely theoretical and includes Aerodynamics and how aircraft fly. Aircraft Systems such as engines, electrical, and hydraulics. Navigation and map reading and GPS usage. Meteorology and understanding weather and its effect on flight. Air Law and regulations. Flight Planning. Human Factors.

Phase Four: Practical Flight Training (6-12 months)

Here the real fun begins! You start with small single-engine aircraft like Cessna 172 or Diamond DA40. You learn takeoff, landing, and basic maneuvers. You progress to Solo Flight. Then you move to instrument flying using instruments only. Finally, training on multi-engine aircraft.

Phase Five: Examinations and License Acquisition

Comprehensive written examination on theoretical subjects. Practical examination (Checkride) with a certified aviation authority examiner. Upon passing, you receive your CPL license.

Phase Six: Building Hours (6-24 months)

This is the most important and longest phase. Airlines typically require minimum 1,500 flight hours. How do you build these hours? Working as a Flight Instructor (CFI) which is the most common option. Agricultural flying and banner towing. Cargo flying and aerial photography. Charter flying. Some Saudi academies like OxfordSaudia offer direct employment programs as instructors.

Phase Seven: Applying to Airlines

After completing required hours, apply to airlines. Pass admission tests and interviews. Obtain Type Rating on the aircraft type you'll fly. Start working as First Officer. With experience, you advance to Captain position!

Fourth: Flight Schools in Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has several excellent academies accredited by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA):

OxfordSaudia Flight Academy

Located at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam. Considered one of the best academies in the region. Partnership with the prestigious Oxford Aviation Academy which has 75 years of experience. Accredited under GACAR Part 141. Program cost approximately 120,000 SAR equivalent to $32,000. Program duration 2.5 to 3 years. Flight hours approximately 250 hours. Aircraft used are modern European Diamond aircraft. Offers Training Leading to Employment program as flight instructor. Provides monthly payment plans starting from 5,950 SAR. Accepts Saudi citizens and residents of both genders.

Saudi Aviation Flight Academy (SAFA)

Located at Thumamah Airport north of Riyadh, 28 km from King Khalid Airport. Accredited by GACA under Part 141. Offers PPL, CPL, and IR licenses. Uses modern Diamond DA40 and DA42 aircraft. Provides advanced simulators. Professional training environment with expert instructors. Accepts Saudi citizens and residents.

The National Aviation Academy (TAYARAN)

Located at Thumamah Airport in Riyadh. Non-profit institution chaired by Prince Sultan bin Salman. Partnership with Aramco, Saudi Airlines, and other government entities. Offers pilot training, aircraft maintenance technician, and drone programs. Foundation year cost approximately $17,600 with 25% discount for distinguished students. Program duration up to 3 years. Internationally accredited programs.

Saudi Aviation Club (SAC)

Suitable for hobbyists and beginners. Offers Sport Pilot and Private Pilot licenses. Hourly cost from 950 to 1,500 SAR depending on aircraft type. Must be a club member. Present in several Saudi cities.

Prince Sultan Aviation Academy (PSAA)

Specializes in advanced training and Type Ratings. Associated with Saudia Airlines. Offers training on Full Flight Simulators. Ideal for pilots who want to qualify on specific aircraft.

Fifth: Best Flight Schools Worldwide

If you're considering studying outside Saudi Arabia, here are the best options:

United States of America

America has over 600 FAA-approved flight schools. Advantages include relatively low costs, excellent weather for training, and FAA licenses recognized worldwide.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Considered the best aviation university in the world. Located in Florida and Arizona. Offers university degrees with flight training. Huge fleet of aircraft. Graduates work at the largest airlines.

Epic Flight Academy

Located in Florida. Largest FAA Part 141 school in America. Special program for Saudi and Arab students. Program duration approximately 8 months. Cost approximately $34,000. English language support available.

ATP Flight School

Largest provider of pilots to American airlines. Fast and intensive programs. Partnerships with airlines for employment.

AeroGuard Flight Training Center

Located in Arizona. Special program for Saudis called AeroGuardArabia. Accredited by the Saudi Cultural Mission (SACM). Partnership with Arizona State University for bachelor's degree.

United Arab Emirates

Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA)

Subsidiary of Emirates Group. Located in Dubai with private airport and 1,800-meter runway. Latest training technologies in collaboration with Boeing. Cost approximately $181,650 including accommodation and meals. Program duration 104 weeks or about two years. Fleet of 32 training aircraft. Training on Cirrus SR22 aircraft then Embraer Phenom 100 jets. Opportunity to apply to Emirates directly after graduation.

Europe

CAE Oxford Aviation Academy

Present in several countries including UK, Spain, and Belgium. Over 50 years of experience. Trains more than 2,000 students annually. EASA licenses recognized throughout Europe. Partnerships with easyJet and Ryanair.

Lufthansa Aviation Training

Subsidiary of Lufthansa Group in Germany. High-quality training with German standards. Employment opportunities in Lufthansa companies.

Sixth: Expected Costs

Let's be frank, learning to fly requires significant financial investment. But it's worth it!

Training Costs in Saudi Arabia

OxfordSaudia costs approximately 120,000 SAR for complete CPL program. Saudi Aviation Club costs 950 to 1,500 SAR per hour. TAYARAN foundation year costs approximately 66,000 SAR.

Training Costs in America

Complete program from zero to CPL costs $60,000 to $100,000. Add living and accommodation costs of approximately $1,000-1,500 monthly.

Training Costs in UAE

Emirates Flight Training Academy costs $181,650 all-inclusive. Other UAE academies range from 75,000 to 300,000 AED.

Training Costs in Europe

UK costs £90,000 to £127,000. Spain and Eastern Europe are relatively cheaper.

Tips for Saving Costs

Look for scholarship programs available at some academies. Take advantage of financing and installment programs. Some airlines fund pilot training in exchange for employment (Cadet Programs). Train in cheaper countries then convert the license. Work as a flight instructor to cover hour-building costs.

Seventh: Salaries and Career Future

Here comes the good news! Pilot salaries are among the highest in the world.

Pilot Salaries in Saudi Arabia

Saudia Airlines

First Officer earns 18,000 to 30,000 SAR monthly. Captain earns 45,000 to 80,000 SAR monthly. Plus housing allowances, health insurance, travel tickets, and retirement benefits.

Riyadh Air

The new airline starting operations soon offers very attractive salaries. First Officer on 787 aircraft earns up to 65,000 SAR monthly. Narrow-body Captain earns up to 115,000 SAR monthly. Wide-body Captain earns up to 120,000 SAR monthly! Plus luxury housing, international schools for 3 children, 20 annual travel tickets, Ramadan bonus, and 5% annual raise.

Flynas and Flyadeal

Competitive salaries and rapid growth opportunities as expanding companies.

Pilot Salaries Globally

Emirates offers salaries from $18,000 to $35,000 monthly tax-free. Major American airlines offer salaries reaching $350,000 annually for experienced captains. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, median airline pilot salary is $226,600 annually.

Job Opportunities

Demand for pilots is at its highest levels. Saudi Arabia has started Saudization program for pilot profession at 60-70%. New companies like Riyadh Air will provide thousands of jobs. Global aviation sector needs 674,000 new pilots by 2043.

Eighth: Differences Between Licensing Systems

There are several global licensing systems, and it's important to understand the differences:

FAA - America

License never expires. Requires 1,500 hours to work at American airlines. Cheapest training cost. Easy to convert to other systems.

EASA - Europe

Recognized in all European Union countries. Can start as First Officer with only 250 hours. Strict in standards but excellent in quality.

GACA - Saudi Arabia

Accredited locally and regionally. Compatible with ICAO international standards. FAA and EASA licenses can be converted to it.

GCAA - UAE

Internationally recognized. Can convert to and from FAA and EASA.

Ninth: The 1,500-Hour Rule

In America, there's an important rule you should know:

After the tragic Colgan Air 2009 accident, the FAA imposed a rule requiring 1,500 flight hours before working as a First Officer at American airlines. This means after obtaining CPL with 250 hours, you need to build an additional 1,250 hours!

How Do You Build These Hours?

Working as a Flight Instructor (CFI) is the most common option where you earn money and build hours at the same time. Agricultural flying and crop spraying. Banner towing. Aerial photography and surveying. Light cargo flying. Expected duration is 12 to 24 months to build these hours.

Rule Exceptions

Graduates of accredited aviation university programs can start with only 1,000 hours. Military pilots can start with 750 hours. Holders of accredited aviation diplomas can start with 1,250 hours.

In Europe and the Gulf

Things are completely different! You can join an airline as First Officer with only 250 hours after obtaining Frozen ATPL. You build your hours while actually working at the airline.

Tenth: Golden Tips for Success

Before Starting

Make sure flying is your true passion and not just attraction to high salaries. Try a Discovery Flight before committing. Talk to current pilots about the reality of the profession. Prepare yourself financially and mentally for a long journey.

During Training

Commit to the schedule and don't miss lessons. Study hard, theory is as important as practice. Don't be shy to ask questions and seek help. Practice on simulators as much as possible. Build relationships with your colleagues and instructors.

After Graduation

Never stop learning, aviation is an ever-evolving science. Stay updated on latest technologies and regulations. Expand your professional network. Be patient, the path may be long but the reward is worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I become a pilot directly after high school?

Yes! A university degree is not required. You can register at a flight school immediately after completing high school and reaching 17 years old.

Does poor vision prevent me from becoming a pilot?

Not necessarily! You can wear glasses or contact lenses as long as your corrected visual acuity is 6/9 or better. Corrective surgeries like LASIK are accepted after a recovery period.

Can women become pilots?

Absolutely! All Saudi academies accept females. There are Saudi women pilots working at local airlines. The profession is open to everyone.

How long does it take to become an airline pilot?

In Saudi Arabia and Europe, you can join an airline within 2-3 years from starting. In America, you need 3-5 years due to the 1,500-hour rule.

Can I work in any country with one license?

Licenses can be converted between systems, but require procedures. FAA license is easiest to convert globally. EASA is recognized throughout Europe. GACA is recognized regionally.

What if I fail the medical examination?

Some conditions can be treated and you can reapply. There are medical waivers for some conditions. If unsuccessful, you can work in other aviation fields like air traffic control or aircraft maintenance.

Is aviation a secure career?

Yes! Demand for pilots is at its highest level historically. Global pilot shortage exists. High and stable salaries. Guaranteed retirement at most companies.

Conclusion

Becoming a pilot is not a distant dream. With determination, proper planning, and appropriate investment, you can sit in the cockpit of a commercial aircraft within a few years.

The market is at its best. Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in the aviation sector with Vision 2030. New companies like Riyadh Air are looking for Saudi pilots. Salaries are attractive reaching 120,000 SAR monthly. And most importantly, you don't need a university degree to start!

Start today. Find the right academy for you. Take the medical examination. Plan your budget. And launch toward the sky!

The sky is not the limit, it's just the beginning ✈️