How to Become a Pilot in the Philippines?

Do you wanna be a pilot? What are the requirements? Make your dreams come true. Soar higher. Become a licensed pilot in the Philippines. A pilot job is one of the most rewarding aviation careers and professions in the world. There are different ways on how become a licensed and registered pilot in the country and I’m gonna lay out the ways in this page.

Due to insistent public demand and lots of inquiries from my Best Flight Schools in the Philippines article, I’m here to discuss the ways on how to become a pilot in the Philippines. Many are still asking me questions like, what course should I take to be a pilot? How can I become a pilot in the Philippines? Do I need a degree to be working as a pilot? And many more related questions. So here are the ways:

How to Become a Pilot in the Philippines

To become a pilot and to work as a pilot, one must have a license and certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and pass the Aviation Training Organization (ATO) requirements to hold a certificate. Either you want to become a licensed Private Pilot or a licensed Commercial Pilot.

how to become pilot in the philippines

Private Pilot vs Commercial Pilot – What’s the Difference?

Private Pilot – if you are a licensed private pilot, you are allowed to operate and fly an aircraft for private and enjoyment purposes. You may carry passengers or rent an aircraft, a private plane but you may not be compensated for the services as a pilot. There are limitations though compared when you are a commercial pilot. In short, a private pilot cannot really work for hire.

Commercial Pilot – you can’t become a licensed commercial pilot unless you are a licensed private pilot. Once you’re a commercial pilot, you are allowed to be paid for flying an aircraft to carry cargo and passengers. You can become a flight instructor, charter pilot or cargo pilot, too. This is the start for a real career in aviation. You’ll have more potential to work in a big airline company once you have gone for Multi-Engine Ratings, other modern flight instruments and equipments and have gained longer hours of flights.

How to become a Private Pilot? What are the requirements?

To become a licensed private pilot and have all the benefits of being one, you must undergo and pass the Private Pilot Training Course also known as, PPL course which is usually up to six months. In order to have a license you must become certified as a fully-fledged Private Pilot by the ATO. The requirements for having the license are listed below. You must successfully complete and pass the general exam and actual flight exam/ checkride.

  • Minimum of 17 years of age
  • Fluent in English, oral and written
  • Hold at least a current 3rd Class Medical Certificate
  • Pass the ATO Knowledge (General) Test
  • Pass the ATO Practical Flight Test and Oral Examination (Checkride)

From the PPL training, there are also some documents required from its flight school. Usually, they are the same as those that are required from entering secondary schooling. The PPL course usually covers subjects such as theory of flight, civil air regulations, basic aircraft instrument and power plant, air traffic control and communications, basic aircraft performance, basic weight and balance, basic meteorology, aviation physiology, basic air navigation, basic radio navigation and basic flight planning.

You must also complete the required flight training time which is a minimum of 40 hours of widespread flight training which includes dual and solo instruction for basic airman-ship, cross-country navigation, and emergency procedures. This 40 hours of flight time consists of at least 20 hours of Dual flight instruction, at least 10 hours of Solo flight ( 5 hours of Solo local flight and 5 hours of Solo cross-country), and 10 hours of which can be Solo flights or Dual.

How to become a Commercial Pilot? What are the requirements?

As I mentioned, an important requirement to become a licensed commercial pilot is a private pilot certificate. Meaning, you can’t become a Commercial Pilot if you don’t have a Private Pilot license. Just like the requirements in the PPL, you must pass a general knowledge exam and actual flight exam in order to become a commercial pilot and enjoy the benefits and compensations you can have in the aviation profession.

A commercial pilot training course CPL course can prepare and help you pass the test. To sum up the requirements, here they are:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Hold a Private Pilot Certificate or meet requirements
  • Fluent in English both oral and written
  • Must hold a valid 1 st Class Medical Certificate
  • Pass the ATO Knowledge (General) Test
  • Pass the ATO Practical Flight Test and Oral Examination (Check ride)

You have to undergo a CPL course to prepare you to excel and pass the CPL requirements. It’s also usually in a period of 6 months. Flight schools cover the course to advanced subjects mentioned in the PPL training. In addition, you must complete a minimum of 150 logged hours of flight time which includes advanced commercial maneuvers and emergency procedure.

Bachelors Degree in Aviation Major in Flying

This is another option to become a licensed pilot in the Philippines. It’s a four-year-degree-course that covers aviation curriculum and covers both PPL course and CPL course. It will really prepare you to your dream aviation and pilot career.

A Bachelors Degree would be more impressive to airline companies and employers though expertise is always the most priority. There are another aviation degrees that could make you a pilot, you just have to choose what suits your major and preference.

Related article:

Interview with an Aeronautic Engineer

Fehl is the founder of Philpad. She has a degree in Accountancy and a background in Finance. She is a licensed Career Service Professional and author of a poetry book at Barnes & Noble. In her spare time, she likes to travel and vlog.

758 thoughts on “How to Become a Pilot in the Philippines?”

  1. Dear Cian,

    Getting a Bachelor’s degree (any 4-year course) will make you qualified to apply to become an airline pilot, but will not guarantee your employment since there are others also vying for the position.

    That being said, to become a pilot, an applicant has to be at least 16 years old and enroll in any Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-accredited flight school as a Student Pilot, where you will enter Ground School or classroom instruction regarding the principles behind flight, weather, flight rules, mechanism of an aircraft, etc. and after passing the subject exams, proceed to Flight School or actual sit-in-the-aircraft-and-operate-the-controls flight instruction with a Flight Instructor beside you in the right seat. You will be flying the aircraft.

    After the requisite number of flight hours, apply for your Private Pilot License with CAAP, pass the tests (written exam and practical exam), get your PPL and gain required flight hours and instruction needed for Commercial Pilot License. Get your Instrument Rating, maybe a Multi-Engine Aircraft Rating, then apply for CPL with CAAP, pass the….. etc., etc.

    Takes time and money, both in large amounts. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and even God needed 6 days to make the world.

    Eyes on the prize, child. Eyes on the prize.

    Reply
  2. Dear Gian Piolo,

    After graduating and getting your degree in AMT, you can go straight to Ground School and learn the academic aspect of flying, before proceeding to Flight School for the actual flight instruction. Having an AMT license helps you get familiar with the process of getting a pilot’s license, and aside from that, you will be fully qualified to fix the very same airplane you will fly, thus guaranteeing that in the highly unlikely event of an uncontrolled landing, it won’t be a mechanical problem that caused the crash. He he he.

    In all seriousness, you don’t need a bachelor’s degree to become a pilot unless your goal is really to aim for the airlines, because everyone thinks that having a very big fat salary as an airline pilot is the best, without realizing that the airline pilots are paid a large amount because they give up a lot in return.

    Remember, there are many pilot jobs available, and some pilot jobs are more relaxed than working for the airlines. Some pilot jobs may not pay as big a salary as the airlines, but you only work for a few hours a day, whereas other jobs may pay larger than the airlines but you only work for a few days a month. Airline pilots often give up holidays, anniversaries, and other significant events in their family lives because of their work schedule.

    Find the balance that fits your life and realize what is more valuable: time or money. But remember this, money comes and goes, but time is fleeting.

    Reply
  3. Hi Capt. I’m going to be a first year college this school year and I take 2 years course of Aircraft Maintenance Technology, after that when I graduated, can I go or can I enroll in other school to take bachelor of science in aviation major in flying? Please help me what am I supposed to do to make my dream come true to becoming a pilot?

    Reply
    • Dear Jagm,

      You will not find in the government regulations any stipulation for height requirements for a commercial pilot (or any kind of pilot, for that matter).

      Some airline companies may list a minimum height requirement, but I know of many pilots who are just 5 feet tall. And the military has even more stringent body dimensions
      for their fighter aircraft pilot-trainees, but that has more to do with the cramped space inside those cockpits.

      As for the commercial airlines, I guess because tall people in uniform simply look better?

      But to reiterate, there is no minimum height requirement for pilots. In fact, astronauts (who start out as pilots) have to be of small stature due to medical requirements and weight constraints.

      Reply
  4. Hi Cap! How are you doing?

    Due to the current pandemic, most colleges/universities are not opening yet and we’ve been getting so much free time. And it doesn’t look like they are opening or holding physical classes anytime soon.

    So I thought, why not take advantage of all this free time to start my journey in flying little by little?

    So this is my situation:
    (I hope you don’t mind a long story)

    I’m a fresh graduate of Senior High.

    I’m planning to take BS Comp Sci in a really good university in Metro Manila. But the school has mentioned that due to the current events, it is very unlikely that the school will open its classroom doors for a while this year. Thus, we will have online classes from wherever we are in the country. (I am from Iloilo City)

    I messaged my local flying school and surprisingly they are still open. So I thought it would be a good idea to take my PPL course in my city while waiting for college, and continue on to CPL and instrument ratings in another flying school, in another time, and in another city where my university is located. Would this be a good idea? And is it okay to get a PPL in one school and the rest from another school?

    Also, additional question: I’ve been told that a PPL is valid for 24 months (2 years). If I can’t get my CPL within that 24 months, what is the process of renewing my PPL? Do I have to pay the giant fees again for renewal?

    Any questions, clarifications, suggestions, or violent reactions? I’m open to all. Thank you in advance!

    Reply
    • Dear Daniel,

      Getting a pilot’s license during this period is the best time since there’s really nothing else to do! Lots of days to fly and gain the needed flight time for each license.

      As to getting a PPL from one school then the CPL from another school, that’s up to you. Don’t be pressured to finish getting a CPL just so you could start applying for the pilot job you’re hoping for. Everything comes in its own time. Enjoy flying first, then when you have enough skill and experience, go for the CPL. It’s like going to college, except a lot harder.

      You’ll also have to take written and practical exams with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to get your PPL. When you pass, then you can start working on getting your CPL, which means ground instruction again, flight instruction again, simulator training, actual flight time for the CPL requirement, etc. then exams with CAAP again.

      When your PPL expires, just get it renewed. Get the medical requirements, then get checked by the Aviation Medical Examiner of CAAP, then pay the fees for renewal. Reminder: flight time requirements also have to be met prior to license renewal.

      Giant fees for renewal? I don’t understand. Renewal fees are minimal. Flight time may be expensive, maybe that’s what they’re talking about. You need a certain number of flight hours prior to license renewal, to make sure you still remember how to fly airplanes.

      I hope this clarifies some issues. Question? Do you plan to become an airline pilot? Clarification? You plan to take up BS CompSci for the documentary requirement for airline pilots or as a back-up in case you can’t become a pilot? Suggestion? Love flying. Enjoy it. Don’t focus too much on fulfilling requirements to become an airline pilot to get the salary to get back the investment you paid for learning to fly.

      Violent reaction? Don’t become a pilot if your goal is to make money! Flying is a profession and a responsibility. You should make sure you return the plane in good condition after take-off. Your passengers will appreciate it.

      Reply
      • Thank you so much for your insights sir. I will do my best!

        Also, do you have the pdf list of all the CAAP registered flight schools in the country? I’ve looked around their website but I believe they might have deleted it recently.

        Reply
        • Dear Daniel,

          When you view the CAAP website, scroll down to find tab that says AMOs, Flying and Maintenance Schools, AMT/AMS Skill Test Facility, Maintenance Examiner, AOC, RPAS, and ATOs.

          Right below is a clickable link that says List of Flying Maintenance Schools as of Dec. 13, 2019. It is a pdf file which you have to download and can view online with an online pdf viewer. And remember, red is dead. If the flight school listed is red in color, it’s not advisable to learn flying from them since they have no CAAP accreditation.

          You can also check out the website aviationfly.com which has different filters to help you narrow your search for flight schools based on location, courses offered, costs of flight lessons, etc.

          Reply
          • Hi, I’ve graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing Management and I am currently 21 yrs old and wanted to be a Commercial Pilot someday. What steps can you suggest, for me to pursue this?

            Do I need to take the 4-year course in BS Aviation or are there other courses to be offered for me to learn more about flying. Also, If I’ll be taking the 4-year course in aviation, will some of the courses/subjects that I took for my bachelor’s degree be credited? If there would be like same subjects.

            I’m hoping to be more enlightened about this since I really wanted to be a Pilot. Thank you and stay safe, Capt.!

  5. Hello Capts.!

    I am a graduate of the STEM Strand at Senior High School. I currently am planning to take BS in Aviation Major in Flying at ALIAC (Which is at Manila, while I live in Pampanga). I would like to ask whether it is worth it or not (considering the distance, the expenses and etc.). Is taking a flight school near me (which is at Clark) but does not have BS degree be worth it? What do you suggest, Capt.?

    Will taking BSAF give me a better standing compared to the other applicants of a major airline? Will I be able to become a pilot that flies for a company already? Do I have to still build my flight hours after taking BSAF? If yes, how? (considering that I can no longer pay for additional flight hours) After BSAF, will I be able to apply as an entry-level pilot for a company already?
    Will the investment be worth it? Will I be able to return my investment after a few years as an airline pilot for a major airline (estimated, how many years?)?

    I apologize for having a handful of questions. 😀

    Deeply, thank you, thank you, very much!

    Reply
    • Dear Rik,

      I can see from your questions that you are at a crossroads of a major decision. And if I can’t answer carefully, you’ll be left with even more confusing choices. Thereby I will endeavor to clear the confusion in your mind regarding the options available to you in your present predicament, and hopefully provide a clearer understanding of the necessary path to achieve your goals.

      The airlines are mandated by government to accept applicants who have a Bachelor’s degree in ANY course, be it Nursing, Engineering, Biology, Architecture, Fine Arts, etc.

      BS Aviation major in Flying is also a baccalaureate degree, but will you be able to have the minimum number of flight hours for a Commercial Pilot License upon graduation, or will you still have to fly the hours after getting your degree? Ask the school about this.

      Take into account the expense of travel or renting an apartment, daily meals, laundry services, other additional unforeseen expenses, and then consider the intangibles: being away from home for long periods, missing important family events (birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, weddings, funerals, etc.), having to care for yourself if you get sick (headache, stomach aches, colds, coughs, fever, etc.), and not seeing your family for long periods of time (especially difficult for the parents). And then consider the current pandemic. Can you survive being alone and restricted from travel, or worse, being a carrier of the disease?

      When you get your Commercial Pilot License, you are now legally qualified to apply as an entry-level pilot for flight schools, or a cargo company, or for the airlines but fly countrywide only, as First Officer. Sadly, having a BSAF does not make you any better qualified than other applicants. It probably limits your options since you have no fallback course to rely on for a job, but then again, it means you will work your ass off to become a pilot, which means a good return on investment.

      To get the really good airline pilot salaries, you have to be flying the international routes, and foreign companies have better pay. And not just because of the exchange rate; they have higher pay and better benefits because the pilots and/or the government demands it. But you will be living in a foreign land away from your family, with the same issues as taking a course in Manila instead of Clark. Working locally means you will take a longer time to get your money back, but think about the emotional returns also. When was the last time you saw a happy OFW working abroad? OFW is different from migrant Filipinos, mind you.

      Actually, if you work with dedication regarding anything, you will become a success. Period.

      To recap:
      Where to go to school? Go where you can get a Commercial Pilot License.
      Do you need a bachelor’s degree for the airlines? Yes.
      Will it give me an advantage? No.
      Can I work for money as a pilot? Only with a CPL.
      How do I get my CPL? Pass the written and practical exams given by the Civil Aviation Authority.
      What is the process of becoming a pilot-for-hire? Get a Student Pilot License and Class 2 Medical Certificate, fly the plane for many hours, pass the Private Pilot License exam, fly many hours, get an Instrument Rating from a flight school, pass the Commercial Pilot License exam.
      How do I pay for my flight hours? With hard-earned money, whether your own or somebody else’s.

      Will the investment be worth it? Yes, because not many people can fly airplanes. Most drive cars or boats only. The money spent is money well-invested. I’m a dentist by profession, and fly on occasion. It is worth it.

      Reply
  6. Hi capt, is having a college degree really required to become an airline pilot? I want to become an airline pilot, but i am currently studying as an amt, which is a 2 year course. My school offers a 1 year avionic course (which was a 2 year course) to those who finished their AMT course.
    Will adding my 2 year amt with another 1 year of avionics help me to be “qualified”? If not, what should I do?

    Reply
    • Dear Lanz,

      You most likely will still not be qualified to be an airline pilot as it is documentary requirement to have a bachelor’s degree.

      However, it does not mean you cannot be a commercial pilot! In fact, you have better chances of getting hired as you will also have an AMT license aside from your CPL. Meaning, you can fix the plane you fly, which in my opinion is the safest plane around. My wife often says that the mechanic should fly with the pilot to make sure the pilot comes home safely.

      Of course, getting an AMT license does not mean you can now fly planes. You still have to go through Pilot Ground School, Pilot Flight School, and accumulate the needed hours for the Private Pilot License, then get an Instrument Rating, then work on getting your Commercial Pilot License. If you already have your Aviation Maintenance Technician License then you already know how the exams work.

      And when you get your CPL, you can then start working for a flight school, maybe become an instructor, or work for a cargo company. Sure, not as big a salary as airline pilots, but less risk of killing passengers also.

      Think about it.

      Reply
  7. Hi, I’m an incoming grade 12 student and I’m considering taking BS Air Transportation in PhilSCA. I’ve read that the BSAT program offers free flying in 3rd yr and 4th yr college, they guarantee 200 flying hours (if there are any PhilSCAns here, is this true and did you really complete 200 hrs of flight?). Upon graduation, they said that you will be receiving the PPL and CPL. But, if you’re an aspiring airline pilot where they accept CPL holders with instrument and multi-engine ratings, IR and ME isn’t covered in the BSAT program in PhilSCA. Well, this is what I’ve read so far. So my question is, where can I get my IR & ME if I want to fly an airbus or any other passenger aircraft? How much money will I spend if I am to get the IR & ME. Thank you very much!! :))

    Reply
    • Dear DAN,

      Get your Instrument Rating and Multi-Engine Rating from a flight school. Along with the requisite 1,500 flight hours to get your Airline Transport Pilot License, which is what you will need to apply for with the airlines. Some local airlines will most likely in all probability accept an applicant with a CPL and IR/ME ratings, since more pilots are needed as more air routes are opened up, thanks to new airports being developed.

      Let’s say you already have a CPL and need money. Work as an instructor in the flight school where you’re getting your IR/ME. Be a good instructor, and it will help you when you apply for the airlines. The money you spend is an investment for your future, and not a gift to yourself. Meaning, spend money now while learning, and earn it back when working! Good luck, my young padawan.

      Reply
    • Hello captain!
      Is it necessary to have a college to become a pilot? Is it ok if take Avionics or a 2-year-course?
      What is the best flight school in the philippines you can suggest for me?

      Reply
      • Dear Jomon,

        You don’t need a college degree to become a pilot. You just have to be at least 16 years old. A bachelor’s degree (any at least 4-year course) is required to become an airline pilot.

        And the best flight school in the Philippines is………..

        the one closest to your residence. Because if you have to rent an apartment to be near the flight school, then that is just added expenses, aside from meals, laundry, etc. All flight schools that are accredited by the Civil Aviation Authority are good enough. It depends on how comfortable you feel with your flight instructor, really. If you feel terrified by your instructor, then you won’t learn a thing because trying to fly the plane is terrifying already for a first-time aviator.

        Eventually you will understand the process of safe manipulation of the aircraft and you begin to enjoy flying at the controls, or your whole dream of being a pilot will come crashing down and that will be the end of that.

        Keep going, young padawan.

        Reply
    • Hi, a student from BSAT here which you mentioned, I can guarantee that what you said is officially true and proved by the board of the school. Along with it, your claim on IR and ME not being included in the package is, somehow, not true. Our program has IR and ME included in it. I am a student myself in the said course (BSAT) and I am currently in the 3rd year as of enrollment this coming school year 2020-2021. To give you another more information, We will be taking up the flight training during the introduction of our 3rd year Second sem up to the year we are able to finish the said flight training. This is now free because of the law passed during the start of Duterte’s administration. It roughly needed 2 to 3 years to complete the said training. Hope you would do well in the next moment!

      Reply
      • Dear Niño,

        Thank you for the clarification! I stand corrected.

        So you see, dear readers, information changes so stay updated by actually asking questions from the agencies or flight schools concerned. Don’t give too much credence to information retrieved from the internet, as that info can be outdated, misspelled, mistaken or downright wrong.

        Then again, info found on the internet points you in the right direction, but you have to travel the journey yourself. And if other students from other courses have experience or information that is different from what they read, I highly encourage them to share what they know.

        Doveryai, no proveryai. – Russian proverb

        p.s. Niño, always remember that the 3 most useless things to a pilot are:

        Altitude above you, runway behind you, and fuel in the truck. See you in the skies!

        Reply
    • Dear Rist,

      Only an Aviation Medical Examiner can determine if you are not qualified to be a pilot because of your mild hearing loss. Then again, as the name suggests, MILD. Meaning not serious, not severe, not harsh.

      I’m an old person. I need reading glasses, and have mild hearing loss (too much loud music in my teens) but I’m also a pilot. I can still hear clearly radio communications between pilots and airport towers, so no problems there. The cockpit instruments are still visible, albeit a little fuzzy without the glasses, but then again, most of the time is spent looking at the actual horizon instead of the artificial horizon anyway, and looking out for other aircraft, so I’m good there. I’m farsighted, so that is a bonus.

      So what does it all mean? Get checked out by the AME. Worst thing that could happen is another medical condition will kill your dream to be an aviator. Poor eyesight and being slightly deaf are not big hindrances. High blood pressure, neurological conditions, bad lungs, those will definitely keep you on the ground.

      Physical requirements for pilots these days are more strict with regards to those issues since the industry has noticed that pilots who are close to retirement age are more fit than pilots who are new hires, with heart attack being a number one reason for grounding a new pilot. Ironic, considering new airline pilots are around 25 to 30 years old, whereas soon-to-retire pilots are 67!

      Exercise and proper diet, avoid drinking to excess and no smoking!

      Reply
      • Good day, Captain! I would just like to ask if there is a height requirement to be an airline pilot? I am only 5 ft tall female and I’m thinking of going to flying school but I’m afraid that I will just waste money because I won’t get a job in the end. Hoping for you response. Thank you, Captain!

        Reply
        • Dear Alyssa,

          Nowhere in the government regulations will you find a height requirement for pilots, male or female. None.

          However, you will find that a lot of airline companies require their pilot-applicants to be at least 5’4″ to 6’4″ in height. And they have to have a “pleasing personality,” which is a euphemism for good-looking. Now, if you were good-looking and with that height, why would you want to be a pilot? It seems strange, doesn’t it? I would be a model and making money already!

          Anyway, just to be clear, the worst that an airline company can do is reject you for another applicant. Doesn’t mean the end of the world, there are other airline companies, or cargo companies, and other jobs for pilots, such as flight instructors, tour flights, search-and-rescue, etc.

          The real issue here is reach. Are you sitting tall enough in the seat that you can see over the instrument panel and look at the actual horizon outside the window? Are your legs long enough to fully deflect the rudder pedals? Can you reach all the buttons, levers, switches, and knobs from your seated position? If so, then you’ll get hired.

          I’ve met short pilots, and I’ve met short, ugly-looking pilots. In fact, I’m one of those, except I’m tall.

          Reply
          • Hi Capt

            I’m a a grade 12 graduate and will be taking BS mechanical engineering as my course in college. I would like to ask if it is possible to become a pilot after finish my BS mech eng and if it is possible, may I know the procedure?

            I don’t know how to view my comment and replies cause im new here so I would really appreciate if you email me at my back up gmail thank you

    • Dear Renan,

      Philippine State College of Aeronautics is funded by the Philippine government and as such, offers scholarships for those aspiring to be pilots. I honestly don’t know if this is a full or partial scholarship, never having gone to this school. I do hope one of our contributors can reply regarding this datum?

      At any rate, you can inquire directly from the school, or go to aviationfly.com to search for a pilot school near your location.

      On a side note, ladies and gentlemen, learning to fly is not that expensive! The high cost comes from renting the airplane to gain the needed flight hours for upgrading your license.

      However, according to a relative who has a friend whose child took up aviation and is now flying for one of the local airline companies, their return-on-investment took only a year. Meaning, a large initial cash outlay will be recovered within a limited time frame.

      In plain English, your total annual salary will be enough to pay for whatever you spent to get hired by the airlines. In plainer English: Borrow money. Fly. Get hired. Pay loan, one year only. Simple!

      “Aviation is proof that given the will, we have the capacity to achieve the impossible.” – Edward Vernon Rickenbacker

      Reply
  8. hi. i have a friend who want to be a pilot but he doesnt know what courses to take in college. care to suggest??and what school have aviation courses? Thank you

    Reply
    • Dear Cindy,

      There is no specific course to take up in college to become a pilot. It’s similar to learning to drive a car: the student learns the fundamentals in a lecture (with the requisite exams to determine understanding of the subject discussed) and the practical instruction where the student sits in the vehicle and demonstrates the proper control of said vehicle.

      However, if your friend’s goal is to achieve the Airline Transport Pilot License (where a 4-year bachelor’s degree in any college course is required) and he wants to put all his eggs in one basket, then taking up Bachelor of Science in Aviation major in flying is the way to go. Your friend will get to spend a lot of money, time and effort in eventually getting the chance to become an airline pilot.

      Or

      Your friend could take up any other course in college that is at least 4 years long, graduate, and then maybe get a part-time job and then take up flying during his free time or the weekends. Learning to fly does not have to adhere to a strict schedule. You can make arrangements with the instructors and the flight school or Fixed Base Operator regarding scheduling of classes and flight lessons. Most aero schools actually don’t offer flying, but instead, aviation-related courses! True flight schools usually can be found at the airports, on the civil aviation side, not the regular airport side of the runway. Most folks are aware of the regular airport side, and just wonder about the small airplanes parked nearby or across the runway. That’s the civil aviation area. Now you know. Tell your friend good luck!

      Reply
      • May I ask what school in the Philippines offers Bachelor of Science in Aviation major in flying thanks and what bs should I take in college to be a pilot.

        Reply
        • Dear Julian,

          Any at least 4-year college degree is acceptable for the airlines if you want to eventually become an airline pilot. But becoming a pilot does not require a degree, just lots of time and money and determination.

          It’s not easy to become an aviator. And you’ll only understand once you are one yourself.

          Reply
      • Hi Capt. I’m going to be a first year college this school year and I’m taking BS mechanical engineering. May I ask if I can become a pilot after completing my 4 year course and what is the procedure to become one? If possible, how will it take me to get my PPL and CPL?

        Reply
    • To my knowledge, most likely the possible answer is a relatively definite maybe not.

      Aeronautical engineers deal with aircraft design, or the performance of the aircraft in flight. They do not actually fly the aircraft. The Ishihara Eye Test is needed to determine a person’s ability to discern a pattern in differently colored dots, ergo you are not color-blind, since glass cockpits tend to cram so much information into a small video display by using different colors and symbols, and that data has to be processed in seconds by the pilot flying.

      Reply
      • thank you for answering captain, does that mean even a person with color deficiency can become an aeronautical engineer?…if so, why are some Aeronautical schools like Philsca also need the ishihara test results(negative of Colorblind) for students who will take Aeronautical Engineering?

        Reply
        • Dear axel,

          Why do some aeronautical schools require a negative colorblind test result for aeronautical engineers?

          I don’t want to make assumptions, because assumption is the mother of all fuckups, so I will simply offer my opinion of what I have understood from careful analysis of many years of experience.

          Because that’s the way the government works. Simple red tape. Bureaucracy. Why? Because nobody told the ones making the regulations that this simple test procedure is not necessary since aeronautical engineers do not fly airplanes; they design them. But since the colorblindness test is aviation-related, and aero engineering is aviation-related, ergo this test must be necessary also for aero engineers!

          If you wish to have this exam removed from the aeronautical engineering admission requirements, kindly file a protest, long bond paper, single spaced, three copies each page, have it notarized, file it with the Department of Education, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, the Office of the Ombudsman, the Office of the President, the Philippine Information Agency, the Department of Transportation, the…… (Get the point?)

          Let’s say you failed the colorblind test. Ask the school’s dean if that prevents you from becoming an aeronautical engineer, or can you be excused. Worse that could happen is they will refuse to enroll you. Make a good argument for your position, as some pilots may be colorblind due to advancing age, but depending on the severity of the disability, are still allowed to fly commercial. I don’t think failing this exam is an automatic barrier to being accepted as a student. Even asthmatics can be athletes. Just try and find out. If at first you don’t succeed, find another way. Never give up the dream till the last breath and the last drop of blood.

          Reply
    • Hi Captain, i’m just wondering that if becoming a pilot requires not being colorblind, does that also apply for Aeronautical Engineer?

      Reply
      • Dear Axel,

        I checked the CAAP Licensing Regulations, and I cannot find anything that deals with Aeronautical Engineers.

        As a matter of practicality, are you really colorblind? I mean have you been medically examined and legally declared to be color vision deficient?

        So you can’t differentiate certain colors from each other under normal lighting conditions. Just means you cannot be a pilot, firefighter, automobile driver, electrician, painter, doctor, flower arranger, landscape artist, fashion designer, photographer, astronaut, air traffic controller, web designer, graphic artist, chemical engineer….

        I don’t know if being an aeronautical engineer requires the ability to see clearly different colors. But to the limited scope of my knowledge and experience, I can only say, ask the other aeronautical engineers. They’re the persons best able to answer your question since they have actual real-world experience. Hope this clarifies the issue for you.

        Reply
  9. Hi, I’m a 16 year old Senior High School student and I’m planning to continue my dream of becoming a pilot. My one problem is my eyesight. I’ve read that people with astigmatism could still go on to become pilots but in the worst case, I’m planning to get eye surgery to fix my eyesight as I do not know if I do meet the minimum requirements. Could I still go on to become a pilot after the surgery? I would really love to know what are my possible options. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Dear Jymjy,

      Let’s break this down. You have a dream to be a pilot. You have astigmatism. You have read that people with astigmatism can still become pilots. What was the problem again?

      If you were already planning to undergo surgery to fix your eyesight, then have the procedure done. If you haven’t decided on the operation and was just worried if you’d fail the medical exam, then get checked out by the Aviation Medical Examiner first. No, this is not the same as an optometrist or even an ophthalmologist. The AME specializes on aviation-related medical matters. The AME will approve or disapprove your application for a Medical Certificate for eligibility to become a pilot. If you pass all the medical requirements, then your only hindrance to becoming a pilot will be financial.

      Regarding financial difficulties, potential pilots must realize that there is no rush to finish your flight instruction. If you don’t have the money to complete your flight hours in the shortest possible time, then take your time! Save your allowance, or work part time, or sell something you no longer use, need or want, or ask an adult to take out a loan for you. If there’s a will, there’s a way. If you graduate and find a job before finishing your flight training, save your salary. If it takes you a few years to become a captain, so be it. It took me 30 years, but I am now a pilot. As I said, financial difficulties. I thought that dream had died, until I realized that I now had the money, the maturity, and the time to pursue my desire to become a pilot, so I went for it and grabbed the chance. Bucket list item checked off!

      Nothing should prevent you from becoming one of the awesome.

      Reply
      • Hi captain!

        I’m an 18 year old senior high school student who wants to become a pilot. I would just like to know if it is required to be a graduate from a “pre-course” (let’s say aero engineering) to be able to take BS Aviation Major in Flying? Or can I take BS Aviation Major in Flying right after senior high school?

        Reply
        • Dear Darryl,

          No pre-course is needed to become a pilot. As long as you are at least 16 years old, you can begin learning to become an aviator.

          If your ultimate goal is to apply for the airlines, then getting a BS Av Major in Flying can serve as hitting two birds with one stone, in that you get the needed 4-year degree AND become a pilot at the same time, minimizing the amount of time and expense required, since you’re still in senior high.

          However, to clarify, for those already in other courses and wishing to become pilots, any 4-year bachelor’s degree will do. You’ll just have to study flying either during weekends, semestral break, Christmas break or upon graduation. Learning to fly can be done on an individual basis, depending on your free time and clear weather availability.

          Reply
  10. Hi Captain!

    Licensed Mech Engg na ako and want to become a pilot. Kakatapos lang nung study now pay later ng Cebu Pac late ko na rin nalaman. Are there other options similar sa gantong program na pwede ko itry?

    Reply
    • Dear Bly,

      Apply in any nearby flight school! Better if you pay your own way to becoming a pilot so that as soon as you get your Commercial Pilot License, you can then apply for any entry-level pilot job. Don’t let the salary fool you; airline pilots are paid a lot because they carry a lot of responsibilities and duties. Other pilot jobs may not pay the high salary, but you also have a lot of free time to pursue other things, like time with your family.

      Reply
    • You know, a Ceb Pac captain once said that their cadet program is a scam.. maybe because of the 10yr contract with cadets to recover costs of training. As aspirant in my late 30s i applied from batch 1-8 and was rejected in my true information. To test the waters, batch 6 and 7, i applied using false information like 24 as my age, Ateneo as my school and 98-99-99 for my grades in math, physics and English respectively and i received a CALL from FTA.

      Now, can anyone here tell me about their opinion on how CEB/FTA conduct their screening process?

      Siguro much better if they are specific in the requirements right?

      I hope Air Asia Philippines will do their screening on a fair and transparent manner. How could they able to do such monkey survey to eliminate the applicants? that’s funny!

      Reply
      • I guess my gut feeling was right. They filter out “overaged” or “not so intelligent” aspirants LOL~
        Early 30s here, and also applied for the 5J FTA thing.

        Although I’m still waiting for the Air Asia guidelines, somehow I’m no longer hopeful for that one too.

        I guess I’ll just follow Capt. Enrique’s advice and fund my own Flying Lessons.
        Afterwards, apply to the local airlines without those legal mumbo jumbos if ever.
        The problem is no funds, so it may just be a pipe dream for me.

        Although yeah, I’m curious as to how the cadet program is a scam?

        Reply
        • Dear aviadorkly,

          I guess applicants are disappointed that the dream that was within reach has become just a dream again because they appear to be disqualified. But that is not the end, ladies and gentlemen. Funds a problem? Take out a loan, or work and save your salary, or sell something you own, like a kidney. Just kidding about the kidney.

          Don’t be pressured to finish your flight training in the shortest possible amount of time. So you’re no longer 25. How much time do you think you’ll need to recover the investment? 50 years? Don’t focus on the salary; look at the benefits. Living out your dream of flying an airplane is priceless. And if you enjoy your job, then you’ll never work a day in your life.

          Besides, according to the regulations, Student Pilots should be at least 16 years old, and the mandatory retirement age for pilots is 67, meaning after this birthday, your license reverts back to a Private Pilot License, able to fly but not paid to fly. Never give up your dream just because somebody else says you can’t.

          “Always with you what cannot be done. Hear you nothing that I say?…You must unlearn what you have learned…Try not. Do. Or do not. There is no try.” – Yoda

          Reply
      • Dear Marco (and everyone else who reads these comments, and shout out to babe Fehl D. for making this website),

        As a contributor to this site, I must warn everyone that I can only comment based on my personal experiences, anecdotes, fellow pilot stories, internet research and observations. If you find them informative, my job is done. If I made mistakes, then mea maxima culpa.

        The best piece of advice I could give those aspiring to become airline pilots is caveat emptor. Buyer beware. Read the fine print. If it seems to good to be true, it usually is. If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, it must be a duck. You get what you pay for, and always be wary of anything given for free, including advice!

        Now, Marco, you have to remember, if they do a monkey survey, they must be looking for monkeys, right? Just kidding. If Ceb Pac does things that way, it may be shrewd business practice, or they could be pushing an unfair disadvantage on an unsuspecting applicant. Either way, if you don’t like it, don’t buy it, right? There are always other options.

        Being an airline pilot is the Holy Grail for aviators since they command the highest salaries. What most people don’t realize is the responsibility and the hardships that these professionals face. Airline pilots have to do their best to get their passengers to their destinations safely and on time, ever mindful that weather, equipment failure, congested runways, and screaming passengers can cause costly delays. In any controlled-flight-into-terrain incident, the pilot is always blamed. It doesn’t matter if it was equipment failure, or an explosion destroyed the aircraft, or the weather, at the end of the day, it was the Captain’s fault. They have to blame somebody, and dead people can’t complain.

        That’s the responsibility, while the hardship is having an irregular work schedule, missing important family events such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, baptisms, burials, reunions, etc. because of work. You will learn to appreciate quality time since you have no quantity time. Vacations can be cut short since the other pilot fell ill and you’re the only other one available. If you fly international, it’s worse. You will never know what time it is. You’ll measure time by the length of the flight, and it will be boring. But then again, for pilots, boring flights are always better than an exciting flight.

        You can always live your dream of becoming a pilot without having to fly for the airlines. When you find a pilot job, then you can start earning money to get back your investment in learning to fly. Agricultural spray pilots may earn on average 500,000 pesos annually. It’s not as high an airline pilot’s salary which is on average 700,000 pesos a year. Is the salary difference worth it? Think it through. There are other pilot jobs available. And they all pay a good salary. Find the balance. Don’t limit your options. Patience you must have, my young padawan.

        Reply
    • Dear Rico,

      As long as you are not certified to be legally blind, you still have the opportunity to become a pilot.

      Actually, people in general will experience some vision loss upon reaching 40 years of age. It’s called presbyopia, and it will happen no matter what you do to avoid it. Part of aging. So airline pilots will require eyeglasses, contact lenses or corrective eye surgery long before they retire at 67.

      In your case, your Medical Certificate will probably read “Needs corrective lenses” which means you wear eyeglasses while flying. If you finally get to your training flights, I suggest getting eyeglasses that are photochromic or light-adaptive or variable tint, and non-polarized. You’ll be spending a lot of time in sunlight, and the light reflection from clouds or glare from the sea is intense, while polarized lenses will block your view of the glass cockpit’s instrument readings, which can become a dangerous situation. Aviator sunglasses are always non-polarized.

      Or, inquire about corrective eye surgery. It’s one eye, and eyeglasses are a hassle. My niece who works for Air Traffic Control had it done, on the defective eye, and she said it was worth it. Her vision is now 20/20 from 20/50. Something to consider.

      Reply
      • Hi Captain! I’m already 31 y/o and I’ve thought a lot about it and decided that becoming a pilot may be the profession for me and I’m really interested in attending a flight school. Is there any age limit in joining a flight training course? Also, is there a possibility of any school offering a scholarship program to help me with the tuition funds?

        Reply
        • Dear Jamie,

          There is no age limit for attending a flight school. I started flight school at the tender age of 47.

          However, according to the Civil Aviation Regulations, no pilot can serve as pilot-in-command or as co-pilot on a Philippine-registered civil aircraft engaged in international commercial air transport if that person has reached 65 years of age, nor may they serve as same on Philippine-registered civil aircraft engaged in domestic commercial air transport if that person has reached 67 years of age. However, you are still allowed to fly small aircraft for private use.

          As for flight scholarship programs, try inquiring with Airworks Aviation Academy. Or if that school isn’t available in your location, try searching online with Aviationfly, an aviation school search engine website.

          Or you could save as much of your salary as you can and fund your own flight training so you don’t owe anyone anything, and they can’t tell you that you’re just wasting your time and money.

          “Your wings already exist; all you have to do is fly.” – Unknown

          Reply
  11. Hi, I am an incoming college student planning to take up computer science. I plan on going to flight school after college but I have an autoimmune disease called SLE & psoriasis. My question is, will my illness hinder me from passing the physical examination to become a pilot?

    Reply
    • Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations

      Part 2 Personnel Licensing

      2.10.2 Medical Requirements

      2.10.2.1 Requirements for Medical Certificates

      2.10.2.1.1 General

      An applicant for a Medical Certificate issued in accordance with this Part, shall undergo a medical examination based on the following requirements:

      (a) physical and mental;
      (b) visual and color perception; and
      (c) hearing.

      2.10.2.1.2 Physical and Mental Requirements:

      An applicant for any class of Medical Assessment shall be required to be free from:

      (a) any abnormality, congenital or acquired; or
      (b) any active, latent, or chronic disability; or
      (c) any wound, injury or sequelae from operation; or
      (d) any effect or side-effect of any prescribed or non-prescribed therapeutic medication taken; such as would entail a degree of functional incapacity which is likely to interfere with the safe operation of the aircraft or with the safe performance of duties.

      Since I’m a dentist who is learning to fly, I cannot determine whether you are or are not qualified to become a pilot. However, I am of the belief that you won’t be allowed to fly since you have SLE. Pilots are advised to fly using fingers only on the controls, relying on tactile and visual feedback to maneuver the airplane safely. Can you guarantee that your condition will not affect your tactile sense? More to the point, will you risk your life, along with those of your passengers?

      Then again, maybe if you only get a Private Pilot License, and ALWAYS fly with a safety pilot beside you, MAYBE the CAAP will allow you to become a pilot! You have to talk this over with the Aviation Medical Examiner to be sure.

      There is a rule for everything, and there is always an exception to the rule.

      Reply
    • Dear JAA,

      Your condition is an immediate hindrance to your passing the medical exam. You might experience stiffness in your limbs, hindering manipulation of the flight controls.Sudden shortness of breath and chest pain when added to the the high-stress environment of landing might be dangerous. And pilots are exposed to sunlight A LOT! Your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight might be a factor to consider. And if you experience headaches, confusion and memory loss while in the cockpit, what then?

      However, all of these things are just my opinion based on the information I have. The final authority to clear your medical condition is the Aviation Medical Examiner of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. Maybe if you only flew as a Private Pilot, with a safety pilot onboard, then you might be allowed to fly the aircraft.

      There’s a rule for everything, and there’s always an exception the to the rule.

      Reply
  12. Good day capt.
    I am an incoming college student and planning to take bsat major in flying. Will this course really help me pursue my dream to become a pilot? or take another non-aviation related courses and then pursue my dream to become a pilot? How about the expenses? Which is expensive to enroll in an aviation school or just go to normal school?

    Reply
    • Dear Marie,

      You don’t realize how difficult it is to answer your questions.

      Not because the answers are complicated; more of, does she have the aptitude and fortitude to pursue this dream in spite of all the hardships and challenges? And even if she does, is she medically qualified? Taking all that into consideration, here’s the answer tailored specifically to your situation:

      Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

      It is not a requirement that pilots take up aviation-related courses. Learning to fly is simply that, learning to fly, in much the same way as learning to drive a car. You don’t need a college degree in flying to do it; you just do it.

      The Ground Lessons are fairly simple, straightforward, and absolutely difficult to comprehend completely since you haven’t started flying yet. Once those lessons are done and you’ve passed the exams for each subject, you’ll be checked out by the Aviation Medical Examiner for your Student Pilot License and Class 2 Medical Certificate. When those two cards arrive you begin Flight Lessons. It will be exciting and equally terrifying when you begin flying. And when you get comfortable enough handling the flight controls with your Flight Instructor seated beside you, you’ll be given your Pre-Solo Exam and you’ll be scheduled for your Solo Flight, with the FI just waiting on the runway as you do one take-off and landing all by yourself.

      All this can be easily achieved in a few weeks or a few years, depending on your budget and time and the weather.

      Whereas, if you took up some aviation-related course and later found out you are not medically qualified to fly airplanes, what then? Crash and burn.

      Get a college degree in a course which you feel you might be competent in, and take up flying during semester breaks or vacation periods. It’s not going to go anywhere; aviation will still be there when you graduate from college, and if you wish to become an airline pilot, a job will be waiting for you, since airline travel is here to stay, with supply unable to keep up with demand. And if you are medically disqualified, then you continue in the degree you’ve chosen.

      Everything is expensive if you look at it from a point of negativity, but neither is it a good idea to be haphazard with your finances! Choose carefully, and pursue the dream. I became a dentist because I couldn’t afford flight school back then. I have the money now, ergo I am learning to fly.

      “If you were born without wings, do nothing to prevent them from growing.” – Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel, French fashion designer and businesswoman

      Reply
  13. Good day Captains!

    Becoming a plane pilot is one of my dreams that I need to pursue. Im now 22 years old, with a Business Degree and now planning to go and take Aeronautics Engineering. We didn’t really have enough resources back then. I can now work on my finances to support my dreams. Can you give me an advise, what course do I need to take and what school? I prefer somewhere in Cavite and Pasay area. I would love to communicate with you via email. Thank you

    Reply
    • Dear Aljason,

      First we have to define what you mean by “plane pilot.” Do you wish to fly as a hobby, enjoying the view and having breakfast in one island then flying home for dinner? Or do you wish to get paid to fly passengers and cargo? Is your aim the highest civilian pilot license? You now have a Business Degree, so you are qualified for the Airline Transport Pilot License.

      Ok, straight advice: No need to take up another course. Go directly to the flight school in your preferred area and ask for details as to charges and availability of instructors and aircraft. What is going to be really expensive is gaining the needed flight hours for each license upgrade. But take heart, there is no time limit to getting a license, but it’s a hassle getting the Medical Certificate renewed.

      Anyway, here’s the email address: fernandodentalclinic@yahoo.com, because, as Master Yoda said, “Always pass on what you have learned.”

      Reply
    • Dear Jameson,

      Corrective lenses are allowed. All pilots have to be healthy both physically and mentally, not drug addicts, and not convicted of crimes. Seems easy enough, right?

      Reply
  14. Hello Captain!

    I am currently an upcoming Grade 12 student and applying to enter colleges. As I like anything about computers and technology, that makes me want to take a BS in IT or Computer Science.

    I want to ask if It is required and preferred to have an aviation-related course in becoming a pilot? Also can I attend a flight school simultaneously as I am studying grade 12 or is it preferable that I do it after college?

    Reply
    • Dear Alex,

      If your ultimate goal is to become an airline pilot, remember that the airline companies require their applicants to be college graduates of any (minimum) 4-year course. Aviation-related courses are not special nor required.

      And you can attend flight school simultaneously with Grade 12 or college. You can attend Ground School during weekends and fly during weekends also. There is no rush to finish, just limitations due to funding. And if you start flying, my suggestion is do it during semester breaks or summer, because you might encounter a very prominent fact of a pilot’s life called Remain Over Night, which means you cannot return to your home airport because the weather just closed the runway to Visual Flight Rule aircraft.

      Reply
  15. Good day captain, how much will be the cost of my whole training in a flight school? Is there any fly now pay later here in the Philippines? Can you please recommend some thing that has a less cost?

    Reply
    • Dear snah,

      It depends on what you mean by “whole training,” as different licenses require different flight hours. The accumulation of flight hours for each license is where the bulk of the cost will be.

      You see, to go from a Student Pilot License to a Private Pilot License you need at least 40 flight hours. From PPL to Commercial Pilot License, it’s 200 hours. From CPL to Airline Transport Pilot License, the requirement is 1,500 flight hours.

      As soon as you get a CPL, you are now legally allowed to receive compensation for flying people and/or cargo around, so you can start recovering your investment.

      Flight hours are anywhere around 8,000 to 12,000 pesos per hour, depending on type of airplane. And unfortunately, the flight hours are not cumulative, meaning when you get a new license, you start at zero flight hours for the next license. Ergo, if you met only the minimum requirement for each license, you would have flown a total of 1, 740 flight hours.

      Cebu Pacific has a Cadet Pilot Program where you get hired by the company and sign a 10-year contract with them, so that you eventually pay off your flight training costs.

      It doesn’t come any cheaper. The cost of airplanes and aviation fuel is basically the same all over the country, so flight hours cost about the same for all flight schools. You just have to save money and fly when you have the funds and the weather is clear. There is no rush to become a pilot anyway.

      “Focus on the journey, not arriving at a certain destination.” – Chris Hadfield, retired austronaut, engineer, RCAF fighter pilot, musician

      Reply
  16. Hi Captain! Right now, I am about to graduate Grade 12 and enter college. I’m planning to take either Aeronautical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering because I simply love machines and tech. Then after I graduate with that, I will proceed to take flight school training to become an airline pilot, which was always my dream.

    I wanted to ask you, will it be easier for me in flight school after all of my experiences in the Engineering course? Like, will things be easier for me to understand and familiarize considering I graduated from Engineering?

    Reply
    • Dear Renz,

      How are things there in Iloilo? I guess you really are good in Math, hence the choice to take up Engineering courses.

      If you take up an Engineering course prior to becoming a pilot, it would be like becoming an auto mechanic before learning how to drive a car. It helps but it’s not the whole process. Some areas will be easier to understand while other areas will not be related to Engineering, such as the weather, and radio communications.

      An Engineering course will aid in understanding the airplane’s characteristics in flight and the function of the cockpit instruments, among other things, but that doesn’t mean it will be difficult for those who took up other courses. Take me, for example. I’m a dentist, nothing in my college courses remotely related to flight, but I am also a pilot! It’s easy enough when you slow down to absorb everything the instructors teach you.

      The main reason the airlines requires their applicants to be baccalaureate holders is it’s a sure sign of maturity and perseverance, since the person underwent four years of hardship to attain the degree, ergo you won’t quit your pilot job after the airlines spent a lot in training you to join their fleet.

      Reply
      • Thank you so much for all of that info!

        And things are doing really well here. Ever since I last asked you, I was able to visit several aviation schools both here in Visayas and in Manila. Then after some careful decision making, I’ve chosen Manila, because I think the facilities and quality might be better and for some other personal reasons as well.

        And well, ever since last time, I’ve managed to get slightly better in Math and will hopefully continue to do so. Either way, I will push through it!

        (And plus, I get grossed out by blood and innards, so the medical field is a no go for me)

        Also, if I may ask, it’s pretty unrelated but do you have any tips for someone who is moving to Manila alone to study?

        Reply
        • Dear Renz,

          Sorry for the late reply, just saw this today.

          Tips:

          Don’t eat in carenderias. It’s cheaper in fast-food chains.

          Don’t walk with your head down. Look at people’s eyes. Pickpockets and other bad guys look for targets who always look at their feet when walking.

          Wear tight jeans. Wallets are more difficult to grab if your pants are tight.

          Don’t text while driving. Manila traffic requires 360 degree vigilance. Period.

          Don’t text while walking. Snatchers are still around.

          Don’t wear jewelry. See above.

          Grab and Uber are slightly safer than taxis unless you know the route you need to take. And whenever you ride a passenger utility car, pretend to call someone and let the driver hear you telling that nonexistent person that you have given the vehicle’s license plate and that you’re heading there already.

          Pray for safety before leaving your residence.

          Always wear sunblock.

          Good luck!

          Reply
  17. *Dear Ms. Fehl, I have accidentally posted the comment below as a reply to a very old enquiry in this thread. Please allow me to repost so Capt. Enrique can easily see it. Thank you.*

    Hello Capt. Enrique,

    I wasn’t able to finish college, as I really needed to start working (I accomplished up to 2nd year as an engineering student). Years have passed; I am now 31 with a family of my own and was able to grow in my career. With my current professional standing, I believe I can support pilot training with help from family and friends. This is my dream ever since I was young.

    The goal is to become an airline pilot, but my concern is this: will it eventually become impossible for me to work for an airline because I didn’t get to finish my 4-year college course? Is the only option to go back to school first before I do my pilot training? I have tried to do it once when I was in mid-20s, and I have passed CAAP’s medical exam. I got started with ground school, but as hard as I’ve tried back then, my career wasn’t rewarding enough to support training all the way to become a private pilot. What I did then was to focus on my work for promotions and higher pay.

    Now that I have a real shot to fund pilot training, I am concerned if I should postpone it again and just go get a degree first. With a family to support, I cannot go to school full-time. This means it will take multiple years again to finish my course, and I may need to start as a freshman again because of curriculum changes.

    Will I still have a chance to work for an airline if I become a cargo or corporate pilot and accrue enough experience and flight time, get an airline transport license, and apply? I have done extensive research, and even for pilots in other countries, the general consensus seems to be that flying experience counts the most. But then again, if I go straight to training, I’m afraid that maybe airline companies will not take me in later on because I’m not a degree holder, even if I have an ATP license and sufficient flight hours.

    Your input about this situation would be greatly appreciated, Captain. Apologies for the lengthy post. I just needed to provide context. Thanks and have a great day.

    Reply
    • Dear AL,

      Ah! Now everything is much clearer as context has been provided. So, let’s break it down.

      Question 1: Will be impossible for you to become an airline pilot without a college degree? No, but there will be hundreds of baccalaureate holders applying for limited positions.

      Question 2: Will flight experience be enough without a college degree? Yes, but there will be hundreds of baccalaureate…. Get the point?

      Sorry to play devil’s advocate, but we have to face reality, boys and girls. Even applicants with the best qualifications are competing with other applicants, and airline companies can take the pick of the litter. Experience matters most, but those who meet ALL the requirements AND have experience are also vying for the same position.

      Does that mean you give up your dream of becoming a pilot? Only if you’re negative and defeatist. Can you still pursue a 4-year degree while learning to fly? Absolutely! Mandatory retirement age for airline pilots is 67. And airline companies are willing to accept pilots with CPL plus the Instrument Rating, Multi-Engine Rating and at least 200 hours flight time, as First Officers.

      If you can manage to earn a degree while gaining flight hours while raising a family, go for it!

      As Henry Ford said, “When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.”

      p.s. Let me remind everyone of the reality of being an airline pilot. What is your reason for wanting to be one? If it’s monetary, I assure you, you will earn every penny of that salary, because it’s not an easy profession. If you’re single, it would be easier, since you’ll be spending days away from family. Try not to have any vacation plans, because vacations can be cut short because the airline can call you up at any time in case they need a replacement pilot. Airline pilots don’t really have a steady flight schedule, meaning you can be working for two days straight, then a break of a day or two, and then another day of flying, then another rest day, and…..etc. You will miss birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, etc. because of your job. You will spend hours staring at an instrument panel and nothing else. You can’t read a book or play with your mobile device because distractions are dangerous as lives of hundreds of people are literally in your hands. You’d have to be ready to handle emergencies, as human error causes lots of airplane incidents, whether pilot error, mechanic error, or someone else’s error. Health is also a major consideration so you cannot afford to be sedentary. Exercise and healthy living is a major requirement. You’ll need a Class 1 Medical Certificate as an airline pilot, and the medical standard for that is stringent!

      Like the joke goes, “My grandfather was a great pilot, and I want to die like he did, peacefully in his sleep, and not screaming like his passengers.”

      p.s. to p.s. Does that mean you give up becoming a pilot? NO! Airline pilots are the highest paid, but that isn’t the only pilot job available. When you get a Commercial Pilot License, you can get paid to fly as a corporate pilot, cargo plane pilot, agricultural spray pilot, sightseeing tour pilot, flight instructor, etc. The pay isn’t as high, but the balance also is the time for your family. My friend who flies for Cebu Pacific says that is what he misses most. Weigh everything carefully.

      Addendum: A Private Pilot License requires at least 40 flight hours, and a Commercial Pilot License needs a minimum of 200 flight hours, while the Airline Transport Pilot License has a requirement of 1,500 flight hours. This is not cumulative, which means to reach the ATPL, you must have logged at least 1,740 flight hours. Flight time costs anywhere from 8,000 to 12,000 pesos. 1,740 x 8,000 = 13,920,000 pesos, while 240 x 8,000 = 1,920,000. This is one of the reasons pilots take a long time to accumulate flight time, aside from bad weather, of course.

      Reply
      • Great insights, Cap. I am truly blessed because my family supports me all the way, and they are ready to make sacrifices as much as I am. As for being a pilot, this is really a matter of chasing a lifelong dream and living it. I have always imagined myself as either a pilot or an astronaut. And realistically speaking, the latter will likely remain a pipe dream [ for now 😉 ]. Life doesn’t always go the way you want it to, so I wasn’t able to do pilot training at a younger age. But now here I am, and the goal of taking to the skies has become less blurry.

        I’d also like to share with you a quote that I love:

        “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” – Maya Angelou

        Here’s to getting our own wings!

        Reply
        • Dear AL,

          After your Flight Instructor notices that you are comfortable with flying the aircraft, you will be given a pre-solo-flight written exam which you will promptly pass, because you were listening carefully to the lectures given during your flights instead of looking outside the window at the view, right?

          Don’t worry, you’ll pass. After that, you’ll be scheduled for your solo flight. You’ll be required to do a take off, fly a traffic pattern around the runway, and land, all by yourself since your FI will be on the ground, listening to you as you talk with the Air Traffic Controller in the tower. And when you’re not looking, your FI will be kneeling on the runway, praying that the student pilot will be able to land safely. The student pilot will be excited and terrified beyond belief, but you know you can do it, so you do it. And when you land, you’ll be strutting like a peacock since you achieved something not many people are capable of doing: Flying an airplane!

          All pilots get their wings after their graduation, which is the solo flight. Go get yours and let’s fly in formation!

          “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

          Reply
      • Hi Capt. I’m a College student right now and i want to ask if is it possible to become an Airline Pilot even I took a BSTM (Tourism Management) course in college? How can i become an airline pilot after 4 years in BSTM?

        Reply
        • Dear Ry,

          Enroll in a flight school!

          Airline companies require their pilot-applicants to have a degree from ANY 4-YEAR COURSE. Of course, you’d still need an Airline Transport Pilot License with a Multi-Engine Rating, an Instrument Rating, a Class 1 Medical Certificate, etc.

          Or achieve a Commercial Pilot License with Multi-Engine Rating, Instrument Rating, Class 1 Medical Certificate, etc. and apply with the airlines as a First Officer.

          Steps to becoming an airline pilot:
          1. Enroll in flight school.
          2. Get Student Pilot License.
          3. Fly.
          4. Get Private Pilot License.
          5. Fly.
          6. Get Commercial Pilot License.
          7. Fly or apply at airline company.
          8. Get Airline Transport License.
          9. Apply at airline company.
          10. Save salary to recover cost of flying prior to employment.

          The advantage of having a college degree is just in case you won’t make it as a pilot, then you apply for a job in your course.

          I must warn everyone reading that wanting to become an airline pilot should not be about the money. Realize that you have a responsibility to your passengers and also to the company that took a chance on you. And you’ll be sacrificing a lot! It’s tedious sitting in a cockpit staring at clouds for long periods, your social life will remain online since you’ll either be too tired or have to get up early again the next day, birthdays and anniversaries and other family events will be missed because you were ten kilometers or so in the air, or stuck in a hotel room unable to fly home in time because of bad weather, and all other difficulties which accompany the airline pilot’s job, hence the high salary.

          Hard work bears good fruit.

          Reply
      • Capt! Thank you for such valuable insights. I’m a degree holder. Major in marketing management.. And now i really want to proceed in becoming a pilot. I understand the risks and the costs.

        1st question..

        Can i immediately take the hourly flight sessions when i have the funds? Or do i really
        have to undergo another 2 to 4 year course related to aviation?

        2nd question.

        Would there be lesser chance of hiring a business graduate like me compared to other aviation graduates? Because then i might be wasting millions of flight training cost.

        3rd question.

        When i am holding already a CPL and when i get hired in an airline company, what position would i be holding? Do I instatnly become 1st officer?

        Really hoping you would notice my message and give some favourable insights capt!

        Thanks..

        Ramil ibanez
        Davao

        Reply
        • Dear Ramil,

          1st answer.

          No, you may not immediately take the hourly flight instruction when you have the funds. You must first undergo Ground School, where the basics of aviation will be taught to student pilots and the knowledge imparted will be measured in exams, just like in regular school. And no, you do NOT need to undergo a 2 or 4 year aviation-related course, as you are already a degree holder. My Ground Instruction took about two months, with two-hour sessions every other day, since I was also working as a dentist. That’s how short it can be.

          2nd answer.

          A business graduate has as good a chance as an aviation graduate, or an engineering graduate or a nursing graduate or a flight attendant! The airlines prefer individuals who are driven, intuitive, relatively fearless, and compassionate. Of course you will be competing with other applicants, as with any other job, and the best rise to the top. If you don’t make it to the airlines, other pilot jobs are available! Millions not wasted.

          3rd answer.

          Holding a Commercial Pilot License means that you can now get paid as a pilot, earning or charging fees for flying. If accepted by the airlines, your rank is either Second Officer (in cabins with three people) or First Officer, or the lowest man on the totem pole, the slave, the new guy, the greenie, the kid, the neophyte, the initiate, the plebe, the guy with the most work and the least pay. That’s life as an employee. As time goes by and others retire, you move up and get to beat up the new hire. Figuratively speaking, of course. Pilots are professionals.

          Since you’re in Davao, might I suggest Mactan Aviation Technology Center Inc.? It’s where I got my pilot training. They’re not expensive, and the instructors are chill.

          Reply
  18. Addemdum: Hmm. I think there is another way, Capt. I can do the pilot training now, all the way to CPL. And then while working and accummulating flight hours for the ATPL, I can take college classes at the side and finish my degree at the same time. Perseverance is the key.

    Reply
    • Correct!

      Actually, the minimum age for a Student Pilot License is 16 years old, while applicants for Private Pilot Licenses have to be at least 17, and Commercial Pilot License applicants are 18 years of age, whereas the Airline Transport Pilot License requires the pilot to be at least 21.

      Meaning, if you have the money, you can start learning to fly at the same time you enter senior high.

      Ground Lessons (where the theory of flight and its attendant topics are discussed by your Ground Instructor) can be conducted in a classroom setup or one-on-one instruction, usually in two-hour sessions. After all topics have been covered, the student applies for the Student Pilot License from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. The flight school usually assists with the paperwork and other incidentals, and the student has to gather the needed documentary requirements and medical exam results prior to a physical exam conducted by the Aviation Medical Examiner. After processing by the CAAP, the Student Pilot License and Class 2 Medical Certificate arrives, and the student then coordinates with the school regarding his/her schedule for Flight Instruction (the really fun part) and meeting your Flight Instructor to schedule your Orientation Flight, and you are on your way!

      All of these can be done on weekends or during summer/semester breaks.

      If you don’t have the money yet, get a job, save your salary and then all these can be done on your days off! Flight schools can also do Sunday or holiday sessions, depending on your schedule.

      “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” – Theodore Roosevelt

      Reply
      • Much appreciated, Cap. This is really helpful. And I must say, I never imagined that such a short sentence with seven words can be so powerful. Thanks for sharing that quote from Teddy. Just added it to my phone’s wallpaper so I can be reminded everyday. Cheers!

        Reply
        • I’m a pilot. To save time, let’s just assume I’m never wrong.

          Funny aviation quote. When you join the ranks of the awesome, you’ll hear a lot of stuff like this. Have a great day!

          Reply
  19. Hi! I really wanted to be a pilot, I am a high school student right now, and a year ago or two when i started loving to become a pilot. I want to experience the feeling of flying in the sky, the happiness of manipulating the controllers. But then, there’s a lot of articles (and amm one of my teachers too) told me that its expensive, and we definitely cant afford it. I really want to be a pilot so bad, but Im also scared at the same time if I can really do it. And really feel like crying thinking that I might not achieve this dream. Im so confuse about pursuing this or not… But if I’ll pursue this how? what school? what about the expenses? Can someone help me to think about this stuffs?

    Reply
    • Dear Denka,

      You’ve come to the right place to ask those questions. Kudos to simple babe Fehl D. for making this site!

      If you only think of the negative, you’ll never get to your destination. There will always be another barrier, another obstacle, another hindrance in your way. You can choose to be part of the problem or part of the solution.

      They say learning to fly costs a lot. So does learning to become a doctor, or a nurse, or an engineer, or an architect, etc. Maybe you want to fly as a hobby or a passion and others will tell you it’s an expensive hobby! Some people do gardening, collect stamps, do photography, go mountain biking, buy cars, etc.

      Everything is expensive for those who are not interested in your passion, but achievable for those who desire it.

      As a high school student, you have an allowance. My suggestion is to make a list of all your expenses, no matter how small, and keep a daily record. After a week or a month, add everything up and see how much money you’ve spent. Find what expense you can do without, and save your allowance. During summer, find a summer job in a fast-food store and save your salary. When you have enough, then you can start learning to fly airplanes.

      Here’s a quote from Charles Augustus Lindbergh: “Sometimes flying feels to godlike to be attained by man. Sometimes, the world from above seems too beautiful, too wonderful, too distant for human eyes to see.”

      And another: “Success is not measured by what a man accomplishes, but by the opposition he has encountered and the courage with which he has maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.”

      Reply
    • Dear Therese,

      Try checking with the Philippine State College of Aeronautics if they offer a full scholarship. But even if you have to pay for your flight education, it’s worth it.

      The task seems insurmountable only if all you do is stare at the problem.

      Reply
  20. Hi Captain,

    How do you see the future of flying? We now have self-driving cars, do you think there will still be pilots after 20 years?

    I have a 3-year old child and it would be great if he can fulfill my childhood dream of becoming a pilot.

    Joseph

    Reply
    • Dear Joseph,

      Yes, we do have self-driving cars since 2013. And since March 2018 to April 2019, we’ve had two pedestrian- and four driver-fatalities from self-driven car accidents. I do believe that the future of aviation will always have a human at the controls.

      I am certain your child can fulfill his dreams, as I am certain you can fulfill your dream of becoming a pilot. It’s too late only when we are dead.

      My rich friend became a pilot when we were still in Grade 6, back before K-12 was even being considered. He’d invite me to go flying with him, and it scared me to get inside an aircraft with room smaller than a toilet stall. It was made of aluminum tubing and canvass for the sides and wings. Pilot sat in front and passenger sat directly behind. Being used to flying in airliners, I thought that was the ultimate level of stupidity, so I politely declined. Years later I asked him how much it cost to get a private pilot’s license and back then it cost about 2 million pesos.

      Fast forward to the present, I’m a 50 year old dentist, he’s now flying international for Cebu Pacific, and I finally have enough money to pursue the idea of becoming awesome. The plane I fly is no bigger than that first one years ago, the skin is now aluminum, but not much has changed except I now realize I should have shut up and taken him up on that invitation years ago.

      Flying a small plane is infinitely better than an airliner, personally speaking. But then again, it’s not my job, but the fulfillment of a dream. I strongly encourage everyone to make their dreams come true. Not everyone will be able to realize their desires, but the journey will have been worth it!

      Reply
  21. Dear Captain,

    What are your thoughts about WCC’s bachelor in science in aviation major in commercial flying the price is 2.9M for the 4 year course that includes CPL, PPL, IR, MER.

    Reply
    • Dear JohnMichael,

      WCC Aviation Company is currently registered as an active flight school, and has a reputation to uphold.

      2,900,000 pesos for the Commercial Pilot License with Multi-Engine and Instrument Rating Training Program which includes the PPL/CPL/IR/ME courses, simulator training and actual flight hours, with dormitory stay, uniform, the wings and epaulettes, pilot’s hat, reflectorized vest, aviation headset, Medical Certificates 2 and 1, CAAP Licensing and Exam fees, NBI Clearance, NTC Radio Telephony Exam, English Language Proficiency Exam, Checkride Fees, Admin Fees, Study Materials, Student Insurance, Internet Card? And it takes four years! That takes care of the airline requirement for a baccalaureate degree.

      That amount seems very reasonable, considering. It might even be a bargain deal! Different schools, different styles. But the end result is the same: becoming a professional pilot.

      Yes, learning to fly is expensive, aside from being terrifying at times. Can’t become one of the awesome if this was easy. And thanks for the information. At least this answers the question of Sikretong Malupet as to the cost.

      However, playing devil’s advocate here, I suggest that you get it in writing, and preferably notarized by a lawyer. In effect, that this amount covers all of those items. Caveat emptor.

      Reply
    • Dear JohnMichael,

      Addendum: Flight schools can only assist a student pilot in getting a license, but only the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines issues Medical Certificates and Pilot Licenses, after passing examinations with that government agency.

      Reply
      • so are you saying na if i finish bs aviation major in commercial flying, i can take the test for ppl and cpl so that i can get my license?

        Reply
        • Dear Malupet,

          Yes.

          Taking up BS Aviation, Major in Commercial Flying, which is a 4-year course, means your documentary requirement for an airline job is now covered.

          I just don’t know if you can take the exams for PPL and CPL at the same time, since all the pilots I’ve met so far went to flight school after graduating college, taking up other courses before deciding on becoming a pilot, ergo they took the PPL exams, then flew a few hours, often becoming Flight Instructors to gain the needed flight time while earning, and then took the CPL exam.

          Just ask the admin of the flight school if that’s how it’s going to happen, since they’d have the pertinent info regarding that particular situation.

          Reply
  22. if I finish BS Aviation Major in Commercial Flying in WCC, will i receive a private pilot license and commercial pilot license? Also, how much does the course cost yearly?

    Reply
    • Dear Malupet,

      If you finish BS Aviation, Major in Commercial Flying with WCC Aviation Company, you will not receive a Private Pilot License nor a Commercial Pilot License. You will most likely receive a certificate that says you have completed the required Ground Instruction and requisite number of Flight Hours to be eligible for the Civil Aviation Authority’s Private Pilot License Exam. After you pass the exam and get your PPL, you can enroll again and take up the Commercial Pilot Course and fly the required number of hours, AND THEN take another exam for your Commercial Pilot License.

      As to the cost, you’ll have to ask them yourself. Different flying schools have different course rates. Some schools offer separate Ground Lesson courses from Flight Lesson courses, while others offer a complete package from start to finish, which could also include assistance in getting your PPL. You have to ask around, and find which suits you best. Weigh the cost-to-benefit ratio if it’s feasible.

      Reply
      • Sir, you’ll recieve CPL, PPL, SPL, and four ratings for 2.9M in WWC’S BS Aviation major in commercial flying, is it worth it? And you’ll have 16 hours of A320 sim training. Hoping for a reply because i’m deciding for my course to take in college

        Reply
        • Dear JohnMichael,

          According to my computation, that amount is similar to what I would spend if I were to pursue the same licenses and ratings. Plus, you get all those other incidentals such as the uniforms, the hat, the dorm stay, etc. Plus the A320 sim training is invaluable.

          Simply put, it’s worth it. It’s a large initial cash outlay, but the return on investment is reasonable. Assuming your aim is the airlines, the tuition fee can be recovered later. Go for it if you can afford it! Good luck, and hope to fly with you someday.

          Reply
      • Dear Captain,
        I want to be a commercial pilot.
        Pls help me????
        If you have an idea about the examination given by Cebu Pacific for their Cadet Pilot’s Program.
        I’ll be taking the exam next month and I want to prepare for it.
        Thank you so much.

        Reply
        • Dear Marj,

          That exam is a pre-screening exam, so it’s similar to the aptitude tests we all take prior to entering school, even kindergarten. Qualified applicants have to be Filipino citizens proficient in English and hold a college/university degree. If you’ve entered college, this is no different from the college entrance exam you took years ago.

          Additional tips: Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, take your vitamins, eat your vegetables, sleep with no distractions (noise, lights, electronic devices, etc.), eat lean meat and fish, exercise regularly, and relax! This is a simple exam similar to dozens you’ve taken before and most likely easier than a few you experienced in school. You can do this if you believe in yourself. Good luck!

          Reply
  23. Good Day Captain! I decided to take up dentistry first before pursuing Aviation, thanks to your advice it cleared up my mind on what path should I take first, It really helped me a lot. I am now a freshman dentistry student in University of the East. Dentistry seems to interest me also since I love studying any scope of sciences than solving mathematical problems. Being a dentist, can you give any advices or tips on being a freshman student of dentistry?

    Reply
    • Dear Trisha,

      So, you decided on the Grab/Uber option of getting to your destination! Kinda expensive, but it’s worth it, believe me.

      Tips for freshmen? This applies to all freshmen reading this blog, no matter what course you’re currently taking up and even beyond, to the time you’ll be learning to fly an airplane, so stop reading by closing your mouths and listen carefully to what I’m writing down. 😉

      As a newbie, you’ll find that everything is overwhelming and seems insurmountable! That’s normal; it’s new, it’s complicated, and it’s designed to weed out those who are unable to continue to graduation. Be it Dentistry, Accounting, Medicine, Engineering, Biology, Commerce, Computer Science, Astrophysics, or Aviation.

      So you just have to accept that fact and try to comprehend the immense volume of new information that is being imparted to you by your professors, teachers, instructors, mentors, and experienced people.

      There will be times wherein the pressure would seem to be extremely difficult to manage, and you’d feel like surrendering is the easier option. Failure is not an option. If you give up when life gives you a hard time, you’ll never get to your destination.

      Patience, perseverance, dedication to duty and professionalism are necessary traits in any endeavour. Remember, other people have passed your way and also found the same difficulties you are going through, but they held on to the end and accomplished the task and defeated the obstacles placed before them. Do you really think they were better than you? I don’t think so. All men are created equal. It’s surpassing the challenges that determine greatness or mediocrity.

      Reply
  24. Hello captain,
    Does the Commercial airlines required height? If i apply because my concern is my height is only 4’11 is this qualified if i apply work as pilot in the future???

    Thanks for answer

    Reply
    • Dear Dindin,

      Yes, there is a height requirement for Airline pilots but there is no height requirement for pilots. it’s more an issue of reach, i.e. can you see out the cockpit window, can your feet step on the brakes, etc.

      But due to the scarcity of new pilots and increasing flight volume, the height requirement seems to be bent as long as the pilot-applicant can actually reach all the buttons, levers, switches, knobs, and most importantly, the pedals.

      If you can get inside an airline flight simulator, have a go and see. If you can reach everything, then by all means, pursue an aviation career and be one of the awesome!

      Reply
      • Thank you! Your comment was very insightful. Im 5’0 and i badly want to become a pilot. I tried the flight sim of aag to which i think im fine to.reach the controls but i have to tiptoe for a full rudder deflection. I really dont know if this is enough for me to land a job in an airline due to my height.

        Reply
        • Dear Apaul,

          So wear platform shoes! Just kidding, of course.

          Did you move the seat to its full forward position? I can’t believe that automobile seats are better than cockpit seats, since most cockpit seats are fully adjustable in the XYZ axes. Granted, I’m a tall guy, and I have to push back on the seat so my knees don’t hit me in the face. But I am just flying a Cessna and not a Boeing nor Airbus product. Cessna seats are similar to car seats in that they move forward and backward only, and recline very minimally.

          And besides, with the rapidly expanding airport network in our country, the need for more pilots is becoming more evident, and height requirements might be disregarded completely. Remember, it’s easier to push on the seat than to pull it forward, even in a car. Maybe you should try the simulator again, and this time, ask. Don’t be embarrassed to ask questions, or for help. You’ll be surprised to find out that pilots are a very nice, cool, down-to-earth bunch of awesome people, always willing to assist. Have a pilot push on the seat so you can see if you still need to tiptoe for full-rudder deflection. He/she will be glad to check.

          If at first you don’t succeed, find another way!

          Reply
          • I would wear those shoes if I have to Lol 🙂 thanks, Capt.!

            The flight sim of AAG that I tried is A320 full flight sim and mechanically adjustable (XYZ). I just dont know if the dimensions are very similar with the real A320. Seat was full forward and full upward position and I could reach the top controls but still the rudder pedals is the problem since i have to tiptoe. Regarding on the cessna planes I just dont know if could reach the pedals or controls considering the adjustment limitations. Maybe I could use a cushion pillow ;).

            Thanks a lot Capt. now Ive been wanting even more to pursue my dream.

    • Dear Chai,

      It’s only too late if you’re dead and gone on to heaven.

      Do you desire to be a pilot to fulfill a childhood dream or as a change in careers? If you plan to fly for the airlines, you’ll have to consider carefully the cost and time involved in getting the needed flight hours to apply for an entry-level airline job, and the return-on-investment equation. Airline pilots’ mandatory retirement age is 67. Do you think you have enough time to recover the amount you’ll spend getting at least a Commercial Pilot License?

      Of course if that is not really the main consideration for becoming a pilot, i.e., your wish to become a pilot is fueled by the desire to become one of the awesome, then by all means, go for it!

      Never let age or negative comments or detractors tell you that you’re too old. Age is just a number, and if you are mentally, emotionally and physically fit, then you can do anything if you put your mind to it!

      “Aviation is proof that given the will, we have the capacity to achieve the impossible.”

      – Quote by Edward Vernon Rickenbacker (October 8, 1890 – July 23, 1973), World War 1 fighter ace pilot, Medal of Honor recipient, race car driver, automotive designer, government consultant on military matters and pioneer in air transportation.

      Reply
  25. Good day Captain!

    I’m 17 years old and will be taking my college entrance exams this year. My plan was to take up BS Computer Science but lately I’ve been thinking of wanting to be a pilot. I read that you can take up any 4 year course, but is it cheaper if I take something related to flying? Like Air Transportation?

    Also, how do you get flight hours? And is it different flying a smaller plane from the bigger ones like in airlines?

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Dear Sarah,

      Congratulations on wanting to become one of the awesome! (I’m talking about pilots, not computer geeks. No offense to the geeks.)

      It’s not cheaper to take up an aviation-related course because you’re either a pilot or not. An Air Transportation makes you eligible for further training as a pilot, or you can start working as an airport manager, or a flight attendant, or ground crew/ticket counter staff, etc.

      Learning to fly is expensive because of the flight hours’ charges. It varies from type of aircraft, and a two-seater airplane is cheaper to rent than a four-seater. But the minimum number of flight hours needed for a particular license is fixed by the government, so that requirement has to be met whichever type of airplane you train in.

      Flight hours are recorded in your pilot’s logbook, and begins from the time you start the aircraft’s engine to the time you shut it down and remove the key. You can find pilot logbooks in National Bookstore if you wish to see what they look like. As a student pilot your logbook will be countersigned by your flight instructor to prove you actually flew.

      Flying a smaller plane is no different from flying the big ones, in that the basics are the same. Sure, the big ones are a lot more complicated, and have a gazillion more buttons and switches and levers and displays and lighted panels and L.E.D. screens, but the basic elements are the same. You still have a throttle, a control yoke, rudder pedals, wings, engine(s), ailerons, flaps, rudder, tail, landing gear, navigational lights, rotating beacons, landing lights, etc. The main difference is in a small plane the lavatory is on the ground.

      Reply
  26. Are we guaranteed to have a job after finishing the course and ppl and cpl? And if we met the requirements? Also sir does the flight school you go to affects the probability of getting hired as a com pilot in an airline?

    Reply
    • Dear Kyle,

      There are no guarantees in life aside from death and taxes.

      First things first. Get a pilot license. It’s a process with no shortcuts because it teaches you discipline and perseverance. While getting a Commercial Pilot License you can also finish a college degree, and vice versa. Having a CPL means you get paid to fly passengers and/or cargo, while the Private Pilot License means you don’t get paid.

      The flight school you learned from DOES NOT MATTER to the airline companies. A pilot is a pilot is a pilot. As long as you have the necessary licenses, certificates, ratings and qualifications, you’re a possible hire.

      Can you get a job if you have finished the course and gotten the licenses and are qualified? Absolutely. Will you get the job you want in the company you applied with? Only if you’re the only applicant. Remember, you’ll be competing with others who have the same dreams and same or better qualifications. But as my late father-in-law used to say, “There’s always room for the good.”

      Reply
  27. Do I really need to go to college/university to work in airlines?

    Can I go to college/university (not related to aviation) while training flights?

    Reply
    • Dear Lawrence,

      The airlines require their pilot-applicants to have a bachelor’s degree, so you do need to go to college/university.

      Take note that any baccalaureate degree is acceptable.

      However, learning to fly does not require a bachelor’s degree. Student pilots can be as young as 16. The required minimum number of flight hours for the Airline Transport Pilot License is 1,500 hours as pilot-in-command, and this takes a long time to achieve. Starting early means that you’ll be ready by the time you graduate from college.

      Reply
  28. Hi!
    anyone here who can help me choose which of these flying schools should i pick for my PPL, CPL & IR?
    Leading edge international aviation academy or masters flying school?
    I am really having a hard time in choosing which one is the best school.

    thank you!

    Reply
    • Dear Lunax,

      Have you talked to any of the pilots who went to, are planning to, or are going to that school? Or have you talked to the admin people from either school?

      According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines website, both schools are currently registered and active as flight schools, meaning they are legally allowed to provide flight instruction to aspiring pilots.

      Beyond that, there is no such thing as the best school. It would be better to do a lot of research or ask a lot of questions and find the school that makes you feel comfortable with.

      You won’t learn if you don’t feel comfortable, and with flying, mistakes could be fatal. Besides, getting your PPL is simply step one. You can always get your other licenses and ratings from other schools.fer

      Reply
    • Dear Jexh,

      As a dentist and a pilot, this is what I have to say:

      Having a good smile imparts confidence in your passengers, since people judge others by their smiles with missing teeth instead of missing eyebrows. As long as you can distinguish different colors (especially red and green, because anti-collision lights are red and green), can breathe normally (because air gets thinner at higher altitudes), have never had recent dizziness nor fainting spells (because the passengers might not know how to land), are not deaf (because if you can’t hear the Tower, you won’t be cleared for take off), then your teeth don’t have to be a toothpaste-model’s smile.

      Most pilots start out having perfect teeth, but due to miscalculations or poor pre-flight checks, they lose their teeth in a sudden, uncontrolled, non-fatal emergency descent and impact with terrain. Then they’ll need dentures or bridges made by a dentist.

      “A good landing is one you walk away from. The best landing is when you can use the aircraft again.”

      Reply
        • Dear Rist,

          On your favorite search engine type “how to join philippine air force” and click on philpad.com/how-to-join-the-philippine-air-force-…..

          The website contains a lot of important and pertinent information for the topic you’re interested in.

          A word of caution: If you’re joining the PAF, be sure that you’re joining out of a sense of patriotism for our country, and not as a stepping stone to becoming an airline pilot because I don’t think your flight time in the service will count towards the requirements for the Airline Transport Pilot License.

          A long time ago that was the practice, that aspiring airline pilots would join the PAF to be taught to fly for free, and then when achieving the requisite training and flight hours, they would resign their commission and apply with the airlines. The government is smarter now, and that shortcut is now blocked.

          But if you desire to serve the country, look for the “How to Join the Philippine Air Force – AFP Transparency Seal” and open the page. It even has a downloadable application form.

          Reply
          • Dear Capt,

            Can you tell me about your step-by-step process or experience before you become a pilot? I badly wanna know so that I will have more knowledge about aviation industry especially in becoming an airline pilot.

  29. Dear Duke,

    Have you tried asking the airline’s medical examiner if you failed the hearing requirements?

    Don’t give up on your dream to be a pilot just because you might fail. The only thing that should stop you from trying is a fatal impact with terrain from altitude.

    Most people who read this thread think that becoming a pilot means flying a passenger airliner, because that is what most people are exposed to when they think of pilots. There are other types of pilots. Flying agricultural spray planes also has a high salary. If you get hired by a corporation, that also has a high pay grade. If your passion is flying, then you can become a Flight Instructor and teach what you know to a new batch of aviators. Pilot jobs are not limited to the airlines; it’s just the most easily recognized one.

    What do you mean by mild hearing loss? And exposed to loud environments? Do you listen to rock or heavy metal music with headphones and volume at maximum? Do you work with loud machinery with no hearing protectors? Do you get constant ear infections? Have your eardrums been punctured?

    Aviation headsets have volume controls, and I can always ask tower control to repeat instructions for clarity. Airliners have lots of soundproofing, and a REALLY good (which usually means expensive) aviation headset has excellent sound quality. So unless you’re completely deaf, or clinically deaf, I don’t believe that your chances of becoming an airline pilot (assuming that IS your dream; becoming a pilot is already awesome in and of itself) are impossible to achieve.

    “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzi

    Reply
    • Dear Captain,

      I am 15 years old and am currently 5.25 ft. in height. Do you think that I can be a future airline pilot with the requirements being 5.4ft?

      I am also planning to finish a degree in engineering in one of the Big 4 universities in the Philippines. After college, I plan to be a pilot…do you think I should start my pilot lessons after college or during?

      Thank you so much for your insights, and I hope to hear from you soon. Thank you

      Reply
      • Dear Bea,

        At your age, you’re probably still growing. Besides, it’s an issue or reach, not height per se. As in, can you reach all the buttons and switches and levers and rudder pedals from your pilot’s seat?

        As to getting a pilot’s license, you can do it after college graduation, or during your college years. Or if you want, wait until your 16th birthday then enroll in a flight school near you. The academic portion of flight instruction can be done in about a month, with two hours per session, then the practical portion where you sit in an airplane with an instructor beside you, and that’s a maximum of two hours flying, for safety.

        Flight hours are expensive, but necessary, if you want to upgrade your license from Student Pilot to Airline Transport Pilot. No shortcuts.

        The big issue is really flight time. You can only fly in clear daytime weather to gain the needed flight hours, and 1,500 flight hours is not easy to achieve. And expensive, so think of it as an investment. Which explains why pilots are paid good salaries: They had to work very hard and spent a LOT to get there.

        Reply
  30. Are there any height requirements to become a pilot, specifically for women? If so, what is the minimum height requirement?

    Reply
    • Dear Cie,

      There is no height requirement to become a pilot. Airline companies seem to require their pilots to be a at least 5 feet tall, but the rules change all the time. It used to be that airline pilots’ mandatory retirement age was 65. It is now 67 years old.

      Reply
      • Got it po, Capt. Also, what courses do you recommend po to take for aspiring pilots? Preferably and if possible, something that’s not deeply related to engineering. My mom told me that any bs course would do, but I’m trying to look for something connected to aviation as much as possible.

        Reply
        • Dear Cie,

          If your goal is to become an airline pilot, you have to finish a baccalaureate course prior to applying with the airline company. And the airlines will accept a degree from ANY course, not necessarily related to engineering. If you’re applying as an airline mechanic or aeronautical engineer, then naturally an aviation engineering course is required. But we don’t fix airplanes; we fly them!

          For aspiring pilots, here’s what you should do:

          1.) Enroll in a flight school and get a Student Pilot License.
          2.) After your Solo Flight (i.e. Graduation!), get an NTC Radio Operator’s License.
          3.) Get a Private Pilot License.
          4.) Get additional training for different ratings for your Commercial Pilot License.
          5.) Try becoming a Flight Instructor to gain the needed hours and get paid for it.
          6.) Try applying with the airlines and see if they’ll accept you, or keep flying until you can get your Airline Transport Pilot License.

          Along the way, finish college and get a Bachelor of Science degree. We fly the aircraft, and leave the aviation courses to other folks who wish to work on or design airplanes. Having a degree will serve as a fallback just in case you don’t get hired by an airline company. Hasn’t happened yet, to my knowledge, since the airlines desperately need more pilots, especially with the industry trend of opening more flight routes and more runways being built, even in our own country.

          Reply
      • Hi, capt. Have you heard about Pilot Cadet Program of Cebu Pacific? Do you think the contract will be rewarding? Thank you!

        Reply
        • Dear Rolando,

          CebPac allots 5 million pesos per student pilot applicant for training, and successful cadet pilots will have tenure with the company for 10 years to pay off the debt with salary deductions. That’s 42,000 pesos deducted from your salary monthly for 120 months.

          The training is done in Australia and the students will return to the Philippines to complete type rating (additional training to be allowed to fly turbojet aircraft and planes weighing more than 5,700 kgs. or 12,500 lbs.) and licensing requirements for Commercial Pilot Licenses.

          This is the reality of Philippine aviation programs. Other countries provide full scholarships (not a student loan), offer better pay, and a full Airline Transport Pilot License upon completion, but competition is stiff.

          How much does it cost to learn to fly anyway? (Rough estimates only) Tuition fee, books and other study materials, headset, NTC license, other miscellaneous fees – 100,000 pesos. Flight training hours for PPL (approx. 8,000 pesos per hour x 40 hours) – 320,000 pesos. Flight hours for CPL (200 hours) – 1,600,000 pesos. And the Holy Grail for pilots, the ATPL (1,500 hours minimum!) – a cool 12,000,000.

          Let’s call it around 12,500,000 pesos from enrollment to gaining the Airline Transport Pilot License, including all needed ratings and additional training and medical exams and other incidental fees.

          Can’t afford to learn on your own? Well, I’ve had this desire to become a pilot since the early 80’s, and now just started learning. Besides, there is no rush to learning to fly. It’s not a scheduled, structured thing that has to be accomplished in a certain amount of time. It’s more like growing a tree from a seed.

          Reply
          • Dear Capt,

            Since you mentioned it already the amount of money that will be deducted in the salary of the successful pilot during the cadet pilot program in Cebupac, may I know how much is the monthly salary for the First Officer and Captain?

  31. Hi capt, ive been following this thread for years. Because of this thread i made a decision to pursue my life long dream. Now i already have the money, choice of school and had may class ii medical certificate.

    Unfortunately the dr said the i might gping to have some difficulties in applying in airline because i have mild hearing loss. And it might worsen while im studying because im going to be expose in loud environment.

    Caap approve only the minimal requirements in medical but in airlines they’re more strict than caap.

    Should i continue or it is going to be waste of time and money if in the end i will not get the job that i dreamed for.

    Reply
    • Dear Duke,

      The decision to continue or quit is up to you. If the physician said you might have difficulty applying with the airlines because of your mild hearing loss, then buy a very nice pair of aviation headsets! Actually, you will always have difficulty applying with the airlines because of stiff competition from other applicants, and limited slots available.

      And if you don’t get that airline job, then go for cargo pilot, or agri pilot, or sightseeing tour pilot or flight instructor, or skydive pilot, or….. Get the point? Just because not everyone can be an airline transport pilot, that doesn’t mean the end! As long as you get paid to fly by getting a Commercial Pilot License, then your investment will be recovered.

      Never give up just because some difficulty is blocking your path. As legendary pilot Bob Hoover said, “If you’re faced with a forced landing, fly the thing as far into the crash as possible.”

      Reply
  32. Dear Dan,

    If you have the money, you can start already even before graduating from college. Enroll in a flight school near you, then fly on weekends until you have the necessary ratings and licenses and other stuff.

    If you don’t have the money to go to college AND learn to fly, then save as much of your daily allowance as you can, and/or get a summer job, and/or work in the course you graduated, then pay for your own flight lessons.

    What’s really important is getting your Commercial Pilot License, if you want to fly for a living. When you get that, then the options are diverse and a lot more accessible.

    Reply
      • Dear Dan,

        I checked again, and not only for our country’s airline companies but worldwide. The requirement is that pilot-applicants must be at least a college graduate from any college course.

        Let me clarify. First of all, learning to fly airplanes does not necessarily mean becoming an airline pilot. An Airline Transport Pilot License is simply the highest civilian license, allowing a pilot to fly passenger airliners.

        The second highest is the Commercial Pilot License, which means you can charge passengers a fee to fly them or their cargo. Having a CPL means you can start applying and getting a job as a pilot, either for private individuals, corporations or the government.

        Next lower down is the Private Pilot License, where you can fly passengers and packages but don’t get paid to fly. It is similar to driving your own car, in that you can give family and friends a ride to the beach or the mall, while the CPL is being like a taxi driver.

        And the Student Pilot License is the one you get when you begin learning to fly, where a Flight Instructor will sit beside you as you take off from the runway and go up into the air at the controls of a small trainer aircraft.

        Reply
        • I want to be an airline pilot. So capt. How will i get that Airline Transport license? Do i need to go in big college school for the educational background in the future?

          Reply
          • Dear Dan,

            1. Finish a four-year college degree.
            2. Learn to fly.
            3. Get the Airline Transport Pilot License.
            4. Apply with an airline company.

            Type this up on a piece of paper, put it in a frame, and stick the frame on your bedroom wall. This is your life plan. Make it so!

            There are no shortcuts to life. Before we run, we must learn to walk. Before we walk, we must learn to stand up. Before we stand up, we must learn to crawl. Do the best in everything, even if it is just crawling.

          • Any 4 year course will do right? Does the airline company in our country are accepting even though it is non-aviation related course?

  33. Hello Capt.,

    I have a question. My brother-in-law didn’t complete his 10-year course in seminary. He dreams to be a pilot and is now considering aviation school. My question is – it is mandatory to complete a bachelor degree to become a pilot – even prior to aviation school?

    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Dear MG Seg,

      It is not necessary to have a bachelor’s degree to become a pilot! You can start getting a Student Pilot License at the age of 16, in fact.

      As for those aspiring to be Airline Transport Pilots (the highest civilian pilot license available), there is a requirement that airline companies stipulate a bachelor’s degree in any course, and not necessarily aviation-related. My understanding of this, according to my research, is that getting a degree demonstrates a sense of maturity and levelheadedness which would (hopefully) prepare an airliner pilot to handle difficult situations in the air and on the runway.

      Regarding your brother-in-law, I guess that would fall in the category of a special case. But before we can run marathons, we must learn to stand on our own two feet. He still has to become a Student Pilot, then gain enough hours to qualify for a Private Pilot License, then if he so desires, get additional training and even more flight hours to become a Commercial Pilot. When he gets his CPL, then he can decide if he would pursue the airliner job, or fly for private corporations, or do agricultural spraying work, or do sky tours, etc.

      Can he fly for the airlines even without a bachelor’s degree? Probably. He’s an ex-seminarian, so one might say it’s a different breed of people. The worst that could happen is that the airlines would reject his application. It doesn’t mean that he loses his pilot license. He can always go down another path, such as corporate pilot. The sky’s the limit. 😉

      Reply
  34. Good day! I was wondering if I can already undergo a medical exam specialized for pilots (or future pilots hehe) before starting to learn how to fly. It will be a waste of time and money if I already learned how to fly then get rejected afterward because of my medical exam results. Also, what flight school do you recommend?

    Reply
    • Dear Regie,

      To be 100% certain, go to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines head office and get checked out by one of the Aviation Medical Examiners.

      However, generally speaking, pilots should be free from physical infirmities, no heart problems, have good blood pressure, no hearing problems, have healthy lungs, no illegal drug use, able to discern different colors, not an alcoholic, mentally stable, no nervous system issues, not insulin dependent if diabetic, no history of epilepsy, nor recent fainting spells, no recurrent headaches, eyesight less than 20/20 should wear eyeglasses, no recurrent infections, no arthritis, osteoporosis, or other joint disorders, not HIV positive, etc. An NBI clearance is required also.

      Simply put, if you’re not healthy, don’t become a pilot. It’s an issue of safety. You might be carrying passengers one day, and if you’re not healthy enough to safely fly the airplane, you could take other lives with you. And that isn’t a good idea.

      If you enroll in a flight school, they’ll get you checked out for a Student Pilot License even before you are accepted for Ground School or Ground Instruction, the academic aspect of flight, or learning the Basics of Aerodynamics, Weather, Aircraft Parts, Radio Communication, etc.

      As to what flight school, it’s simple. Find one where you feel comfortable. The office staff should be friendly and knowledgeable. The equipment should be well-maintained. Remember, if the plane breaks down, you can’t just stop, get out and look under the hood. When you meet the instructors, you should feel at ease being around them.

      Pilots belong to a fraternity, and as such, are consummate professionals when it comes to their duty because safety is our primary concern. We gladly welcome new members.

      Reply
  35. Good evening Captain!

    I was planning to join to an “Ab-Initio Pilot Training Program” of PAL Aviation School, but based on one of there minimum requirements, one must have a clear 20/20 eye vision but I always wear eyeglasses. Will they still accept trainees like me who always wear eyeglasses?

    Thank you very much for your information.

    Reply
    • Dear Kyle,

      Yes, I read that also on PAL’s list of requirements, along with a minimum height requirement. Government regulations have no such height requirement, and poor eyesight corrected with eyeglasses is allowed. The worst PAL can do is reject your application. Never have a defeatist attitude; the world is difficult enough as it is. Patience, perseverance and dedication helps us achieve all our goals.

      I’ve seen short pilots, and pilots wearing eyeglasses. I’ve met a few pilots who were short and wore eyeglasses. They don’t all work for PAL, but they do fly airliners and company jets. What should concern you and other pilot-applicants is your cardiac and respiratory health instead. If you have heart or lung problems, you don’t get to fly. Period.

      “When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.”- Henry Ford

      Reply
  36. Hello captain, I am a graduating shs student and I have no idea on what to take in college. I’m wondering if i should do a double degree or not since I want to be an airline pilot. I took a test at Air link International College and I passed BS aviation major in flying and I don’t know if I should take up this course instantly without having a 4 year degree. On the other hand I have my other back-up courses like dentistry.

    Reply
    • Dear Trisha,

      There are some issues regarding Airlink International Aviation College. Not good reviews. Caveat emptor.

      As to whether a Senior High graduating student should take up an aviation-related course if their goal is to become an airline pilot, my answer is, “It’s not necessary.” Flying for the airlines does not require an aviation degree.

      Consider: Whether you take public transportation, a Grab/Uber vehicle or a private car to your destination, the bottom line is you reach the destination, correct? Let’s say you took up Aviation, which in this case is similar to taking your own car. If the car breaks down on the way, you’re stuck. If you take public transport and that breaks down, you just get off and take another vehicle to continue your trip.

      The airlines (worldwide, mind you) requires their pilot-applicants to have a baccalaureate degree, meaning having graduated from ANY four-year course. Of course, if your course takes 5 or 6 years to finish, that’s still fine. What’s critical is the training you received and the experience you gained as a pilot. Let’s suppose you took up some other course not related to aviation. You could still learn to fly during weekends or summer vacation between school years. Learning to fly doesn’t take a long time. Gaining the necessary flight time does.

      Don’t limit your options by taking up Aviation. What if later you find out you’re medically disqualified to be a pilot? Your car just came to a screeching halt. Let’s say you took up BS Accounting, and flew around on weekends and holidays. By the time you graduate, you would probably have accumulated enough flight time to meet the requirements for the Airline Transport Pilot License (1,500 hours flight time). Maybe you would have been able to squeeze in time for additional training and ratings. If you aim for the airlines, it’s going to be expensive. But then again, what worthy endeavor isn’t?

      Being a dentist myself, I would highly recommend taking up Dentistry! Why? Because if you’re really good at it, you’ll make a lot of money for your flight time and additional training! A win-win situation. And even if you don’t get to fly for the airlines, becoming a pilot, in and of itself, is awesome!

      Taking up Dentistry is the Grab/Uber option, in case anybody is wondering. 😉

      Reply
      • Hi capt! 🙂 i’m very curious of this thing. Is it really not required to take an aviation course or related course to become a pilot? Even i take a nursing,business,or IT course? I can still be a pilot after i finish my bachelor’s degree of any of that?

        I’m SHS graduating students too.

        Reply
        • Dear Dan,

          It is not required to take an aviation related course just to become a pilot.

          To become a pilot, the minimum requirements are that the applicant for a Student Pilot Authorization is at least 16 years, can read, speak and understand English, and must hold a current Class 2 Medical Certificate.

          There is no stipulation in the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations requiring those who wish to become pilots needing to take up an aviation related course before, during or after getting your pilot license.

          If you want to be an airline pilot someday, then getting a bachelor’s degree is one of their requirements for their applicants. You can graduate as a nurse, an accountant, an IT specialist, a computer programmer/engineer, a physical therapist, a lawyer, psychologist or even a forester, as long as you have the appropriate pilot license and flight time.

          Reply
  37. Hi Captain!

    I just wanna ask if which course would be very convenient and would really be helpful when I want to be a pilot. Should I pursue BS Air Transportation or BS Aviation Technology Major in Flying? What advantages and disadvantages do they have? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Dear Marie,

      It depends on the school offering the said courses. The Philippine State College of Aeronautics offers Bachelor of Science in Air Transportation (I think) as a pilot-producing course. Other schools offer it as an airport operations management course only, and nothing to do with flying an aircraft. Best to inquire with the school if the course is pilot-oriented or management-oriented.

      There are hybrid courses which offer Majors in Flying, geared to producing pilots for the airlines, or you can pursue a non-aviation related course and STILL study to become a pilot!

      The airlines requires their pilot-applicants to be bachelor’s degree holders of any 4-year course, be it Engineering, Nursing, Accounting, Business Management, etc. aside from the other requirements, of course.

      Whatever way you choose to eventually end up flying a passenger plane, always remember that it takes dedication, perseverance, patience and skill to get there. It will be worth it in the end.

      Reply
      • Good Day Captain,

        Airlink Offers a 3 Year Course in
        BS Aviaton/Flying
        I was just wondering if that 3 year course is enough because in all the previous comments I’ve read it said it was required to finish a 4 year course.

        Thank you in Advance for your Reply!

        Reply
        • Dear Raphael Ian,

          On this particular rule, I believe it is non-negotiable. I checked, and airline companies worldwide have the same rule, in that applicants have to have a FOUR-year degree under their belts. I believe it has to do with maturity and intellect of the individual. They want pilots who can handle difficult situations in a professional manner, who can make snap decisions to prevent the loss of life, and are stable enough to avoid flying the aircraft into the side of a mountain because of depression (Andreas Gunter Lubitz, Germanwings Flight 9525).

          Even the Air Force accepts applicants who are at least 21 years old to begin the process of eventually flying fighter aircraft, although I hear that those guys are already 25 by the time they start getting in the pilot seat of a trainer aircraft.

          It doesn’t have to be aviation related! As long as you graduate from any four-year course, you qualify to apply to fly for the airlines. You can even start learning to fly WHILE taking up a baccalaureate degree! Remember, experience counts a lot more than academics. You can fly on weekends or holidays or in between school years. 1,500 flight hours is not easy to achieve, even if you have your own airplane.

          By the way, Airlink International Aviation College doesn’t have good reviews as a school. There is even an article about some issues regarding graduation expenses. I suggest checking it out.

          Reply
  38. Good day Captain!

    I’m a graduating student and still don’t know what major to take up in college. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a pilot but the problem is I lack in height (5’0) and I’m a girl that’s why I’m hesitating to study aviation. I’d like to get a degree in engineering course first before proceeding to study in a flight school to ensure that I’d get a job after. Is it okay to do that? Also, what are the two engineering courses that will be best for me to take up — which is also related in aviation and have a higher chance to be an engineer in an airline. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Dear Ashly,

      I just want to ask: Have you ever asked a pilot if being a girl who is 5 feet tall is a hindrance to becoming a pilot? As I understand it, those requirements are not set in stone (the height issue), and the problem is actually REACH, or being able to reach all the switches, knobs, buttons and levers. There are a lot of short pilots, and cockpit seats are already adjustable anyway. Don’t give up the dream just because it seems impossible to achieve.

      I’m terrible at mathematics, so I despise Engineering. The airlines accept applicants who graduated from ANY 4-year course, and have at least a Commercial Pilot License. Age should be around 25. Nothing about being a girl. Sure, there seems to be a height limitation, but I don’t think that is still current. For fighter pilots, yes, it is critical, along with other body measurements, but for airliners, I don’t believe it is.

      To be sure, the next time you ride an airliner, ask the flight attendant if the captain will allow you to sit in the cockpit to see if you can reach the controls, because you also want to fly airliners. They don’t allow passengers to enter the cockpit for security reasons, but if you show them your Student Pilot License, then they’ll be happy to show you around!

      Reply
  39. Good day Captain!
    I’m planning to take BS in aviation major in Flying this school year which covers both ppl and cpl. I want to be an airline pilot, to be an airline pilot what are the licenses required/ I need to have? and what are your school recommendation for getting those other licenses? hope you can answer this! Thanks and Godbless

    Reply
    • Dear ema,

      Check out Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines website and find the RPAS, ATO and AOC Holders List. Under that is an updated List of Flying and Maintenance Schools as of (month) 2019. If the school you want to attend is on that list, then it’s accredited by the government.

      I hear Boeing has a course for those wanting to become airline pilots. The course costs 5 million pesos and you’ll be qualified to fly Boeing aircraft upon course completion.

      Reply
    • Good Day Captain!

      I’m an upcoming Grade 12 STEM student, I’m currently having problems regarding my future since there’s only a few time left for making decisions about it. Being a pilot has always been my dream but I realized that I won’t be able to pursue it because of the requirements needed. I’m only 4’9 and I have poor eyesight so I feel like these qualities hindrances me from becoming a pilot. I was wondering if despite having those qualities mentioned, I still have a chance in pursuing my dreams. Plus if I’m going to take a 4 year course, which is a also a requirement, what course is the best fit or like something that I can use or utilize while being a pilot. Also do you know any amazing flight schools here in the Philippines that have a reasonable price since money might also be a problem. And if those flight schools accept me despite being short and having poor eyesight. Also do you have any tips that I should know before taking the risk to become a pilot? Thank you so much 🙂

      Reply
      • Dear Danica,

        To become a pilot is an awesome job. And most people think that pilots only fly airliners. Sure, our exposure to pilots are when we take a plane ride somewhere, but if you enter the world of aviation, you’ll realize that not all pilots fly for the airline companies!

        Some pilots are flight instructors, others fly corporate aircraft, or cargo planes, or air taxis, or sky tours, etc. Flying for the airlines is actually quite boring. You fly up way above the ground where you can’t see details until you begin landing. And then the next time you fly, it’s the same procedure all over again.

        However, the airlines doesn’t really enforce the height requirement; it’s more a question of reach, or being able to manipulate all the buttons, levers, switches, and pedals. And eyeglasses are allowed. The baccalaureate degree is needed, though. Any course will do, be it Engineering, Nursing, Accounting, Psychology, Business Administration, Physical Therapy, etc. But if you want to fly as a pilot but not for the airlines, then the degree is no longer an issue. It would be nice to have a back-up, of course.

        Now, as to amazing flight schools in the Philippines. Try asking around. Any good flight school understands that some student pilots may have other obligations or are still going to school (since the student pilot’s minimum age requirement is 16) and may not be able to attend a structured classroom setup, so they offer special classes or one-on-one instruction.

        What is really expensive would be the flight hours that a pilot has to achieve to gain a new license. This cost depends on the type of aircraft used, and two-seaters are cheaper than four-seaters, single-engine planes are cheaper than twin-engines, and so on and so forth. You’ll be paying for the rental, and fuel used, and flight instructor’s salary, all of which is computed per hour. To pay for this, you could save your allowance, or ask help from relatives, or take out a loan, or work and use your salary.

        Learning to fly is an investment, as with all things worthwhile. It’s a financial struggle until you get your Commercial Pilot License, because then you can now charge passengers for flying them around.

        Tips: Never give up the dream. Learn as much as you can, especially on YouTube. Don’t be ashamed to ask questions. Save money, but don’t despair if the cost seems immense. You will find a way. Persevere.

        Reply
  40. Good day Captain!
    I’m just curious since I’m going to college this school year and I’m going to take Aviation Major in Flying which covers both PPL and CPL, what are the other licenses required to be an airline pilot?

    Reply
    • Dear Ema,

      Airline Transport Pilot License would be the last one you’d need. Plus you’ll need ratings in the type of aircraft, depending on it’s Maximum Take Off Weight, and Multi-Engine Rating, etc. etc. It’s going to cost a lot, but it’s worth it.

      Daunting? Not really. Tedious, though. But if you persevere, then the rewards will be great!

      Reply
  41. Good Day Captain,

    Im a Grade 11 STEM Student and i was wondering if i should take the specialized course of Engineering and Physics? Because i dont know if going through the hassle of doing engineering and physics and just using minimal knowledge i gained from that strand when i pursue aviation.
    also, does wearing eyeglasses hinder me from becoming a pilot or are people just trying to scare me? HAHAHA

    Thanks in Advance po

    Reply
    • Dear Raphael Ian,

      If you want to become a Philippine Air Force fighter pilot, then courses in Engineering and Physics are PREFERRED, but NOT REQUIRED.

      I’m a dentist, and I am also learning to fly planes. Always been in the back of my mind, and now I can afford it. I don’t plan to fly for the airlines, nor become a Commercial Pilot. Becoming a Private Pilot is good enough for me. Also, being over 40, I wear reading glasses. Corrective lenses are allowed for civilian pilots.

      Engineering and Physics are critical if you intend to pursue a career as an aircraft designer. You can either design planes, or fix them, or fly them. Rarely have I ever heard of an aeronautical engineer who fixes the planes he flies. Maybe there are, but what for? There are pilots and aircraft mechanics already, so focus on your job and let others do theirs.

      Reply
  42. Hello Capt! Im 13 yrs old and i want to become a military pilot someday. May i ask you captain? Is Bs in Aeronautical Sciemce is related for being a pilot? And what does that mean? Pasensya na po kase bata po ako kaya na cucurious po ako at nagtatanong tanong po hehhe. Salamat po!

    Reply
    • Dear Averine,

      Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science means that those who have this degree study the science of flight, and are involved with designing and developing aircraft. You can become a pilot, a flight engineer, an airplane technician, air traffic controller or a non-jet military pilot.

      But if you want to be a military pilot, wait until you are at least 17 years old then enter the Philippine Military Academy with Air Force as your branch of service. Or you can graduate from any 4-year course (although courses in physics, chemistry, computer science or engineering are preferred) and apply with the Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate School. By the way, the minimum age for Student Pilots is 16 years old.

      Never be afraid to ask questions, because knowledge happens only when your questions are answered.

      Reply
  43. Good Day Captain!

    I would like to ask if there are any scholarship programs for people like me who wants to be a pilot but doesn’t really have enough money to pay for pilot trainings or any scholarship programs that support students who would take up Aviation?  Are there any scholarship programs that you can suggest? Thank you Captain, I would really appreciate it!

    Reply
    • Dear Isha,

      The Philippine State College of Aeronautics offers free college education, since it is a government school. Cebu Pacific has a scholarship program for those willing to work for them.

      And globally, many air carriers are offering lower rates for their pilot training programs because the industry has realized that the problem is in the cost of training, and not in the lack of trainees. A lot of kids want to be pilots but are daunted by the cost, so airline companies worldwide are now offering scholarship programs and even sign-up bonuses for flight instructors. Try applying online and have your passport ready. It won’t be easy, but remember, planes fly INTO the wind!

      Reply
      • Captain,

        how often are you away from home? ive always wondered what life would be like as a pilot.
        because i’d be missing my family alot if i were to be gone for long periods of time every week or so.

        thank you in advance captain!

        Reply
        • Dear Raphael Ian,

          As a Student Pilot, I am rarely away from home! But if you fly far away enough, you’ll be introduced to the Pilot’s Life: Remain Over Night!

          This means you’ll be stuck somewhere because the weather in your home airport, or mechanical problems, prevent you from flying back home and you’ll have to overnight where you landed. Doesn’t matter if you’re a Student Pilot, Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Airline Pilot or Military Pilot.

          It would be advisable to carry a spare set of clothes, fully charged battery packs, toothbrush and toothpaste, and cash. Begin doing this when you start Flight Instruction so it would become second nature when you fly for the airlines. It’s happened to me, and I was unprepared. Good thing I had cash on hand. Had to stay in a beach resort and buy a t-shirt.The next morning, my instructor and I flew back to our home airport and I had a new experience to add to my collection. You learn from your mistakes, and learn from others also.

          Reply
      • Hi capt. I would like to ask if pag graduate po ba ng BSTM (Tourism management) pwede mag direct training for pilot or need muna maging Flight attendant before pilot? Thanks in advance capt.

        Reply
        • Dear Daniel Barry,

          You can even start learning to fly while taking up Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management. And since that’s a 4-year course, you are eligible to apply for the airlines as a pilot instead of cabin crew only. Assuming that’s your ultimate goal: To fly in front, instead of sit in the back with the rest of the passengers.

          Reply
    • Hello Capt. Good day.
      I’m 16 years old . I’ve always wanted to become a Pilot.Now that I’m about to go to Senior high,I don’t really know what to do and where to go. I am still undecided on what strand should i take.Also,my height is only 4’11.
      Am i still qualified to become a pilot even if my height is only 4’ll?. Thanks Captain.
      Have a good day

      Reply
      • Dear Ella,

        As to what strand you’ll take, it depends on what you wish to pursue in college. As to what course to pursue in college, with regards to what the airlines require, it’s any four-year course.

        As to height, it is not as important as reach. If you can reach all the switches and lever and buttons and pedals, then you can become a pilot! If you want, find a flight school that has a simulator and ask if you can try it just to see if you can reach everything.

        And since you’re already 16, you can start learning to fly! Student Pilots should be at least 16, and if your dream is to fly for the airlines, you can start getting your flight experience as early as now. It will be expensive, tiring, tedious and exciting.

        Reply
  44. Good Day Captain!

    I’m planning to pursue BS Aviation Technology in college, however I’m quite unsure to take a risk especially with money since as we all know pursuing a pilot position cost a lot, so I would like to ask you Captain if what are the chances for me that I can get a job as an airline pilot after passing all the requirements and getting myself the licenses needed? Will it be easy for a woman like me to get a job instantly or will it take awhile? I would also like to ask Captain if how much would it cost to get ATPL?

    Reply
    • Dear Alisha,

      I suggest taking up BS in Air Transportation, which is geared to producing pilots. In reality, you just need a bachelor’s degree in ANY (minimum 4-year) course, and learn flying during weekends or summer, then go through the process of getting your flight hours and licenses.

      And to everyone reading this comment, close your mouths and listen carefully;-):

      The chances of your getting a job as a pilot are very good. Air travel is increasing, and airline companies are shifting to smaller planes, since the jumbo jets are difficult to fill up with passengers. It’s similar to a bus line, in that the bus, to be economically viable, has to travel with all seats filled up. Making that happen takes time, but the other passengers cannot wait for too long and might want the bus to leave so as to make their appointments also, so the company has to get smaller buses which fill up quickly and leave the terminal faster. So instead of one large bus that seats about 400 people, the company gets two buses that seat 200 each, doubling their fleet but maintaining efficiency.

      Same thing with the airlines. Smaller planes also mean more pilots, since each aircraft needs at least two pilots, and since pilots’ mandatory retirement age is 67, it opens up opportunities for new pilots. New hires get to fly entry-level positions, usually First Officers for the regional turboprop aircraft, also known as puddle jumpers. As you progress, and more pilots retire, you get bumped up the ladder until one day you’ll be flying international.

      And passengers don’t care if their driver is a man or a woman. That being said, you have to remember that you’re competing with other applicants for the same position. That is reality.

      Getting an Airline Transport Pilot License will cost around 5 million pesos and a minimum of 1,500 flight hours. However, there are many ways to get hired for the airlines. Some airlines accept pilots who only have a Commercial Pilot License with Instrument and Multi-Engine Rating. And there are many other flight jobs out there aside from being an airline pilot. You can start recovering expenses as soon as you get your CPL. You can fly sky tours, or for private companies, for the government, and for agricultural spraying, to name a few.

      Reply
    • Dear Paul,

      To fly the wide-bodies, a pilot must have an Airline Transport Pilot License and a Class 1 Medical Certificate. To apply for the Civil Aviation Authority’s (or Federal Aviation Authority if in the US) exam for the license, the applicant needs to have at least 1,500 hours flight time.

      Sadly, this is not cumulative. Simply put, you should have flown that amount of time counted from the moment you received your Commercial Pilot License. To get the CPL, you have to have 250 hours flying around with your Private Pilot License. To get that, you need 50 hours flying as a Student Pilot.

      However, if you do have the money, and are diligent, you can go from zero to hero in 3 to 4 years. But you also have to factor in the fact that the airlines requires that pilot-applicants must be baccalaureate degree holders (from any course, and not necessarily aviation-related). You’ll see that it could take from 5 to 6 years to get the ATPL.

      But if I’m not mistaken, the airlines are relaxing the rules a bit, hiring First Officers who just have about 250 hours flight time, although they only fly the turboprop aircraft. It’s a step in the right direction, sort of an entry-level position where you work your way up to the big leagues. It shouldn’t take too long. Pilots’ mandatory retirement age is 67, and as the airline companies are getting more planes, they need lots more pilots.

      In a nutshell, this means that in a year, if you already are a degree holder, you could start flying for the airlines! This is extremely simplified, since there are a lot of other things (Multi-Engine Rating, Instrument Rating, experience in jet engine aircraft, getting the Class1 Medical, etc. etc. etc.) but it answers your question, hopefully adding to your knowledge and challenging you to pursue a career in flight.

      Life is simple. Eat. Sleep. Fly.

      Reply
      • Good evening Captain! I am currently 16 yrs old and going Grade 11. I am undecided if I should go STEM or ABM. My dream job is really to become a commercial pilot, but I know it is very expensive. Can you give me suggestion on what I take or what I can do? What is the cheapest way to get into a commercial airline? What are the right steps? Thanks

        Reply
        • Dear Anton,

          To apply for the airlines, you’ll need to have a baccalaureate or bachelor’s degree in ANY 4-year course. I have to emphasize that and make it as clear as a cloudless sky.

          For example, PAL requires its applicants to be:
          1. A Filipino citizen.
          2. 5’4″ in height, although shorter pilots do exist, since it’s a matter of being able to reach all the buttons and switches in the cockpit.
          3. Good eyesight is required, although eyeglasses are allowed.
          4. Must be a college graduate
          5. You must be proficient in English because: a.) There’s a lot of paperwork you need to fill up before each flight, and b.) English is the language of international aviation, and communication is key to safety.
          6. The applicant also needs to already have Radiotelephone Operator Certificate.
          7. And have a Commercial Pilot License with an Instrument Rating, with 500 flying hours under your belt.

          As with all worthwhile endeavors, dedication, perseverance and patience are necessary to achieve your dreams and make them reality. Financially, everything is a challenge, but somehow we do find the means to finish the task.

          And now, here are the steps to achieving your goal of becoming one of the awesome:

          At 16,you are now qualified to apply for flight training. Search for a flight school (preferably one close to your home and/or the airport) and inquire what are the things you need to get a Student Pilot License. Mind you, becoming a pilot does not mean you have to take up an AVIATION-related course! You can go for the structured classroom setup or have a qualified pilot instructor teach you on a one-on-one basis, depending on which method is most convenient.

          See if you can afford the Ground Lessons, and get started on them. Pretty soon you’ll be gathering your requirements for your Student Pilot License application, and within a month or so, you’ll receive the SPL and now you start your Flight Lessons. And the rest, as they say, is history.

          Just get started, and don’t think of the total expenses. Just try to find what you can afford now, and start working on it NOW. There will be times that obstacles will seem just impossible to surmount, but when you do, and look back, you’ll realize those hindrances weren’t so huge after all.

          “A mile of highway will take you a mile. A mile of runway will take you anywhere.” – Author unknown

          P.S. Two miles of runway is even better! You’ll get this joke when you start flying. 😉

          Reply
          • Thank you for the answer! May I ask what school is preferred, especially if I want to work on an international airline? Thanks

        • Dear Anton,

          Just realized you asked another question but wasn’t able to see it.

          Anyway, if you get an Airline Transport Pilot License in the Philippines, then you can apply in other countries’ airline companies since the regulations are similar from one country to another, as long as the country is a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization, an agency of the United Nations dealing with international air travel.

          Reply
      • great read capt. may i also ask if you have knowledge how military pilots transition to commercial pilots? does it follow the same requirements and steps of getting ppl and cpl?

        Reply
        • Dear Borsky,

          Military pilots can transition to commercial pilots if they quit their commissions. In effect, resigning from the military and becoming a civilian. Military pilots can apply with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to have their military pilot licenses converted to Commercial Pilot Licenses. with the applicable instrument rating and category and class rating for the aircraft that the military pilot flew while in the service.

          Reply
  45. Good day Captain! do you have any suggestions / tips on how to gain flight hours quickly? I want to be a pilot in PAL soon, but I don’t know how to have enough flight hours to be able to work there. Thankyou!

    Reply
    • Dear Em,

      Buy your own airplane.

      Wait, scratch that. Even if you had your own airplane, you’d be limited to a maximum of 4 hours fuel time anyway. If your plane had more than that, it would be a multi-crew aircraft, and you won’t be allowed by law to fly more than a certain number of hours a month.

      Anyway, going back to your particular problem, my only suggestion is fly as often as the weather allows. If you have a Commercial Pilot License already, try applying with the airlines. There aren’t enough pilots to fly the aircraft they’ve bought, and the government has mandatory crew rest period requirements, so airline pilots don’t get too tired and risk destroying the aircraft, to say nothing of the passengers.

      With a minimum of 250 flight hours, you can be eligible for First Officer position in the puddle jumpers, or the island-hopping turbo propeller aircraft that Cebu Pac and PAL have. From there, it’s all a matter of seniority. What’s important is getting your foot in the door, and flying safely. Speaking of flying safely, try getting some Upset Prevention and Recovery Training, which is NOT aerobatic training, and someday might save your life and maybe even mine!

      The biggest problem with airliners nowadays is Controlled Flight Into Terrain, or plainly said, crashing. UPRT could help condition you to the stress of an unusual attitude, and muscle memory could save the aircraft.

      Reply
    • Hi Capt, is it too late for a person on his early 40s to start flight training? I know I am joining the game late, I don’t have the resources when I was in my 20s, my work is related to airline operations though, I am based in ME and working in 1 of the big 3 carriers, I have save enough for my flight training and would not want to have regrets later on my life that I didn’t do anything to fulfill the dream.
      Is it doable for a person on my age and is it still possible to captain that big shiny jets, thanks

      Reply
      • Dear Ruddervator78,

        I started learning to fly at age 47. What was your question again? 😉

        We who dream to be awesome rarely have the funding needed to make our ambitions happen at an early age. However, with age comes wisdom and courage, aside from resources to make the impossible achievable.

        My suggestion for a person of your age? Get checked out by an Aviation Medical Examiner before applying to be a Student Pilot. The AME is the person best qualified to determine if you’re qualified to fly an aircraft.

        Mandatory retirement age for pilots is 67 years. So if you pass the medical exams, and get enough flight hours to qualify to be a First Officer, then you have a better chance than the new kids, since you are already working for the airlines. However, even if you don’t get to fly an airliner, flying the smaller aircraft is really a big deal.

        “Nine-tenths of wisdom is being wise in time.” – Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., statesman, sportsman, conservationist, writer, and 26th President of the United States

        Reply
      • I’m a 32 year old, female nurse. I want to change career paths to become a pilot. Nursing was my parents choice but I am an introvert and I hate dealing with sick and sometimes irate patients, watchers and doctors. Honestly, I like handling machines than dealing with people. I love travelling. I am working here in Ireland and has current application as nurse to US but in the back of my mind, I still want to be a pilot. Studying to be a pilot might be very expensive in the US/Ireland. I want to save money and pursue this in the Philippines. I just hope that an aviation school will accept me.

        Reply
        • Dear Sheba,

          Have you tried inquiring about flight training in Ireland? The minimum age for student pilots is 16. And no flight school refuses money! Learning to fly can be expensive, since you’re paying your share for the maintenance of the aircraft, the fuel consumed, the government taxes, landing fees (yes, you have to pay a fee to land on a runway, just like a parking fee) and salaries of the people involved (ground/flight instructors, mechanics, office staff) aside from the minimal profit expected by the fixed-base operator/flight school.

          Granted, if you’ve saved enough euros, then you’ll be well able to afford flight training in the Philippines. And once you gain your Commercial Pilot License, you can offer flight tours and get paid! Nursing is one of those professions where the professional’s patience will really be stretched to the limits, and sometimes, beyond. And if you don’t enjoy what you do, there really is no point doing it. But once you experience flight, you’ll always be looking toward the sky.

          At the end of the day, some might ask: Is it worth it?

          A patient, finding out that I took up flight training, asked me where the best view was. I replied, “From up there.”

          Reply
  46. Good day captain, I just want to ask if after i get my degree in aviation, can i now become an airline pilot? or i still need to take exams like for PPL and CPL?

    Reply
    • Dear aj,

      Most disasters begin with “I know a shortcut….”

      Getting a degree in aviation (presumably a baccalaureate degree, which is what the airlines require) only means that you now have a degree in aviation. You still have to take and pass the Civil Aviation authority of the Philippines exams for your Private Pilot License, accumulate the needed flight hours and additional instruction for the Commercial Pilot License, then once more fly often enough to get the minimum required flight time, critical training and pass the Airline Transport Pilot License exams AND the Class 1 Medical Certificate requirements, otherwise your dream of flying for PAL or Cebu Pac or JAL or Singapore Airlines or Delta or Northwest or CAL or Aeroflot or KLM or Tiger Air or Virgin or Braniff will be just that: a dream.

      Staggering? Maybe. But remember this quote from World War 1 flying ace, Captain Edward Vernon Rickenbacker: “Aviation is proof that, given the will, we have the capacity to achieve the impossible.”

      Reply
      • Hi Captain!! I just completed my senior high school days with IT (Information technology) behind my back,So this is the case.I been wanting to be pilot since the time i started HS.How to achieve this dream?I am lacking of information on how to be a pilot?

        Reply
        • Dear Cemz,

          First of all, find a flight school nearby, and inquire. Ask about tuition costs, and availability of flight instructors.

          If you can afford the cost of Ground Instruction, then enroll. Flight schools are flexible; they can offer one-on-one instruction even for Ground School, where you learn the academic aspect of flight. It took me about a month, with tw0-hour sessions every other day.

          Afterwards, I began Flight Instruction, so I had to apply for a Student Pilot License, which involves getting an NBI clearance, lab test results, drug test result, chest x-ray, cardio result with strip, hearing exam result, eye exam result, and the requisite 2 pcs. 1×1 ID picture. There might be other requirements, but those are what I remember having to get.

          You’ll have to be examined personally by the Aviation Medical Examiner, and then your SPL application will be processed. As soon as that arrives, schedule your Orientation Flight with the school, and get to know your Flight Instructor and your trainer aircraft.

          “Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” – Laozi (Lao Tzu/Lao-Tze), ancient Chinese philosopher and writer

          Reply
  47. hi Captain! I really really realllyyy love to be a pilot. I’m actually a graduating student and this coming June, I’ll be a college student. I’ve done a lot of research and I saw Airlink offering aviation major in flying. I’m considering taking that course since I took their entrance exam and I passed! Is taking Aviation major in flying in Airlink a good choice if I want to be an airline pilot? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Dear Art,

      It limits your options in case you find out later on that you get airsick, or have poor eyesight, or have lung problems or a heart condition, or have fainting spells, or have poor English skills, or something else that will eventually prevent you from achieving your goal of becoming an Airline Transport Pilot.

      Word of advice? Inquire from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines if you are medically qualified to become a pilot. Learning to fly is just a short course, and can be done fairly quickly and student pilots do not need to take up aviation courses even if they wish to aim for the airlines. What is expensive is the needed flight hours (1,500 minimum) to qualify for the airline pilot license. There are ways around it, of course. You can apply with Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific directly, or take up a fallback baccalaureate degree and learn to fly during the summer and get the flying hours when you’re not going to classes.

      As for Airlink International Aviation School, there is some controversy regarding graduation expenses. You might want to check it out, and if uncomfortable with it, there is always the Philippine State College of Aviation. Don’t limit your options to just one; seek out alternatives.

      Go to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines’ website, and go down and click the tab with RPAS, ATO and AOC Holders List, then click on the List of Flying and Maintenance Schools as of February 2019 link and view it to see which schools are government accredited, and ask questions regarding tuition and aircraft availability, and training schedules.

      “The engine is the heart of an airplane, but the pilot is its soul.” – Walter Alexander Raleigh

      Reply
  48. Hi Captain!

    Does being a pilot requires one to be good in math and science specifically? I on the other hand isn’t really fond of the two subjects however, I really want to be a pilot. Any advice you can give Captain? I’d really appreciate it. Thank you 🙂

    Reply
    • Dear Alisha,

      Only if you want to be a military pilot. Otherwise, a basic understanding of the principles of math and science would be enough. I’ve never excelled in either subject either.

      Advice? Never give up your dream to be awesome.

      There will be lots of hurdles to overcome, especially financial. Yes, getting flight time is expensive, since you’ll be renting an airplane and fuel to fly. Plus your rental fee also contributes to the mechanic who maintains the aircraft for safe flight, and to the runway fee because each time you land, the airport operator charges for it, and the security guard’s salary also has to be paid since he logs the aircraft number for each aircraft that lands and takes off from the small runway in whatever island you practice your landings on, and the flight instructor who helped you gain the confidence to fly solo, who stood on the runway while you started your solo flight, praying desperately that he taught you well enough that you won’t crash.

      Aside from that, other obstacles would be the weather and time. You can’t fly in bad weather, and it would be hard to find time to enjoy flying since other things would be keeping you on the ground, unless you’re lucky enough to find a job as a commercial pilot, then you’ll be flying all the time.

      Exercise regularly, maintain a low weight, and if you have the money and the time, take up Upset Prevention and Recovery Training to avoid destroying the airplane. Eat carrots for good eyesight, don’t smoke, you can’t drink alcoholic beverages at least 8 hours before any flight, and don’t do drugs. You’ll get a natural high from flying high. When the wheels leave the ground……. you’ll understand when you start flying. 😉

      I don’t know who said this quote, but “Most people only dream of what pilots have seen.”

      Reply
  49. Hi Capt,

    I am medical doctor but I am planning to enroll in fly school near my place this year. It would mean doing a major career shift in my part. Well, I don’t mind leaving the medical profession at least in the hospital setting. I know I can always apply the ‘doctor skills’ whenever necessary. I am curious though if there are doctor pilots you know out there? At least for the sake of sharing sentiments. LOL. Medical profession is rewarding but this pilot thing keeps on tugging. And it gets stronger as years pile up to my age. I’m in my early 30’s by the way. Thanks Capt.

    Reply
    • Dear Dr. Ngo,

      You’re asking if there are any doctor pilots?

      The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia, the Flying Physicians Association in the United States of America, the AMREF Flying Doctors in Africa, the United States Air Force Pilot Physician Program, and the Aviation Medical Examiners are often physicians who are also aviators.

      I’ve always wanted to fly planes since I was young. As of this writing, I am a Student Pilot with a Class 2 Medical Certificate and less than 50 hours flight time. I’m also a 50-year-old dentist. 🙂

      “The way I see it, you can either work for a living or you can fly airplanes. Me, I’d rather fly.” – Albert George Leonard Morgan, American aviator, writer, publisher, entrepreneur, photogrammetrist and investor.

      Reply
      • Dear Judith,

        Yes. Next question?

        Just kidding. The Philippines State College of Aviation accepts candidates from all walks of life, being a government-supported school offering free education to Filipinos.

        PhilSCA has campuses in Pasay City, Floridablanca in Pampanga, another in Lipa City, Batangas, one in Lapu-lapu City, Cebu and Lingayen in Pangasinan.

        The appear to be planning to build two additional campuses, in Guimaras and another one in Medellin, Cebu.

        Remember that only the tuition fee for the course is free, and there are a lot of applicants. But hard work always pays off, and if you enjoy flying, you’ll want to give up walking. 😉

        Reply
        • I just want to clarify sir that Philippine State College of Aeronautics does not have a campus in Lingayen, Pangasinan. Fly Fast Aviation School, flying school tied-up to PhilSCA, is the one operating there.

          I’ll take this opportunity sir to ask a question. I stopped flying 2 years ago and want to go back this year. What are the requirements for me to get back to flying? Do you think the Cadet Pilot Program offered by Ceb Pac will be a good choice?

          Thank you and Godbless!

          Reply
          • Dear Jean,

            Thank you for the clarification re PhilSCA’s tie-up with Fly Fast. Wasn’t aware of that, although it’s understandable because the government has to coordinate with other flying schools for the Flight Instruction Phase of learning aviation, because aircraft are expensive to maintain and state colleges must use their budget for many courses.

            As to your question, what expired pilot license do you currently hold?

            Checking with CAAP rules, if your license is more than 24 months expired, you’ll have to go through Ground and Flight Instruction AGAIN, and take the Practical exam AGAIN and pass the Medical Exam to renew your medical certificate.

            As to the Cadet Pilot Program offered by Cebu Pacific, I can only comment insofar as the feedback I’ve heard from friends who underwent the program, ok?

            According to my friend, if you don’t have money for expenses, it will be tough. Ceb Pac is supposed to give their cadet pilots an allowance for food, but the entire allowance was given at the end of the training only. Plus you’ll be tied up with Ceb Pac for 10 years.

            It really depends on how you see your career as an aviator. If you can take it, well and good. If not, then you’ll have to spend for it yourself, and when you get your Airline Transport Pilot License, you can apply with any airline worldwide. Good luck, Captain Jean!

          • Good evening Doc/Capt! I was supposed to take my IR Checkride last 2 years but I stopped. I am currently a CPL holder. I renewed my medical license and NTC license last year hoping I can get back to flying.

            Thank you for your informations captain about the Cadet Training Program. I applied twice but still having doubts about the said program.

            May I ask where are you currently flying?

            Thank you and Godbless!

  50. Hi sir. I am the one that ask a question about BSAT. Can you clarify which course is the best course for me to become a commerical pilot? They said I need a Bachelor’s Degree to become an airline pilot. So taking 6 months pilot training is not an option for me.

    Also, If I successfully graduated and have my commercial license a year after. Then I got a job and fly an agricultural plane. Would I need additional training if I decided to work on a passenger plane?

    Lastly, how much does an agricultural spray pilot make compare to those private pilot and airline pilot?

    Thanks Captain!

    Reply
    • Dear FuturePilot,

      Let’s clarify the requirements, shall we?

      You need to become a Student Pilot and then a Private Pilot before becoming a Commercial Pilot, then you can get a job as a pilot. If you want to become an Airline Transport Pilot, you need to graduate from any 4-year course. If you can become a Commercial Pilot in 6 months, while taking up a Bachelor’s Degree, well and good! When you graduate, you can then apply with the airlines.

      If you already have a CPL and flew agri planes, you’ll need additional training to fly jet engine aircraft. But agri flying only happens in the early hours of the morning, and you get paid, whereas airline pilots are required to fly during different hours of the day, and sometimes remain overnight in the destination. You get paid a lot, but the airlines will squeeze every single centavo out of you also, working you like a carabao.

      Private pilots don’t earn anything. They are not allowed to charge anything for flying. All their flying is free, gratis, charity, libre, walang bayad. Passengers can share for the fuel, but that’s all.

      But remember, if the salary is big, the company will also demand a lot from you.

      “Flying is more than a sport and more than a job; flying is pure passion and desire, which fill a lifteime.” – Adolf Galland, German Luftwaffe General and flying ace

      Reply
  51. Good Day Captain. I am currently working as a Nurse for two years now but the dream has always been to become a Pilot. So my main concern here Cap is, can I still become a commercial Pilot? How long will it take me to become one?

    Reply
    • Dear Pauline,

      Yes, you can still become a Commercial Pilot! As long as you pass the medical requirements and the government exams, you can still live the dream of being one of the awesome!

      Flight schools are generally flexible. Ground Instruction can be accomplished on your days off, or on weekends, or whenever you have about two hours available. Afterwards, it gets a bit more difficult, because flight training only happens during daytime hours, in clear weather (Trust me, nobody wants to learn flying at night during a storm.). Accumulate enough flight experience as a Student Pilot and then take the Civil Aviation Authority’s written and practical exams, then wait for your Private Pilot License (Yes, everybody passes. If you were able to take the exams, it means you’re competent enough to fly.), get additional training and then fly at least 200 hours or so, then exams again for your Commercial Pilot License, then voila! you’re now able to charge passengers for flying them around.

      Never give up your dreams, because if you enjoy what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life!

      Reply
        • Dear Pauline,

          “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady of the United States, from March 4, 1933 to April 12, 1945

          Reply
      • Good day capt. I’m gr.9 student po and our teacher po gave us a activity that we are going to make a resume and having job interview this coming Friday.I wanna ask lang po if how long years I’m gonna take in college and in others to become a air force pilot po thank you

        Reply
        • Dear Michaella,

          According to my research, these are the requirements for those wishing to become a Philippine Air Force pilot:

          If you’re between 17 to 21 years old, enter the Philippine Military Academy with Air Force as your branch of service. Upon graduation, you’ll receive the rank of Second Lieutenant in the PAF.

          If you’re already 21 to 29 years of age, and holder of a Baccalaureate Degree from any course (although scientific courses such as Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Chemistry, etc. are preferred), you can enter the Philippine Air Force Officer Candidate School.

          If you already have at least a Private Pilot License, then your chances of entering the Philippine Air Force Flight School to get Military Pilot Training is even better. Candidates who are between 21 to 26 with a rank of 2Lt. are ideal.

          Candidates must have their Commander’s Letter of Recommendation to enter the PAFFS, where successful applicants have to pass the Military Pilot Aptitude Test, be at least 5’4″ to 6’5″ and not overweight. Seated height must be between 34 and 40 inches tall, have 20/20 vision, and not color-blind.

          You will be disqualified if you have problems with depth perception, have had laser eye surgery, have asthmatic or hay fever attacks or allergic episodes after age 12.

          So, that means you have to finish 4 years in the PMA or 4-5 years in college, then apply with the PAFFS, or get a Private Pilot License while you are going to college.

          Good luck on your activity! I hope i was able to be of assistance.

          Reply
    • Dear Marionjoseph,

      None whatsoever!

      If you want to be a pilot, start learning as soon as you are 16 years old, the minimum age allowed. Private pilots should be at least 17 years of age.

      If you want to become an airline pilot, you need to have a Bachelor’s Degree. From any course. That’s a documentary requirement from the airlines, along with your pilot’s logbook showing that you’ve got a large number of flight hours experience, and your Class 1 Medical Certificate, plus your Pilot’s License which shows the needed type ratings, prior to application with the airline company.

      But if you become a Commercial Pilot, you can stop there and start applying with companies as a corporate pilot, or agricultural spray pilot, or air charter, air taxi, cargo pilot, etc. and start earning back the money you spent learning to fly.

      Reply
  52. Hello, Captain! May I ask if someone could become a pilot even if he/she has eye problems (such as myopia)?
    Also, is pilot training rigorous?

    Reply
    • Dear Marionjoseph,

      I am a student pilot beyond 40 years old, and I suffer from presyopia, or the loss of near focusing ability of the eye that normally occurs with age. I wear reading glasses when doing aviation paperwork, or using checklists during preflight.

      Myopia, or near-sightedness, needs corrective lenses. As long as you get cleared by the Aviation Medical Examiner, then you can still become a pilot.

      Question number 2: Is pilot training rigorous? Rigorous means extremely careful and thorough. Think about it for a while.

      Flying airplanes involves a certain risk, known as “Controlled Flight Into Terrain,” or colloquially, crashing. Training naturally has to be rigorous. But your fear of CFIT will make you precise and attentive in your flight training.

      In aviation, you’ll hear a lot of quotes, like:

      Safety means the number of takeoffs equal the number of landings.

      The are old pilots, and there are bold pilots. But there are no old, bold pilots.

      A good landing is one you walk away from. A great landing is when you can use the airplane again. 😉

      Reply
  53. Hi Sir. I am about to take BS in Air Transportation in PhilSCA, and as per the law that was sponsored by Bam Aquino, all state university will now be free. My question is, is BSAT the fastest way to become a pilot with bachelor’s degree? If I’m not mistaken, according to their curriculum, the student will take basic ground course, etc. on theit 4th year. Also, how much do you think will be the remaining cost that I need to become a commercial pilot?

    Reply
    • Dear FuturePilot,

      I checked the facts, and it was Senator Ralph Recto who was the author of the bill providing for free college education in the country, and Senators Bam Aquino and Chiz Escudero co-sponsored it on the Senate floor, or only presented it to the Senate. Let us give credit to where credit is due.

      Philippine State College of Aeronautics also offers the Private Pilot Basic Ground Course and Flight Training, Commercial Pilot Advanced Ground Course and Flight Training, Instrument Training and Multi-Engine Training. This would assist you greatly if you aspire for the Airline Transport Pilot License.

      Is this the fastest way? No. You can always learn to fly during the summer, and weather permitting, accomplish everything within a six-month period, all the way to the Multi-Engine Rating.

      The airline companies worldwide require their pilot-applicants to have a 4-year degree in ANY course, and aside from the requisite ratings (Instrument Rating, Multi-Engine Rating, etc.), the most flight experience. Simply put, you could be an engineer, a nurse, an accountant, a pre-med student and still apply for the airlines. You don’t have to take up BS Aviation.

      As to cost, how much do you want to be a pilot? That is exactly how much it will cost. 🙂

      Reply
  54. Good day Captain!

    I would like to know if it is necessary to get an ATPL if you want to become a pilot? Can one initially proceed to being a captain in command without becoming a first officer or a co-pilot? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Dear Snow,

      Here’s the chronological order of pilot licenses:

      1. Student Pilot License
      2. Private Pilot License
      3. Commercial Pilot License
      4. Airline Transport Pilot License

      You get number 1 when you finish Ground Instruction and pass a medical exam. It is needed, along with your Class 2 Medical Certificate, when you start Flight Instruction. And when your flight instructor says that you are finally ready to fly solo, you are now pilot-in-command. You will never forget your solo flight.

      The second license (no, I won’t call it “Number 2”) is given to the student pilot after accomplishing the needed flight hours and passing government exams and getting all the other needed documents. This gives you the freedom to fly any airplane that you have been rated to fly. As a pilot, your passengers now call you “Captain.”

      License 3 allows you to get paid to fly. You can now apply for any job that involves flying and receive a salary or compensation to do so. This opens up your horizons and starts helping you realize your dream of getting back all the money you spent on flight hours.

      And finally, the license that most pilots aspire to! As the name suggests, you are now qualified to fly a very large number of passengers on a fairly regular basis and be paid a lot of money for each flight hour of travel between runways. Sitting inside the airliner while doing the preflight does not count toward your salary.

      So, to answer your question directly, it is not necessary to get an ATPL to become a pilot, and you become captain when you start flying, even as a student pilot, and after your solo, you are now in command of the aircraft, and decisions and consequences are resting squarely on your shoulders, so I suggest gaining as much flight-hour experience and training as you can afford to be able to fly safely.

      Flying is not dangerous; crashing is! Cheers!

      Reply
  55. would it be hard if i take (BSAMT) bachelor in science aircraft maintenance and pursue to become a pilot after?what would be it’s process?

    Reply
    • Dear Dre,

      It really depends on your reason for becoming a pilot. What would be your ultimate goal? Do you wish to fly for profit or just for recreation?

      Learning to fly is easy, if you have the right stuff: Money, time, physical fitness and English proficiency. Money because flight hours are expensive; Time, because the weather is a fickle thing and flying in foul weather is downright life-threatening, unless you’re a storm chaser working for the meteorological services. Physical fitness is important because a pilot cannot fly without a license AND a medical certificate; and English proficiency is critical because communicating on aircraft radios requires speaking and understanding English.

      Taking up Bachelor of Science in Aircraft Maintenance Technology will make you a proficient aircraft mechanic, and not a pilot. Mechanics repair planes while pilot fly planes. Pilots are not allowed to repair nor replace any aircraft parts, other than to do minor adjustments to cockpit instruments and to check fluid levels.

      You may take up BSAMT if it’s a four-year course, to satisfy the documentary requirement for airline pilot applicants. Of course, you still need to become a pilot by first enrolling in a flight school, attending Ground Instruction, applying for a Student Pilot License, getting your Medical Certificate (which is renewed on a regular basis), flying with a Flight Instructor for your flight training, graduating by flying solo, then practice flying to gain the minimum required flight hours before the next step: the Private Pilot License. At that point, you’ll know what you need to do next.

      “Blessed are the aircraft mechanics! The dirty, tired, and bloody. For they are the ones which air travel depends on.” – aviation quote

      Reply
    • Dear Dre,

      It really depends on what kind of pilot you want to be afterwards: working or recreational?

      If you’re aiming to make it a career and wish to fly for the airlines, make sure that the course is four years long, because it’s a documentary requirement for the airline pilots: graduate of ANY four-year course.

      If you don’t aspire for the airlines but still aspire for a flying career, then being able to fix the airplane is an advantage. It’s sort of like knowing how to check your car’s engine so you won’t have to see a mechanic each time your car makes funny noises under the hood. As soon as you get a Commercial Pilot License you can be paid to fly, and if you also have an Aviation Maintenance Technician License, you’ll be able to get a job fairly quickly, as you’ll be able to offer potential employers a bargain deal. Having an airplane mechanic who actually flies the airplane he fixes is a very good confidence builder.

      If you have the money and the time, do both at the same time. BS-AMT is usually a classroom-type course with a regular schedule, while learning to fly could be done one-on-one during weekends or whenever you have free time. Just set it up with your Ground School Instructor.

      And when you graduate as an Aviation Maintenance Technician, you can even apply for on-the-job training with the flight school where you’re learning to fly! A win-win situation, giving back to those who helped you.

      Reply
  56. Good Day Captian.

    I’m interested to know how much does it cost to get a PPL and CPL at any flying schools here in Philippines. Thank you 🙂

    Reply
    • Dear Lisha,

      Rough estimate? About 2,100,000 pesos.

      The large amount would be due to the minimum number of flight hours needed for each license category. Private Pilot License requires 50 hours and Commercial Pilot License requires 200 hours. Although I would suggest getting more hours for each license category, and if you can, get basic aerobatic or emergency maneuvers training just so you can get out of unusual flight attitudes.

      Airplanes don’t care about flight attitude; pilots do. Did you know airplanes will fly inverted? Given enough airspeed, airplanes will keep going straight and level, although the pilot may feel lightheaded after a while.

      “I’m a pilot. To save time, let’s just assume I’m never wrong.” 😉

      Reply
        • Dear Mhenard,

          I had to stop and think for a while regarding your question. I think I comprehend the situation.

          I guess this confuses a lot of potential student pilots because they are thinking that flight school is like going to high school or college, in that you attend classes according to the schedule of the school and if you miss a class, you’re marked absent and it reflects on your final grade as your conduct, and will determine whether you graduate or are expelled.

          That is not the way flight schools operate. It’s more of learn-at-your-own-speed, or individualized instruction. Yes, most schools do a classroom setup to accommodate more students under one instructor, but it doesn’t mean you have to graduate with your classmates. Some will get the hang of flying faster than others and will solo earlier, while others may take years to fully comprehend flight instruction and finally fly solo. It doesn’t make you any less of a pilot.

          Getting a Private Pilot License means you’ve met the minimum flight time, gotten the National Telecommunication Commission’s Radio Operator License-Aircraft I.D., and passed the Civil Aviation Authority’s exams.

          Regarding the 6-month PPL, let me explain: Ground Instruction, which on average takes about two hours a day, can be accomplished in about a month. After that comes Flight Instruction. As a PPL needs a minimum of 40 hours, and flights have a safety rule of maximum two hours flying around for training, and if a student pilot flies daily, he can meet the minimum in about 20 days.

          So, you can go from an SPL to a PPL in about two months! This can be done with any flight school accredited by the government. But if you want to take 6 months to get your PPL, it’s fine. You can take as long as you need. Then again, the weather, your finances and your own free time will determine how long it will take you to get your PPL.

          I hope this clarifies a lot of questions about flight school schedules. But if it doesn’t, I’ll try to answer even more clearly (I hope).

          Reply
  57. Hello, I’m currently 15 years old and wish to become a pilot when I finish College, is there anything that I should study while studying in school or any courses that I have to take?

    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Dear Kurt,

      If you search on the internet, you’ll find that you have to be good in this subject and that subject. In my opinion, those answers were written by people who aren’t pilots.

      If you are lousy at Mathematics, or Physics, or Electronics, or Social Studies, or whatever else, it doesn’t matter. You must excel at English. Be able to read, speak and comprehend it.

      if you’re aiming for the airlines, a degree from any four-year course is one of their documentary requirements, but experience still counts a lot more.

      But as a practical matter, all you need to know about flying will be taught to you during Ground School/Instruction before you step into an airplane for Flight School/Instruction, and there will be instructors at each phase.

      When you get to fly solo, that means that your Flight Instructor has seen that you are capable of flying the airplane competently enough not to damage the airplane, nor kill yourself in the process.

      Reply
  58. Hello Capt.

    Can you get a CPL and PPL license without that 4 year course and what are the chances that can still get a job as an commercial pilot?

    Just a little confuse..

    Reply
    • Dear Kristian,

      Yes. Anything else you need to know?

      Just kidding.

      It all starts with a desire to be awesome, realizing that the path is steep (You’re aiming for the sky, after all. Double entendre joke.) and still deciding to pursue that dream, no matter what obstacles are placed in your way.

      From a practical point of view, you have to have funding, good health, 360 degree situational awareness, and meticulous attention to detail.

      As for the 4-year course, in my opinion the airlines just want their pilot-applicants to be of a certain age and psychological state, i.e. 25 years old and able to handle problems in a mature way.

      Student pilots age requirement is 16 years old, minimum.You get an SPL (Student Pilot License), learn the basics of flight, then start training with an instructor, learn to operate the airplane safely, pass the government exams, get your PPL (Private Pilot License), and if you wish to make flying a career, get an Instrument Rating, maybe also a Multi-Engine Rating, gain the needed flight time, take the government exams again, get your CPL (Commercial Pilot License) then apply for a pilot job and finally get paid to fly.

      Reply
  59. Can I be a pilot even if my height is only 5’3 because I’m a little worried that I cannot become a pilot if my height is short

    Reply
    • Dear Niclaus,

      And for all others worried about the inability to become a pilot because of their lack of height, here’s the requirements:

      Philippine Airlines: minimum 162 cm.
      Cathay Pacific – 163 cm.
      Singapore Airlines – 165 cm.
      British Airways – 157 to 190 cm.
      Lufthansa – 165 to 198 cm.

      Satisfied?

      But what does it really mean? Simple. These airlines want their pilots to look good! Sort of like models who represent the company, getting admiring stares from passengers as the pilots walk along the terminal on the way to the aircraft..

      You will not find any civil aviation requirement anywhere in the world that has a height requirement for pilots. The US Navy Fighter Pilot is an exception. More on that later.

      Get your Commercial Pilot License, apply, and see if they reject you because of your height. Tendency is your flight experience will matter more than height or looks. Let’s say the airlines won’t accept you because of your height. Fine. Apply with cargo companies. FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc. Or become a corporate jet pilot. Or agricultural spraying pilot. Or traffic info pilot. Or….

      Flying an airliner is not the only pilot job out there; it just appears to be the most glamorous. But not everybody can be the star. Others have to be the villain, the love interest, the supporting cast, etc. There’s a job for you out there. Don’t give up hope because you’re short.

      Actually, being too tall could present more of a problem, since airplane cockpits tend to be cramped. In airliners, it’s more a question of reach. Can your hands reach all the buttons and switches? Can you see over the dashboard? Can you step on the rudders and brakes effectively? If you have doubts, step into an airplane cockpit and see for yourself.

      Right, you’re not yet a pilot, so this might be an issue. But take heart! Modern aircraft have adjustable seats! If they can put those things in cars, they definitely placed those in airplanes also. Height is no longer a practical issue.

      But, if there is a rule for everything, there must always be an exception to the rule. That exception being military pilots. The Luftwaffe requires a minimum height of 155 cm. or 5 feet tall. A US Navy pilot candidate must be at least 5’2″ and not taller than 6’5″, and can’t weigh more than 245 lbs., nor less than 103 lbs. Once that candidate is accepted, more measurements are taken, such as sitting height, buttock to knee length, thumb-tip reach, stature, etc.. From those measurements the pilot is assigned a code number that corresponds directly to the type of aircraft that pilot may fly!

      For example, a pilot with Code 4 (141 lbs., sitting-eye height 27.5 in., thumb-tip reach 27.5 in., butt to knee length 22.5 in., and sitting height 34.1 inches) may safely fly a T-6A or T-36C, but not a T-45A/C.

      So take heart, pilots come in all shapes and sizes, genders and age. As long as you are physically fit, speak English and have a desire to be awesome, you can become a pilot.

      Reply
  60. Good Day Captains

    How do I even start?

    I don’t know of any pilots or someone within the aviation field.

    I’m not really poor but I can’t afford enrolling to flying schools.
    I have a job, but even if I don’t eat 3 meals a day, not go out on weekends nor buy anything, I probably can’t save enough for flying..

    I’m at loss on how I can become a pilot. I dunno who to approach.

    Thank you for any responses.

    Reply
    • Dear ArmchairPilot,

      How do you know you can’t save enough for flying?

      Ah, you are looking at the bottom line, the sum total cost for learning to fly, the incredibly large number at the end, the staggering amount of the billing statement.

      This must be what made you think that you can’t save enough to learn to fly. Would it surprise you to know that even rich people find that amount significant? But they learn to fly anyway. Why? It’s not because they can afford it; it’s because they look at it as an investment.

      Some learn to fly to better themselves, some do it to eventually land a job, and some are just bored with travel on sea and land. But it IS an investment that requires patience, dedication and perseverance. Pilots find it is a worthy investment.

      If you really do wish to become one of the awesome, follow these tips:

      1. Find a flight school near your place of residence. If there is an airport, there’s a flight school. Call them up, and ask how much Ground Instruction costs. And if they offer Fly-now, pay-later financing. If they don’t, get a loan from relatives or a financial institution or your employer.

      2. If you are working, what hours do you work? Flight schools are flexible. Instructors can teach you evening, weekends, holidays, etc. depending on your schedule and your budget. Same goes for students in high school or senior high. Minimum age for student pilots is 16 years old.

      3. Do you speak English? Do you understand spoken English? Answer “No,” and you can kiss becoming a pilot goodbye. I won’t assume that just because you’re reading this, it also means you are proficient in speaking and understanding English. Radio calls are vital in aviation, and the language of international aviation is English.

      4. Are you physically fit? I’m not talking about height or such. Are you color-blind? Have high blood pressure? Got any debilitating diseases? Fainting spells? Hacking coughs? Remember, something happens to you while flying, you could die. And if it’s from a heart attack, it just means you die ahead of your passengers. Eyeglasses are allowed.

      5. You need an NBI clearance and pass a drug test. You’ll need these for your Student Pilot License application. With the requisite I.D. pictures, of course.

      Not so daunting anymore, correct? Broken down into smaller, more manageable pieces, learning to fly seems much easier to achieve.

      Live a life fulfilled.

      Reply
      • Thank you sir, at least I now have a process to follow.

        Although No.1 might be my problem since I live far from the airport.

        Manila Airport is the nearest to us (which is still far from us as I don’t live in Manila)

        Reply
        • Dear ArmchairPilot,

          I suggest finding another airport nearby. Manila International Airport is very busy, and you will not be able to fly as often as you want, because of runway traffic. Trainer aircraft have the lowest priority for runway use.

          Try searching for a flight school nearby, and then inquire where they have their students get flight training.

          It will be difficult for you to get a map of all the airports in the country because there are aerodromes that are not classified as airports, but do support flight schools. I know, I tried.

          Reply
  61. Hi capt
    Is there any schools offer scholarship (fly now pay later)in 2019? I really want to become a pilot but it’s too expensive.. I am planning now if I will sell my organs or not to pursue my dream just kidding hahahah

    Reply
    • Dear Mark,

      Try asking the flight schools near your area of residence. There has to be some method of fly now, pay later available, probably with some form of collateral or post-dated checks. Some banks seem to offer loans, and maybe relatives can also help out. You could also get a job and save money, just to show your parents or financiers that you are serious about pursuing the flying career/job/profession/hobby. Most schools are now getting into the scholarship program since the airline industry realizes that aspiring pilots can’t afford the expensive flight hours needed for the licenses and experience.

      Dedication and perseverance is key. if you want to succeed as a pilot, or anything else for that matter, you shouldn’t give up. Life will throw hardships your way, and you should overcome each obstacle. Period. It’s too expensive if you think so, and no longer that expensive when you start flying!

      Just keep trying to get into a flight school. You won’t regret it. Besides, i don’t think you have enough organs to sell. LOL!

      Reply
  62. Sir, I would like to ask the disadvantages of Study now, pay later’ as Cebu Pacific offer to become a Cadet Pilot. There is a possibility to become a commercial pilot to other airline after rendering 10 years from Cebu Pacific?

    Reply
    • Dear Marj,

      The disadvantage is you’ll be in Adelaide, Australia for the whole duration of your training. I don’t know if the tuition fee includes the housing and food, so you’ll have to ask them about that.

      You’ll be stuck with Cebu Pacific since you’ll sign a contract with them (10 years, right?) and some foreign pilots complain about the salary, the administrative side, etc. But I don’t hear many complaints from locals, so I guess it’s a cultural thing. Then again, you’re guaranteed a job for the next 10 years! When your contract expires, you’ll be eligible to work for another airline company, with 10 years experience.

      So other than that, I don’t see it as a disadvantage. It really depends on your disposition: Is the glass half-empty or half-full? You still have to pass their online screening, so it’s not a guarantee. Good luck!

      Reply
    • Dear Yvonne,

      Around 5 million pesos to get a Private Pilot License. That’s about what I have to pay (still need a few more hours to complete the required minimum 50 hours, plus the cost of exams for Radio Operator’s License, and the CAAP exams for Private Pilot License) but the estimate is close to the actual cost.

      Does it seem like a lot of money? Definitely, yes! However, this represents the sum TOTAL expense. Mind you, I didn’t pay this amount up front. I started with about 60,000 pesos for the flight school tuition fee, then about 30,000 pesos for the aviation books and then additional fees for medical exams and NBI clearance for the Class 2 Medical Certificate and processing fee for the Student Pilot License, after which you start paying for flight hour fees, which should include the rental fee for the airplane and the flight instructor’s fee. A Cessna 152 rental costs about 8,000 pesos per hour, and this is where the bulk of that very large figure can be found.

      But don’t be daunted by the cost! Try asking your parents how much your tuition cost, from kindergarten all the way through college. Then the figure show above would seem like peanuts.

      You don’t have to have that sort of money lying around, of course. You can get a job, and save for it. Or better yet, get your parents/relatives/godparents to pay for your Ground Instruction, then work and save money for the Flight Instruction. It would give you an additional sense of accomplishment, paying for your flight time on your own.

      There will always be a need for pilots, and not enough applicants. Too many people are afraid of flying, but they fly anyway. So there will always be a job for pilots, even if it takes them five years to become an airline pilot.

      I started learning to fly 3 years ago, and I’m still a Student Pilot. If I eventually get a Commercial Pilot License, I can become a Flight Instructor! And maybe I can start earning back the money I spent learning.

      The future belongs to those who look forward.

      Reply
      • Correction, 5 million (roughly, estimated, around, close to that amount, more or less) to get an Airline Transport Pilot License.

        p.s. If you get a Commercial Pilot License, you can start earning money for flying. Airline pilots make a lot of money, but it needs a lot of flight time. Just suggesting options.

        Reply
  63. HI CAPTAIN I AM TAKING AAET OR AVIONICS IN PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS IN PAMPANGA CAN I BECOME A PILOT IN THE FUTURE WITH6 MY AVIONICS COURSE AND HOW WILL I BECOME A PILOT

    Reply
    • Dear John France,

      Being an avionics tech means that you’ll be able to manage the cockpit instruments, i.e. fixing and maintaining the transponder, radio, GPS, electronic flight display (glass cockpit), etc.

      Doesn’t mean you’ll be able to fly an airplane. Doesn’t mean you CAN’T learn to fly an airplane, either.

      After graduating, or even while taking up the course, I suggest getting some ground lessons during weekends. Eventually you’ll also be able to get flight lessons. The main advantage of becoming an Associate in Aviation Electronics Technology is that you can pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation Electronics Technology and finish in just two years instead of four years required by the course (since you already spent two years getting the Associate degree anyway!).

      AAET or BSAET makes you eligible to apply for an electronics repairman position in any airline company. Consider it a fallback, not a step in the path to becoming a flyer. In much the same way that knowing how to fix a computer doesn’t make you a programmer.

      Kids, the path to becoming a pilot is: Expensive, difficult, tedious and extremely rewarding. There are no shortcuts. Hard work is required, and will be rewarded. Being an airline pilot is not as glamorous as you think, nor does it pay as well as you hope. Pilots get paid the big bucks for the amount of work they put in, meaning the harder you work, the higher the pay. Cargo pilots probably get paid better, and corporate pilots probably best of all. Then again, agricultural pilots get paid a lot for working only a few hours each morning. Confusing? Maybe. But life is all about choices and making mistakes and learning from them. So make choices, accept the mistakes and try not to kill yourself in the process.

      Good luck!

      Reply
  64. Hi Captain! I just would like to ask these questions because I have no idea in aviation because I am only in Grade 11

    A. When you are in flight school taking up a 4-year course, do you gain flight hours as you’re studying there? Like, when you graduate, do you start with 0?

    B. How do you gain flight hours before and after graduating? Do you only gain hours by flying a small plane around everyday to get the minimum?

    C. Do you have any tips for someone who is about to go to flight school? Say, study tips or courses/paths to take, and etc.

    Reply
    • Dear Kevin,

      to my knowledge, BS Aviation Major in Flying will get you the needed flight hours for a Private Pilot License, the most basic license in this profession. The government requirement is a minimum of about 40 or so flight hours, before you take the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines written and practical exam prior to getting your PPL. This will allow you to fly aircraft that you are rated for, and to bring passengers along. For free.

      To get paid to fly, you need a Commercial Pilot License, which is an upgrade to your PPL.This requires a minimum of about 100 or so hours, which you gain by flying around in a small plane as often as the weather allows and as long as your bank account still contains funds.

      Tips? Study the lessons in your aviation books, fly a flight simulator that is realistically set up (this is expensive, whether you do it yourself or just pay the flight school for use of theirs), always LOOK OUTSIDE the airplane and just GLANCE INSIDE at the flight instruments, work hard, enjoy flying a small plane, and RIGHT RUDDER!

      Hope this helps!

      p.s. Most important piece of advice: Don’t fly into clouds. Small planes don’t have collision avoidance radar, and if you can’t see the other plane, how would you know who has the right of way?

      Reply
      • Hi captain, money is my issue to become a pilot and i’m not rich like anyone who can afford enrolling in any flying school. Can you suggest any aviation course to me captain, to start my career? thank you!

        Reply
        • Dear Eric,

          I am not a fan of aviation courses because there is no guarantee that you can apply to become an airline pilot. At most, you’ll graduate with a Private Pilot License. Some schools offer a more intensive course outline until becoming a Commercial Pilot, but that’s where they stop. You still need to make the necessary flight time.

          The only real hindrance to gaining the minimum required flight hours is the weather. If a student pilot has the stamina, he can fly in the morning and in the afternoon for about two hours each time. A Private Pilot License needs about 50 flight hours, after which a Commercial Pilot License needs about 250 hours, for a total of 300 hours prior to applying with the airlines. Flying a Cessna 152 two-seater trainer aircraft costs on average 8,000 pesos an hour, so this would come out to 2,4 million. That’s a lot of money just for flight time!

          On average, First Officers earn 150,000 pesos a month, and Captains earn 500,000 pesos a month.

          Regarding your specific problem, Eric, consider taking out a loan, or working part-time, or full-time and fly when you’ve saved enough money. Or inquire about fly-now, pay-later programs. Reputable flight schools are flexible. And who knows, you might even end up becoming a flight instructor for the flight school itself!

          Don’t be discouraged by the TOTAL cost. Try asking your parents how much your tuition cost when you first started Kindergarten until you graduated High School. It’s all a matter of perspective. Any undertaking worth doing seems like a mountain, until you move the first pebble and don’t stop until you’ve created a flat field. Looking back, you’d wonder how you made it!

          Reply
  65. Hello Captain! Currently a Senior High School student in STEM. I just wanted to ask, which way of becoming a pilot is better?

    A. Through the Air Force in PMA, or,
    B. Enroll in a flight school

    And what are the pros and cons of each?

    Reply
    • Dear Daniel,

      The better way of becoming a pilot depends on what your goal is.

      Becoming an Philippine Air Force pilot is nice because the government takes care of your bills. Flying is expensive! If you choose the Air Force, you get to do things a little differently from civilian pilots. You get to fly into combat zones, fly close to the ground at high speed, live out your dreams as a fighter pilot in real life instead of a computer screen, get to shoot at things from an airplane, etc.

      And have the opportunity to get shot down, explode in mid-air from missiles, get killed saving soldiers on the ground.

      Going to flight school means it will cost a lot of money, but you can start right now! And if you persevere, you’ll eventually get a Commercial Pilot License and begin looking for a job flying planes. You can even become a Flight Instructor and teach others and pass on your knowledge.

      “Patience you must have, my young padawan.” – Yoda

      Reply
      • But sir, what about becoming an airline pilot? Would joining the air force and transferring to become an airline pilot after the air force is better? Or enroll to an aviation course in a flight school? Or apply in a cadetship program such as the one Cebu Pacific has? Which would be a better, faster, and more efficient way of becoming an airline pilot?

        Also, thank you for your reply Captain!

        Reply
        • Dear Daniel,

          Joining the Philippine Air Force just to get training and later moving on to the airlines is no longer viable since flight time as an Air Force officer is no longer credited to civilian pilot flight time. Even if you have 3,000 flight hours flying military aircraft, when you resign your commission, your flight time is back to zero.

          If you want to fly airlines, go to a flight school. You can try CebPac’s Cadet Pilot Program, but you still have to pay for every cent they spent on your flight training, via monthly salary deduction, for 10 years. If you can apply with other airline companies abroad, you’ll find a better setup because they offer full scholarships and employment tie-ups of only about 5 years or so.

          There are no shortcuts. It’s like growing a tree from a seed. Takes time, patience, and perseverance. And a lot of money. But then, if you want to become one of the awesome, it’s worth it!

          Reply
  66. Sir,

    I have nephew wanted to be a pilot but he has lung scar due to previous tuberculosis, he is now totally cured. Is there a chance he can be a commercial pilot? thanks ahead

    Reply
    • Dear Marj,

      To paraphrase Star Trek -The Original Series’ Dr. Leonard McCoy, I’m a dentist, not a physician. Only the Aviation Medical Examiner can make that determination.

      However, every cloud has a silver lining! I get my Class 2 Medical Certificate renewed annually, so I get checked out by the AME each year. Along with me is several other pilots, some younger, some older than I, and the AME always reminds them to get their blood pressure down, or get new eyeglasses, or lower their blood sugar levels, etc. And some of these guys are Flight Instructors! So I do believe your nephew has a very good chance to become a commercial pilot.

      Basically, the AME will check the chest x-ray and reading from the pulmonologist (lung doctor), aside from the electrocardiogram strip and reading from the cardiologist (heart doctor), the eye exam result from the optometrist (eye doctor), the hearing test results from the audiometrist (ear doctor), the drug test result, the urinalysis result, and dental certificate.

      Student pilot applicants also need a copy of their NSO birth certificate and NBI clearance. Plus 2 copies of 1×1 ID picture.

      Reply
      • Dear Capt. Enrique:

        Could you advise me on the colour vision requirements in Philippines? Is there any test that can be taken beside Ishihara Test? And also, could you share with me any information on the AME that I can get in touch with. Really appreciate it.

        Thank you.

        Regards.

        Reply
        • Dear Afs,

          The color blindness test is one of the medical exams that a potential pilot must NOT fail. We should be able to discern red and green, because wingtip lights are red on the left and green on the right, to help determine right-of-way.

          Additionally, the info on an electronic flight display are differently colored for ease of viewing. And if you can’t differentiate the colors on the heads-up display, you will miss a lot of critical info which would jeopardize safe flight.

          It’s for this very same reason pilots must not use polarized sunglasses: the colors would be blocked.

          The Aviation Medical Exam can be done in the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines head office in Metro Manila. I think you can get a schedule online.

          You can get your Medical Certificate even before you enroll in a flight school! This way, if you pass the medical requirements, then you can continue investing in learning to fly.

          Reply
    • Dear Erwin,

      Yes. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines website, Fastlink Aviation Training Center in Lingayen, Pangasinan is having their accreditation currently on process, as of November 2018.

      To verify if your chosen flight school is accredited, go to CAAP site, and on the right side of the page, select the blue plus symbol beside Philippine civil Aviation Regulations, and select CAR Aerodromes. When that page opens, select RPAS, ATO and AOC Holders List, and you’ll find the List of Flying and Maintenance Schools pdf. Find your school and if it’s name is listed in red, then find a new school and enroll there. Good luck!

      Reply
  67. Hello Captain! I’m currently a Grade 11 STEM student from Iloilo, and I was planning to go to PATTS in Manila for aviation when I graduate high school because I always dreamed of becoming an airline pilot. Is BS Aviation Major in Flying the best and the most relevent course of becoming a pilot? And is PATTS a good choice for that? And some bonus question for my worried self, do you have to be good in Math to become a pilot? Haha! Thanks!

    Reply
    • Dear Renz Daniel,

      First of all, make sure there are no flight schools near where you live. According to the map, Fast Aviation Academy is in Iloilo City.

      Ladies and gentlemen, future pilots of the Philippines, try to find a government-accredited flight school near your residence or domicile because:

      1. Costs will be similar anyway. Competitive pricing keeps costs equal. And government regulations keeps maintenance requirements and schedules the same. Flight costs per hour are similar.

      2. Weather is a major consideration. If it takes you about two hours to get to your flight school, the weather could change drastically, cancelling the flight for that day, and you’d have spent too much time going to the airport for nothing.

      3. Do you really need to add to the expense of learning to fly? It’s expensive enough without the added burden of board and lodging.

      As for the course to take, the airlines requires pilot cadets/applicants to be a graduate of any four-year course. And to demystify the whole flight education thing, let me give you the rules on learning to fly, as per the government regulations:

      1.The applicant for a student pilot authorization shall not be less than 16 years old. For airline pilots, retirement is at 67 years of age.

      2. Can read, speak and understand English. This is the language of international aviation. If you can’t speak it, don’t fly.

      3. Must hold a Class 2 Medical Certificate (for Student Pilots, Private Pilots, Flight Operations Officers, Glider Pilots and Free Balloon Pilots) which states, to wit:

      a. The applicant shall not suffer from any disease or disability which could render that applicant to be suddenly unable either to operate an aircraft safely or to perform assigned duties safely.

      Plainly said, it means:

      Must not be blind. Can see different colors correctly. Can see small objects in the distance, which might actually be an airplane approaching you at high speed. Eyeglasses and contact lenses are allowed.

      Must be healthy. Can breathe normally in high altitudes. No heart conditions can can result in a heart attack when you begin take-off and see the ground dropping fast. Mustn’t suffer from acrophobia. No drug use. Not an alcoholic.Driving drunk is bad enough.

      Nowhere does it say pilots have to hold a degree. Airline companies require this, for reasons I cannot fathom, unless as a fall back option in case the pilot applicant/cadet fails to make the cut. But pilots are in critical demand, so if you’ve graduated from a two-year course and have at least 200 flight hours already, try applying.

      Do excellent grades in Math matter? I flunked all versions of Math in school. Had to have tutors each grade just to graduate. Analog flight computers are available and are easy to use once you learn.

      Good luck, everyone!

      Reply
  68. HI! I’m only 5 ft in height and I was wondering if airline transport companies here in the PH accept airline pilots of that height? If so, what would those airlines be? I’ve learned that PAL puts a 5’4 height requirement on their airline pilots.

    Reply
    • Dear Vanessa,

      The height requirement is not present in the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations. Only the airlines seem to have decided to impose that requirement.

      Why? Not sure. My research into the subject seems to indicate that this height requirement is necessary so that your feet can reach the rudder pedals while still being able to see over the instrument panel. But the seats in airline cockpits are adjustable for 3 dimensions: up-down, front-back, and tilt.

      Word of advice? Apply. Worst thing the airline company can do is ignore your application. You can always apply elsewhere, even abroad. Can’t find work as an airline pilot? Fly corporate aircraft. Be an instructor. Do agricultural spraying. Work for skydiving outfits.

      When I first started flying, I found out I needed reading glasses. This made me depressed, since I believed that pilots need perfect vision since they need to see small objects in the distance. Guess what? Many pilots wear glasses. Some are retiring already. But until they reach 67 years of age, they are legally allowed to fly airliners.

      The point I am making is, never give up on your dreams.

      You must know the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, correct? They flew the Wright Flyer on December 17, 1903, and became famous for it. Did you know they started researching flight control in July 1899, years before actually testing their design? A short time in retrospect, yes, but they didn’t know that in about four years time they would have a working model, did they? They simply persevered. Good luck.

      Reply
      • Thanks for the encouraging words, Captain! I wear corrective glasses too. So that plus my short height gave me a lot of doubts before pursuing flying. But little by little I’m starting to build up the courage to pursue it. Thanks again, Cap!

        Reply
        • Dear Vanessa,

          “We who fly do so for the love of flying. We are alive in the air, with this miracle that lies in our hands and beneath our feet.” – Cecil Day Lewis (1904-1972), Anglo-Irish poet, critic & educator, Poet Laureate in 1968.

          On a personal note, as of this writing, I will be 50 years old next year, still only a Student Pilot (Airline pilots mandatory retirement age is 67), the weather, depleted funds and the lack of free time preventing me from making my minimum number of flight hours for the Private Pilot exam application, still haven’t gotten a Radio Operator’s Certificate since I only have time to take the annual regional license exam, need reading glasses to see the numbers on the trainer aircraft’s instrument panel, and need to stay in shape for the annual medical check up (for pilots above the age of 40). I have no intention of stopping, so why should you?

          p.s. “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius

          Reply
  69. Hi Capt. Enrique

    I am planning on enrolling in an aviation school (probably Omni) early next year in order for me to pursue my dream of working as a pilot in PAL or Cebu Pacific. I just want to ask which is a better route to take in order to be hired by PAL or CebPac faster as a pilot.

    A) After getting a commercial pilot license, become a flight instructor in order to accumulate flight time to meet the PAL/ cebpac flight time minimum requirements

    or

    B) After getting a commercial pilot license, undergo a first officer training program

    Thank you Captain Enrique

    Reply
    • Dear Mark,

      If I’m not mistaken, both Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific offer First Officer Cadet training programs. Often with a large financial outlay, meaning large amount of money up front.

      Or, if you prefer to go (relatively) easy on the expenses, get your Commercial Pilot License, work, beg, borrow or steal money from somewhere and get the flight hours needed to get an Airline Transport Pilot License.

      However, there is a third option, and it involves…..muuurrrrrddderrrr! (Kidding! You guys are so serious! Chill!)

      It’s really simple supply and demand: Get a CPL, get paid to fly, gain some experience, then apply with the airlines. There are so many routes being developed and so many passengers that the airlines are having a hard time coping with the demand for pilots, and the international flights are getting the most senior people, so the inter-island flights are losing pilots as everyone gets moved up the hierarchy. So the airlines are always hiring pilots.

      When I started, my fellow pilots were either into flight instruction, or actually doing some flying as whatever, and applying at the same time with the airlines. Sooner or later I hear somebody got hired even on a Commercial Pilot License with the minimum number of hours for the license, not even close to the 1,500 flight hours needed for the Airline Transport Pilot License.

      So to all you aspiring pilots out there reading these comments, there is hope! As flight becomes the preferred mode of travel, surpassing the maritime industry by a long shot, jobs will be waiting for you.

      Work hard, study hard, never give up hope, just fly the plane! Did you know airplanes will fly inverted?

      Reply
        • Dear Mark,

          I am glad to be of service.

          Oh, by the way, if you have money and most importantly, the time, I suggest taking up aerobatic training, or more specifically, emergency maneuver training. There is a course available from Camiguin Aviation called How to Recover training..

          A pilot never stops learning, and I’ve been viewing air crash investigations, and the common denominator there is pilot error. Doesn’t necessarily mean it’s correct, but if you have undergone emergency maneuver training, then you’ll be better prepared if untoward incidents do happen.

          Reply
  70. Hi capt. I inquire last sunday at one of the top school in the phil. And they offered jet orientation. Do i really need that course to qualify for commercial airline?

    Reply
    • Dear Duke,

      Learning to fly jet engine aircraft is necessary if you plan on flying for the airlines. Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific are also offering that for pilot-applicants who pass the screening process.

      Undergoing the Jet Orientation Course helps the pilot-applicant qualify for flying (but not necessarily RIGHT NOW) the airline companies’ Airbus A3** or Boeing 7** products.

      As the most junior pilot around, newbies get to fly the smaller, regional turboprops as a First Officer- lowest man on the totem pole. Entry-level position: most of the work, least of the pay. That’s where you’ll stay until you gain more experience, or some senior Captain retires, or some pilots leave the company to work for international airlines. Welcome to the real world.

      However, patience and perseverance pays off. If you can afford the course, go for it. Maybe you can apply abroad, and the pay grade is better, so it’s a faster return-on-investment, relatively speaking. If you earn dollars, you also spend dollars.

      “This is the most important aviation development since Lindbergh’s flight. In one fell swoop, we have shrunken the earth.”
      – Juan Trippe, Pan Am, on jets

      Reply
  71. Hi capt. I always dream about being a Pilot tried to enroll in PHILSCA this year but they told me my strand in K12 is not fit for the course that i am enrolling , sir my question is currently i am now studying BSIT first year if ever i graduate as an IT am i still eligible for applying or taking a flying school or its much better to shift in any Aeronautics BS Degree for me to pursue my dream to be like you sir someday? what courses if ever in the field of Aeronautics you can recommend sir

    Reply
    • Dear Jhong Prince,

      Let me demystify the aviation industry for you, and all others viewing this comment.

      Airline pilots are paid per actual flight hour. This means that if the aircraft landing gear is still sitting on the ground, you’re not getting money. So senior Captains always choose the international flight routes, which take longer to fly, thus more money. To become the senior Captain, you first have to be a First Officer, which means you’re at the entry-level position. As a FO, you get all the work with the least pay. As soon as the senior retires or leaves the company, the FO with the most experience becomes senior Captain. You first apply as a lowly FO with an airline company. The airlines prefer applicants with a lot of flying experience, i.e. the most flight hours logged prior to application with the company.

      To get those needed flight hours, you should have the needed licenses with the appropriate type and class ratings on your license. You have to have, at the very least, a Commercial Pilot License with an Instrument Rating. With this, you can begin training with an airline company to become an FO.

      Before you get your Commercial Pilot License, you’ve got to complete the requirements and pass the government exams after getting flight experience as a Private Pilot. Getting this is easy, right after you finish Flight Instruction and fly the minimum number of hours for your PPL (Private Pilot License). Naturally, since you need to learn to crawl before you can walk, you have to have gotten a Student Pilot License before starting Flight Instruction. And this is Step One for you, Jhong.

      The government requirement for a Student Pilot License applicant is: not less than 16 years old, can read, speak, and understand English, and must hold a current Class 2 Medical Certificate (mentally and physically fit, can read in close proximity and see clearly objects in the far distance, even if contact lenses or eyeglasses are needed, AND drug-free).

      PhiLSCA says you’re not eligible. Okay, find some other way. Let some other poor unfortunate soul take your place in their tuition-free educational system. Means you’ll have to pay your own way to becoming a pilot. Sure, it’s expensive to learn to fly. Why? Because flight is only for those who are willing to sacrifice, persevere, continue, follow through, keep at it, be tenacious, struggle on, carry on, my wayward son!

      If your aim is to be an airline pilot, remember, you hold the lives of your cabin crew and passengers in your hands. Aviation mechanics will screw up. The weather will try to kill your airplane. An aircraft will have critical equipment failure. And all these factors will happen at the exact moment that you are over a large body of water with no runway in sight. So ask yourself: Do I really want to die doing this? If your answer is yes, stick with paper airplanes.

      P.S. Taking a degree in Aeronautics will not give you an advantage over a nursing graduate or an IT graduate for that matter. Experience counts above all else..

      Reply
    • Dear Ericson,

      Define failing grades. If you graduated from senior high, then you must have passed!

      Still, do try to inquire from Philippine State College of Aeronautics regarding their requirements regarding your particular case. If your grades aren’t good enough for PhilSCA, then you have no choice but to enroll somewhere else.

      But to clarify, learning to fly does not require going to a university. If you have the time and the money, you can get your Airline Transport Pilot License within a few months (depending on the weather) from any accredited flight school. After which, you apply with the airlines. Doesn’t guarantee you’ll get a job, but it can be done.

      One of the documentary requirements for the airlines is applicants hold a degree from any four-year course. But I am not certain if this is a hard rule, since experience is very important and if you have the experience and can demonstrate the necessary skill. Simply put, just try and don’t give up!

      “There’s simply no substitute for experience in terms of aviation safety.” – Chesley Sullenberger

      Reply
      • Hello. Capt. Enrique. I’m planning to enroll in a flight school here in the Philippines (probably omni).. I just want to ask which is a better route to take in order to be hired by a major airline such ah PAL or Cebu Pacific faster… is it A) be a flight instructor after getting CPL and accumulate those flight hours required by the airline companies or B) undergo a First Officer Training. Thank you Captain.

        Reply
        • Dear Mark,

          Getting a CPL is step one to applying with either PAL or CebPac. Additional training will be required by either company for you to be able to fly jet aircraft. This is when they’ll train you, if they accept you as a FO.

          Some pilots become Flight Instructors just to make the flight hours, but for me, that is not fair to the students. If you want to fly for the airlines, that should be your goal, and do everything to reach that goal. If you want to share your experiences, become an instructor. There are no shortcuts, unfortunately.

          Reply
  72. Hi Captain! Is there any flight school within Luzon/NCR that offers scholarship or sponsorship for the fees during your study in a flight school up until you have your dream job like for example, to be a commercial pilot? I’m an honor student and i’m thinking if i could use my grades to lessen the fees my family have to pay for my flight school after i graduate in Senior High school in 2020.

    Reply
    • Dear Daniel,

      Philippine School of Aeronautics! Try scrolling down among the comments and look for Ba Tak An’s comments (August 9, 2018) regarding Philsca.

      Your being an honor student is an advantage in getting free flight education in that government-run school. I would advise getting emergency maneuvers training after finishing with Philsca.

      You might have to search for a school that offers this, in the Philippines, but as an aviator, safety is the primary concern. Try to die as an old person in bed, not a young person at the controls of an airplane.

      Reply
    • Dear Joshua,

      As I understand it, the airline companies have it as a document requirement, in that one of the requirements for First Officer applicants is holding a degree in ANY four-year course.

      However, analyzing the requirement (degree in ANY), it seems to be more geared towards the age of the applicant more than anything else. Most First Officer applicants seem to be in the 25 year old range, But no matter what, experience still counts. You should focus more on getting emergency maneuvers training than worrying about your chosen course. It will help save your life someday.

      Reply
  73. Hi, I am a STEM Grade 11 student, I was wondering captain if there is a need for me to have a college degree to become a pilot. I was hoping that after I graduated from Senior high I could then proceed to take the Private Pilot course.

    Hoping you would reply.

    Thank you and God bless.

    Reply
    • Dear Kevin,

      There is no need for you to have a college degree to become a pilot. If your schedule, your mind, your body and your finances can handle it, you can take the Private Pilot course while you are a Grade 11 student.

      Getting a private pilot’s license is, for all intents and purposes, similar to getting a private driver’s license. You apply for it, get a medical clearance, pass the government exams, then get your license.

      The main difference is that ALL pilots are professionals. We all underwent Ground School Instruction and received Medical Certificates clearing us to fly aircraft, taken exams to allow us to receive our Student Pilot’s License prior to undergoing Flight School Training, which involves actual flight.

      If you wish to pursue an Airline Transport Pilot’s License, and apply with the major airlines as a First Officer, then a college degree is a documentary requirement.

      Being a pilot doesn’t make you cool. But if you’re cool, you’re probably a pilot.

      Reply
        • Dear Bryan,

          Everybody wants to be cool. Only a few are able to pull it off. They worked very hard and never gave up. They proved themselves worthy to the most critical taskmaster: their own selves. Are you up to the challenge?

          Reply
  74. Capt. Im about to take a flight course ACPT which said can make me qualified as an first officer on a a320 plane. Also it only has 200 hours flight time. Can you help me out. Can i guarantee a job on airlines after this course?

    Reply
    • Dear Michael Angelo,

      I don’t know what ACPT means, but from your description, you might be talking about the Multi-crew Pilot License, which requires less than 1,500 hours flight time. Having an MPL allows you to fly an airplane which requires two pilots in the cockpit.

      The Airbus A320 is a very popular model of passenger/cargo aircraft, and since the airlines are opening up more flights and flight routes, plus airline captains are retiring every year, there’s a very good chance you can quickly find a job. But don’t limit your application to the airlines. Corporate jets also require two pilots, and cargo companies’ airplanes also require two pilots. Or you can do agricultural flying, spraying fields with fertilizer or pesticides. There’s always a job waiting for qualified applicants who are willing to work hard. Good luck, Mike!

      Reply
  75. Hello Capt. Enrique;

    I was curious about study now pay later program, is it you will pay your debt after you graduated the program? or it is a partnership with airlines company?

    Your article is very informative i like it so much, since i was a kid a always want to be a pilot. Even now a days i always have this dream, Thanks a lot hope to hear you soon.

    Reply
    • Dear Noel,

      Yes. Next question?

      Just kidding. Some flight schools are in partnership with local banks where the student pilot can get a loan under the Study Now, Pay Later Student Loan Program. And Cebu Pacific has their Cadet Pilot program, where the airline finances your flight training and after gaining employment with the airline, a salary deduction (over a maximum period of 10 years) is done to pay your incurred training costs.

      Ba tak An says that the Philippine State College of Aeronautics offer no-tuition fee training, being a government educational institution, with the caveat that as a scholar, high grades MUST be maintained.

      “Never quit. Never give up. Fly it to the end.” – Charles Aaron, call sign “Malibu”

      Reply
  76. Hi Captain,

    How long would it take for a college graduate to become a licensed pilot? Are there flying schools that offers student loans? I really want to become like you sir.

    Reply
    • Dear Rain,

      A college graduate can become a licensed pilot as soon as he receives his Private Pilot License after passing (70% minimum for 10 subjects) the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines licensing exams, passing the National Telecommunications Commission’s Restricted Radio Operator’s License-Aircraft licensing exam, and passing the English Language Proficiency exam, since all pilots must be able to speak and understand English at a high-level of proficiency, for safety and understanding in radio communication.

      Learning to fly procedure:
      Ground School – On average, two hours of instruction each time. Subjects are intensive and the mind can only absorb and comprehend so much information until meltdown. But it can be done in about one to two months. Exams have to be passed for each subject before moving to the next topic of instruction.

      Flight School – Needs a Medical Certificate. Pilots have to have good eyesight, good health, psychologically stable, and no criminal record. The Civil Aviation Authority’s Aviation Medical Examiner will do an exam and issue a Medical Certificate Class 2 or Class 1. When you receive your Student Pilot’s License and Class 2 Medical Certificate, you begin flying lessons and accumulate the needed flight instruction and hours to proceed to the next license, the Private Pilot License.

      Some flight schools do offer fly now, pay later programs. Use your favorite search engine or go to Aviationfly.com and select the filters that fit your needs.

      “Flying is more than a sport and more than a job; flying is pure passion and desire, which fill a lifetime.” – Adolph Joseph Ferdinand Galland

      Reply
  77. Hi! I am planning to take up computer science for college but it has always been my dream to become a pilot. Any suggestions on what im supposed to do? Im kinda lost om what the steps i should take after i graduate. Or should i just enroll directly to philsca?

    Reply
    • Dear Chlarizza,

      First step is to find a school near your residence. Learning to fly can be done in a few weeks to a few years.

      Once you’ve located a Civil Aviation Authority accredited school, inquire as to the cost and schedule of the Private Pilot License Course. Most schools offer classroom-style instruction, and may also offer special, according-to-the-student’s-availability instruction, although a bit more expensive. This works for those who are already working and/or are taking up a four-year course to meet the requirements for Airline Transport Pilot Licensing.

      Once you’ve contacted a school, contact a second school, and then compare. What will really consume your money is flight hours, but I think it all balances out: Some schools offer cheaper course fees but higher airplane rental costs, while other charge slightly less for flight hours but course instruction is expensive.

      Some schools offer fly now, pay later; others offer scholarships; still others require large cash outlay, but the course fee covers everything from initial enrollment to achieving a Commercial or Airline Transport Pilot’s License. Explore your choices.

      “Aviation is proof that given the will, we have the capacity to achieve the impossible.” – Edward Vernon Rickenbacker

      Reply
  78. Hi Sir! At first, I really didn’t know what I want to become, but I want is that it has something to do with an aeroplane and later on i realized I want to become a pilot. I am not REALLY good in math as I neglected my studies way back in hs and I’m not also good in drawing that’s why I didn’t pursue Aeronautical Engineering in my current school because i was preceded by my fear of failing grades because the tuition fee is kinda expensive, I don’t want to disappoint my parents. So, I took up BS Tourism, I can’t feel the happiness and contentment in my heart while I am in BsTourism and now I’m having a regret i didn’t push aeronautics. I have decided to shift in aero on 2nd semester. But I’m still worried and frightened. But as I read your comments and advices, I got inspired and motivated and I know I can do this! There is still room for learning, there is our God to guide me and bless me with knowledge and wisdom, my family and friends to give me strength. Thank you, you are an inspiration. Goodluck Sir to your journey! God Bless you ??

    Reply
    • Dear Joanie,

      I’m not good at mathematics either, which is one of the reasons why I became a dentist: No math!

      And when you start flying, there will be times when you will have to trust in God. Especially when the engine stops running before you’ve landed. 😉

      “The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do. You can act to change and control your life; and the procedure, the process is its own reward.” – Amelia Earhart

      Reply
    • Dear Alyannah,

      No height requirements at all. In fact, being shorter is actually an advantage because airplane cockpits can become very cramped, and walking under a high-wing airplane like a Cessna means you’ll hit your head on the wing and climbing into a low-wing aircraft like a Piper means you’ll have to bend your knees deep just to squeeze your legs in.

      Military pilots have height and weight maximum requirements, though. Shorter and lighter is ideal.

      Reply
  79. Hi.
    I am planning to take BS in aviation major in flying and I just want to ask if I would have the PPL and CPL automatically after I graduated?

    Reply
    • Dear Chris,

      No. Graduating as a Bachelor of Science in Aviation, Major in Flying only means you now have the requisite skills (and probably necessary flight hours) to APPLY for the Private Pilot License and later, Commercial Pilot License. You still have to take the exams for both licenses AND pass the medical minimums for the certificate needed for each license.

      It’s sort of like being a dentist. I studied it for 6 years, graduated as a Doctor of Dental Medicine and had to take the Professional Regulation Commission exams before I became legally allowed to practice dentistry.

      Here is a super-simplified flowchart to becoming a pilot:

      1. Graduate from high school at around 16 years of age.
      2. Enroll in a flight school for learning how to fly.
      3. Apply for a Student Pilot License and pass the medical exam given by the Flight Surgeon.
      4. Gain flying hours.
      5. Pass the written exam for Radio Operator Certificate – Aircraft.
      6. Pass the English Language Proficiency exam.
      7. Pass the written and practical exam for a Private Pilot License.

      And for a Commercial Pilot License,
      8. Enroll in an Instrument Rating course.
      9. Enroll in a Multi-Engine Rating course.
      10. Gain flying hours.
      11. Pass the medical requirements for the Class 1 medical certificate.
      12. Pass the written and practical exam for a Commercial Pilot License.

      For the Airline Transport Pilot License:
      13. Pass the medical requirements for the Class 1 medical certificate.
      14. Gain flying hours.
      15. Pass the written and practical exam for an Airline Transport Pilot License.

      In essence, Chris, when you graduate, you are a Student Pilot ready for upgrading your license.

      Reply
      • Thank you capt.

        In other words, taking up BSAF is such a waste of time and money?! If I can go directly into a flight school and it only take months.

        So the only advantage of taking that course is….
        “A Bachelors Degree would be more impressive to airline companies and employers”?

        Reply
        • Dear Chris,

          Taking up BS Aviation – Flying is not necessarily a waste of time and money. If the school offers it as a four-year course, then you’re golden!

          A four-year bachelor’s degree is not “impressive” to the airlines. It’s one of the documentary requirements.

          Reply
  80. Hello po. I really want to be a pilot but my main concern is my eye grade, it already reached 400. Is it really impossible to be a commercial pilot already? 🙁 Thank you.

    Reply
    • Dear Nerea,

      Did anybody tell you that it is impossible to become a commercial pilot if your eyesight is of that grade? If your answer is yes, was it an Aviation Medical Examiner who said so?

      Pilots are allowed to wear corrective lenses while flying. As pilots age, we have difficulty reading charts and maps and instrument panels. So we have to wear eyeglasses. And are required by law to carry a spare set of eyeglasses in the cockpit.

      So if you can see clearly with eyeglasses, or can get eye surgery done, continue pursuing the dream to be a pilot. You would need a Medical Certificate to fly anyway, so your eyesight will be tested by the Flight Surgeon anyway, and that is the final authority who will determine if you get to fly an actual airplane or just a paper airplane.

      Possibility and impossibility are only states of mind. If you can dream it, you can achieve it!

      Reply
  81. Hi Captain,

    I am a College Graduate but had some difficulties in study during my 1st college years (you know, not focused om schooling yet). Would it reflect on my application on Flying School? And which school would you recommend?. I found Omni Avation and Alpha Aviation offering Ab-initio Program, what are your thoughts on this? I know you have a busy schedule and I want to thank you for making time to respond on this inquiry.

    Reply
    • Dear DJ,

      If you are concerned about your previous difficulties regarding your early college life, think about this: You graduated! If it was a major thing, I don’t think the school would have let you attend the graduation ceremony. It shouldn’t matter on your application to a flying school. Don’t include it, but if they ask, answer honestly. Usually they won’t care to ask. And if you tell them they still won’t care. It’s not important, since it had nothing to do with them nor flying.

      I would recommend any school near where you live (because the weather will prevent you from flying everyday and staying in the hangar the whole day gets boring), offers financing (unless you have money growing out of the ground), and most importantly, is accredited by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

      The ab Initio pilot training program means the student is trained from having little or no knowledge about aviation to being able to fly either the Airbus or Boeing aircraft upon graduation. You can then apply as an entry-level pilot for any airliner who uses Airbus or Boeing planes for cargo and/or passenger transport.

      My passion is flying, and my profession is dentistry. I always have time for my passion.

      “To most people the sky is the limit. To those who love aviation, the sky is home.”

      Reply
  82. Hi Capt,

    I am planning to switch my career I am currently working as an IT and I would like to know if it is possible to be student Pilot while I am working as a regular employee? This is in order for me to finance the tuition and license fees. And is their any Aviation School that accept fly now pay later program?

    Thank you,

    Reply
    • Dear Julius,

      As of this writing, I am a 49 year old dentist and I learned flying whenever I had time to attend Ground School. I attend Flight School, or in effect, fly the airplane on Sundays and holidays.

      Having a source of funds, either inherited, financed or earned, is always a good idea when learning to fly since it is expensive. From initial enrollment to purchasing the books and equipment needed and paying for flight time, then upgrading your license by taking further course instruction and additional flight time requirements, the cost builds up. But you can start earning as a pilot when you get a Commercial Pilot License.

      Life is simple. Eat, sleep, fly.

      Reply
    • Hello Capt. Enrique,

      I wasn’t able to finish college, as I really needed to start working (I accomplished up to 2nd year as an engineering student). Years have passed; I am now 31 with a family of my own and was able to grow in my career. With my current professional standing, I believe I can support pilot training with help from family and friends. This is my dream ever since I was young.

      The goal is to become an airline pilot, but my concern is this: will it eventually become impossible for me to work for an airline because I didn’t get to finish my 4-year college course? Is the only option to go back to school first before I do my pilot training? I have tried to do it once when I was in mid-20s, and I have passed CAAP’s medical exam. I got started with ground school, but as hard as I’ve tried back then, my career wasn’t rewarding enough to support training all the way to become a private pilot. What I did then was to focus on my work for promotions and higher pay.

      Now that I have a real shot to fund pilot training, I am concerned if I should postpone it again and just go get a degree first. With a family to support, I cannot go to school full-time. This means it will take multiple years again to finish my course, and I may need to start as a freshman again because of curriculum changes.

      Will I still have a chance to work for an airline if I become a cargo or corporate pilot and accrue enough experience and flight time, get an airline transport license, and apply? I have done extensive research, and even for pilots in other countries, the general consensus seems to be that flying experience counts the most. But then again, if I go straight to training, I’m afraid that maybe airline companies will not take me in later on because I’m not a degree holder, even if I have an ATP license and sufficient flight hours.

      Your input about this situation would be greatly appreciated, Captain. Apologies for the lengthy post. I just needed to provide context. Thanks and have a great day.

      Reply
  83. Hi

    I’ve pretty much got the gist of the flight training required to be a pilot, but I’ve been wondering, after flight school what’s next?

    Reply
    • Dear Dave,

      After making the minimum number of flight hours, you begin the process of getting your Pilot License.

      For Private Pilot License, get 40 hours, then take the National Telecommunication Commission exam for Radio Operator Certificate – Aircraft, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines exams for these subjects: Air Law, Aircraft General Knowledge, Meteorology, Flight Planning and Performance, Navigation, Principles of Flight, Radiotelephony, Equipment Qualification Course, Human Performance, and Operation Procedure. The English Language Proficiency exam is also taken at the CAAP head office.

      Applicants for PPL are allowed to take a maximum of two to three subjects each time. And there is no rush to take the exams: You can take one exam a week if you so wish. And don’t worry, you’ll pass the exams.

      “It is possible to fly without motors, but not without knowledge and skill.” – Wilbur Wright

      Reply
  84. should i go to omni aviation or wcc in binalonan?

    what do you think is the cheapest and fastest way to gain flying hours? should i buy an aircraft and do any job or be a flight instructor?

    Reply
    • Dear Janssen,

      Omni Aviation in Clark and WCC Aviation in Binalonan are both currently accredited with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, so either one is good. Find the flight school that offers better weather conditions.

      The fastest way to gain flying hours is to buy an aircraft and just fly around when the weather is clear. The cheapest way does not exist. (Laughter is heard from everyone who has started learning to fly.)

      As a flight instructor, you’ll get paid to instruct others on the skill of safe aircraft manipulation. Of course, you’ll need to get a Flight Instructor License. To get this, you’ll also need to get a Commercial Pilot License. To get that, one begins with a Private Pilot License. Which comes after receiving Ground Instruction and Flight Instruction with a Student Pilot License. From SPL to FI, the steps are similar and expensive due to course costs. Each step has corresponding ground lessons and flight requirements.

      Having the capacity to buy an airplane (You’d be surprised at how inexpensive second-hand planes can be! But the hangar rental and maintenance costs are prohibitive.) does not guarantee that you’ll be hired by the airlines. Experience counts a lot. Flying many hours in a single-engine airplane only means that you’ve accumulated the license requirement, but not necessarily the experience required.

      To fly for the airlines, even with 250 hours, means that you’ll start off as copilot for the turboprop island-hopping aircraft. As older pilots retire and others replace them, you’ll move up the hierarchy until eventually, you’ll be flying as Captain for international flights on the Airbus or Boeing! The Holy Grail for airline pilots!

      And you’ll look back to the days you started flying with single-engine two-seater planes and wish you were doing that again. Most likely you’d have sold off your airplane because you can no longer afford to keep it, or you no longer have time to fly it.

      In essence, just learn to fly and enjoy the trip working towards becoming an airline pilot. All in good time.

      Reply
    • Dear Janssen,

      Both Omni Aviation and WCC Aviation are accredited by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, so either school is good.

      The fastest way to gain flying hours is to buy an aircraft (A second-hand single-engine two-seater airplane is not as expensive as you think, although you have to factor in hangar, registration and maintenance fees) and fly as often as the weather is clear.

      I have a friend who now flies internationally for Cebu Pacific and he started flying in high school, eventually bought his own Cessna 182, became a Flight Instructor and was encouraged to apply for Cebu Pac. He sold off his airplane because he no longer had a chance to fly it again and hangar parking costs became expensive.

      Nothing is cheap in learning to fly. But then again, the view from up there is priceless.

      Reply
  85. Hi, im a SH student and i want to know if the fee for becoming a pilot is per sem and how much it will cost if it’s per sem?
    Also the flight training fee, Will it be per hour?

    Reply
    • Dear Normanjirus,

      I’ll comment based on my experience only, so here goes.

      Ground School – 60,000 pesos. Books, pilot logbook, flight computer, navigational plotter, flight bag (came with the books) – 30k. Aviation headset (cheap imitation that clamps the head, has a lot of static, wire coating fell apart after a few months) – 5,000. World Aeronautical Charts (not really needed, but nice to have for navigational plotting from home) – 3,000 for the 3 regions set.

      Flight hours cost per hour depends on aircraft type whether 2-seater (8,500 pesos per hour) or 4-seater (12,500 per hour). This includes fuel and flight instructor fee, but the hour begins the moment the propeller starts turning until you pull the mixture control to stop the propeller’s rotation.

      To get a Private Pilot License you need a minimum of 40 hours.

      I heard that Boeing requires 5 million pesos tuition fee, but you’d graduate as a Boeing pilot ready to apply for the airlines. Do more research, and ask around. Pilots and student pilots just love talking about their experiences!

      Reply
  86. hi. im a senior high school graduate and im aiming to be a airline pilot.. i was planning to get a 2 year aircraft maintenance course in order to save money to pursue my dream.. so can you tell me what things should i do?.. FROM aircraft maintenance to becoming an airline pilot..

    Reply
    • Dear Prince Britain,

      It is not unheard of to pursue a flying career by first learning how to fix the planes you’ll be flying later on. You’ll just be prolonging the process.

      Learning to fly is expensive. You start with Ground Lessons, and you can buy or borrow books, get a Flight Computer and also a Plotter, then when you start Flight Lessons, you’d need an aviation headset and Pilot’s Logbook. Finish your minimum number of flight hours in a trainer aircraft, take the exam to get your Private Pilot License, English Language Proficiency Certificate and National Telecommunication Commission License for Radio Operator-Aircraft. Then more lessons for Commercial Pilot License, Instrument Rating, Multiple-Engine Rating, then accomplish the minimum required flight hours, then exams again for Airline Transport Pilot License.

      On top of this, when you increase ratings and type of airplane you have learned to fly, you pay again to have it recorded on your license. And passing the medical exams for your Medical Certificate which is good for two years, until you reach age 40 when it is renewed every year thereafter, assuming you pass the medical.

      A requirement for pilots applying for the major airlines is holding a degree in any 4-year course. If you wish to add on a 2-year aviation mechanic’s course to your educational attainment, it’s fine. Good things take time to happen or mature, like wine and cheese. I’ve heard some schools will sponsor your learning for free if you work for them as a mechanic for a period of time, Explore this option.

      Should you wish to forgo the aviation mechanic’s course, it’s still fine. Save your money from your allowance, work a summer job, avoid eating out or going to the movies, buying expensive stuff, etc. Do whatever you can to make and save money for flight hours. You won’t become an airline pilot instantly. It takes time, dedication, funds and hard work. Even if you’ve accomplished everything, including getting an Airline Transport Pilot License, there is no guarantee you’ll be hired by the first airline company you applied with. Just like any other job-seeker, there are others vying for the position, others who graduated ahead of you, or have better credentials, or more experience. But don’t worry! You will find a place for yourself. Remember, you worked hard to reach the level you’ve attained, so a little more hard work won’t kill you.

      Live the dream!

      Reply
  87. Do we really need 1500 hours to join an airline in the philippines? Because there are alot of filipino pilots i saw in social media that have flying experience below 1500 hours. Some became first officer in airasia/cebupac while second officer in PR.

    Reply
    • Dear William,

      Not necessary. Logging 1,500 flight hours means you are now eligible to get an Airline Transport Pilot License, which means you are now in command of the aircraft you’re flying, as the Captain. Those with fewer hours can get a Multi-Crew Pilot License, or essentially a Commercial Pilot License with an additional rating to fly aircraft which require more than one person at the flight controls.

      These pilots are often hired by the major airlines as First Officers or the one who flies the plane and does all the work while the Captain sits back and relaxes like a passenger. 🙂

      Reply
  88. For anyone commenting here on different alternatives on becoming a pilot, which school is fit for pursuing pilot, what or how to become a pilot if financially short. Here is what I think I can give to you.

    This is not to advertise this school but to help my fellow aviators who wish to become a Pilot as I know what you are feeling in terms of becoming what you wanted for your entire life, to become a Pilot.

    PhilSCA, located in Pasay City, is a school that makes pilot-graduate students with private and commercial pilot licenses that enable fresh graduates to have a direct opportunities on piloting an aircraft and direct opportunities of becoming hired by an airline companies.

    You have got no expenses throughout your journey from first year, as a student, to 4th year as a student pilot. Schooling is free due to the free-tuition implemented by our current govnmt that just lately this year. Now, no one becomes a pilot until he undergo flight training. I am happy to announce that this flight training which costs more than 2 million, is also made free. Again, this was due to the free tuition that was made by our own government. Now everyone can be a pilot if he/she is really determined.

    Now, this school dont offer free study and coverage of flight training as much easy as we think. To avail this FREE tuition and flight training, everyone must garnered a GWA or general weighted average, of atleast 90. With no failing grades on any subjects. This is for just entrance exam, if you are qualified or in the required GWA, they will schedule you for a test and must have it passed to fully become their student. The journey of achieving FREE doesnt end here, the Flight training which will happen at the 3rd year level, will only be free if you maintained your grades to the required grade given by the school institution. Meaning to say, you still have to maintain a good grade from 1st year of being student to 3rd year before you take your flight training. And if ever you maintained your grade good, then you are eligible to graduate BS in Air Transportation Major in Flying with no expense.

    Now, you can see that your dream of becoming a Pilot is not as far as you think it will go. It is only in the grasp of your hand and the will of becoming a Pilot. Also pray and ask for guidance.
    Im a student of PhilSCA enrolled in BS in Air Transportation. Wish me Luck as much as I wish to all my colleagues in aviation!.
    God Bless

    Reply
    • Also I’d like to commend what Capt. Enrique is doing here. Sir, your unending support for the questions of people here is really a big help for them and for me as I continue to learn more about aviation. Continue inspiring and aspire many people. I’d also like to be taught by you in some aviation quests. Looking forward captain!

      Reply
      • Dear Ba tak An,

        Thank you for expressing the desire to be taught by me. I am delighted that you find me inspiring. I do hope to live up to your expectations, though I am simply an individual who never gave up the wish to take to the skies. As of this writing, I am 49 years old, and when my schedule allows, I intend to take the examinations for my Private Pilot License.

        As an aviator, I have learned that there are many aspects of flying that are unknown or uncommon to most people, and as knowledge is power and one should never stop learning, my hope is to educate as many aspiring pilots as I can. Ask as many questions as you wish, as often as possible (even if those same questions were already answered many comments down), and I’ll answer according to the best.of my knowledge, experience and research.

        “A true aviator really sees aviation as a whole, constantly improving but while still being humble, and realizing you can never know everything there is to know.” – Patty Wagstaff

        Reply
    • Many thanks to Ba tak An for this comment! This helps to clarify the conditions necessary for availing free flight training. In essence, the student is a scholar who has to maintain high grades and work hard at it. Remember, nothing’s free in this world, and payment is done in one way or another.

      Good luck, Ba tak An! Hope to see you in the skies soon! May you always encounter calm winds and clear weather.

      Reply
    • Dear Tops,

      The best school for flying is the one closest to your home. I am not making a snide remark here, mind you. As long as the flight school is accredited by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, it’s fine. What I meant by the school being close to your home is the weather can change quickly here in the islands.

      Let’s say you chose a school that is on another island or about four hours drive from your home. You’ve done Ground School and are now starting Flight School. You see the weather is blue skies, no clouds, moderately warm, no winds. You drive/take a ferry to the island, only to discover that by the time you get to the airport, the weather has become overcast, with gusting winds, and rain on the way. Ergo, flight training cancelled.

      if you have no other choice, I suggest renting a room near the airport. Fly as often as you can, depending on the weather and your funds, and get your Commercial Pilot License as quickly as possible so you can start looking for a pilot job and start earning back little by little every centavo you spent learning to live your passion for flying.

      As with any job anywhere in the world, you start with low pay and long hours, but hard work pays off eventually. Just keep at it and enjoy flying!

      Reply
    • If you are finding a school which has no tuition fee i’d prefer you to go to PhilSCA. This government school do not impose a tuition fee nor flying fee for your flight training if you ever decided to become a pilot. On the other hand, there’s Airlink Aviation School located at the same place as PhilSCA in Pasay. This school has a fare amount of tuition fee of its own.
      But as anyone wants, we all want to study for free. Try PhilSCA. Study for free. Flight training for free!

      Reply
    • Hi Julie, you can go for pilot training! There is a big push by the airline industry to get more female pilots into aviation (right now only 5% of pilots worldwide are woman)

      Reply
    • Dear Julie,

      Michael is right. The airline industry is no longer male-dominated. Women can be baggage handlers, ticketing agents, aviation mechanics, airport managers, air traffic management officers, flight surgeons, aviation security personnel, and pilots. The world’s Air Forces even have female military pilots!

      Never let gender be a hindrance to achieving your dreams, as long as it is physically possible. Live your dreams!

      Reply
  89. Good eve! Hi, I am a 16 year old Grade 10 student who is dreaming of becoming a pilot one day. I am planning to take STEM in PATTS next year. I have problems though after SHS. My parents told me that we may not be able to afford the fees for me to become a pilot. That is why I am planning to take aircraft maintenance then be a pilot later on. Is this a good path for me who has financial problems ? Can you suggest more ideas ?

    I saw that I can try the PAF Flight School but it states there that I need to undergo military training and I wont be able to leave after a x amount of years. Plus I don’t have natural 20/20 vision. I am wearing corrective glasses which has a grade of 300 on both eyes. I am not color blind though. I don’t even know if my dream is possible despite of my eye problems. I have no problems seeing with glasses or contact lenses on though. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Dear Lance,

      The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines certifies the Philippine Air Transport and Training Services as an Aircraft Maintenance school. If you wish to become an airline pilot, you’ll have to take their Four-Year Aeronautical Engineering Course to qualify. You must remember, though, that this has nothing to do with being an airline pilot. Designing aircraft or fixing aircraft is not the same thing as flying that aircraft.

      The subjects may be similar, but at some point they diverge from the path you wish to take: becoming a pilot. If you will be satisfied with a Commercial Pilot’s License, then there is no need to have graduated from a four-year course. If you are aiming for the Holy Grail of Pilots, the Airline Transport Pilot’s License, then it is a requirement.

      Financial difficulties? Work in a fast-food chain during summer and save money. Borrow from rich relatives (if any). Loan from a bank. Sell a kidney (Just kidding! Smile!). Find a way to pay for your all-important (and expensive) flight hours. Even if it takes years before you can finally fly solo.

      Philippine Air Force Flight School is no longer feasible because before becoming a pilot you have to become an officer first.

      Corrective lenses are allowed by the Flight Surgeon, since the vision requirement is the ability to distinguish colors. In a glass cockpit-equipped aircraft, if you cannot distinguish one color from another, there will be trouble.

      Possibility and impossibility are only states of mind.

      Reply
      • Dear Niclaus,

        According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines the applicant for a student pilot authorization shall be not less than 16 years old.

        As long as you have the money (Most important!) Flight hours can be expensive. But remember, you don’t have to finish all your flight training tomorrow. Or next week. Or next month…. Get the point?

        Don’t be in a hurry to be a pilot. Enjoy your flying, take your time, make money while waiting for the weather to clear. Piloting jobs will always be here. Old pilots will retire, new pilots take their place, and even if you don’t want to work for the airlines, there are other piloting jobs available. Or, as a private pilot, you can take your family on scenic flights over the islands! Enjoy!

        Reply
  90. Good day sir! Are commercial pilots in demand now compared to other jobs? what is the ratio? Just asking because my son wanted to become a pilot. He is still in his Grade 12. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Dear Ferdinand,

      To differentiate, airline pilots fly for an airline company transporting passengers and cargo from one place to another, while commercial pilots are involved in flying planes for charter/air taxi, aerial photography, sightseeing tours, rescue operations, firefighting (although not in the Philippines), geographical mapping, crop dusting, etc. Everyone is so focused on the airline job and ignoring the less(?) glamorous job of commercial flying. As I understand it, agricultural piloting jobs offer about 50,000 pesos monthly for about 2 to 4 hours work each morning. Salary rates vary per company and position, of course, but that is the general rate.

      Encourage your son to pursue that dream. There is always room for the good ones.

      Reply
      • Hi Capt.,

        I am Eman I am a nurse, I always wanted to become an airline pilot. I have no idea about the aviation industry. My question is, should I still enrol in a 4-year aviation related courses or I will only get some units in aviation subjects then Ill proceed to completion of 250 hours flying.

        Thanks.

        Reply
        • Dear Eman,

          The qualifications for airline pilots include graduating from ANY four-year course, so you’re already good. Next step for you is finding an accredited flight school close to your location. Enroll as a student pilot, finish Ground School, then proceed to Flight School then start learning everything you need to know to safely transport passengers and cargo from point A to point B. Your salary would help you pay for your flight hours, which can be expensive, depending on the type of plane you will learn to fly with.

          It’s never too late to live your dreams!

          Reply
    • Dear Keane Aldrich,

      I would like to suggest, but I have no idea where you are located, so I’ll do the next best thing: Guide you through the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines website.

      Search for the CAAP website on your favorite search engine, then click on the site. Select the “Citizen’s Charter” tab, then the “Flight Standards Inspectorate Service” from the drop down list, then move to the right and select “Approved Training Organizations Certification and Inspection Division” which will open to a new page. Locate the tab that shows a small silhouette of an airline and “RPAS, ATO and AOC Holders List.”

      When you click that, you’ll find the “List of Flying and Maintenance Schools as of July 2018” highlighted and download that as a PDF. From that list, choose the school closest to your location, and call them up. Ask as many questions as you can think of, and see if they’re willing to entertain you properly. If they’re professional with their answers, then you know you’ll be happy going there.

      “When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the Earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.” – misattributed to Leonardo da Vinci. Cool as it sounds, Leo never experienced flight, ergo he can’t have said that quote.

      Reply
  91. Hello everyone!

    Just wanted to clarify a point about flight simulator games or flight training simulator programs.

    If you want to experience even a small amount of the joy of flying but have neither the desire nor the funds to actually become a pilot, then go for it! Flight sims are fun!

    However, if you wish to be a pilot, then I STRONGLY DISCOURAGE using flight sim programs until you have started flying with an instructor. Current video games, no matter how realistic, will never be able to accurately portray real life. Flight sims are good as an added training device to gauge your abilities in a life-threatening situation while being done in a safe environment. But without a qualified instructor present, you might pick up some bad habits like focusing on the flight instruments instead of looking outside the airplane to reference what the aircraft is doing. It’s similar to driving while looking at your speedometer, mileage counter, temperature gauge and fuel gauge only!

    True, when getting an Instrument Rating on your pilot license you’re supposed to be staring at your instruments the whole time since it replicates a flying situation wherein you have no visual reference to the horizon, but you would have learned how to fly the airplane visually already, and gotten a feel for the aircraft and how it moves as you manipulate the controls. Your muscle memory has been ingrained so if it “feels” wrong, you’d know. But flying on a computer doesn’t have the “feel” so you’d be more focused on flying strictly “by the numbers” based on your instrument readings. And this is a bad habit to get into.

    My flight instructors repeatedly tell me: “Look outside, glance inside. You’re still learning to fly VFR (Visual Flight Rules), so look at the horizon and around you for other airplanes. Fly the airplane, then verify with your instruments if your control inputs are correct.”

    So get inside an actual airplane, fly while listening to your instructor, then practice what you learned on the flight sim at home. Remember, correct practice makes perfect!

    May all your flights be in calm weather and clear skies!

    Reply
  92. In addition to my earlier comment, sir I am planning to study in PHILSCA after I finish my SHS program. I am not yet sure If I will take Air Transportation or Aircraft Maintanance. If I choose Aircraft Maintainance is it still possible to take the student’s pilot examination or will I just simply pick the Air Transportation course? Thank you sir and have a good day.

    Reply
    • Dear Michael,

      You have to make sure that the Air Transportation course includes a private pilot training component. As far as I know, the Aircraft Maintenance course graduates can become aircraft mechanics, specialists in either powerplant or airframe, aviation safety inspectors or accident investigators. But you can still learn to fly airplanes on your own time. Learning to fly is similar to learning to drive: You can learn piloting an aircraft while still going to high school.

      Reply
  93. Good day sir! I was wondering if I will be able to pass the medical examination because my vision is not that good. Yes I can see for about 20 ft or more but If I close my right eye it’s just 10 ft or less. Will this have an impact in my medical examination? If so, are there any other ways to pass or just wearing glasses will do?

    Reply
    • Dear Michael,

      Wearing glasses will do. What is more important is the ability to differentiate colors, because if your aircraft has digital flight instrument displays, and you have difficulty distinguishing colors, you would be unable to read the screen. It is for this reason that aviation sunglasses have to be non-polarized, because polarized sunglasses will block some colors on the digital instrument panel.

      Reply
  94. Good day! I dream about being an airline pilot? How many flight hours should I gain before applying as a junior pilot?

    Reply
    • Dear Faye,

      The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines requires airline transport pilots to have a minimum of 1,500 flight hours. Although I know that some airline companies accept pilots who have less flight hours (around 250 hours), essentially on-the-job training with an experienced pilot.

      Reply
    • Dear Kolleen,

      You cannot realize just how complicated your simple-sounding question is, but I take it as a challenge! 🙂

      To become a student pilot, you have to have taken and passed the subjects regarding flight (such as Aerodynamics, Weather Briefing, Parts of an Airplane, and so on and so forth), gotten a Medical Certificate for Pilots and a Student Pilot License. From there, you fly with an instructor until he feels you are capable of flying the airplane all by yourself and he lets you solo. After you take off, fly once around the airport and land safely on the runway, consider yourself a pilot! And then your graduation consists of a pail of water dumped on your head! Yay!

      Depending on your budget, time constraints and the weather, you can finish Ground School and Flight School in as short as a month!

      A private pilot needs at least 40 hours flight time, a commercial pilot needs 200 hours, and airline transport pilots need 1,500 minimum flight hours. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  95. hello,

    i am currently a grade 12 student and i want to take the aeronautical engineering course (and hopefully become a pilot someday) and i want to ask some questions about this.

    1st- is height really important in becoming a pilot? because i am approximately 5 feet and 1 inch only so i was wondering if i should pursue this career

    2nd- i am thinking of enrolling in the cebu aeronautical technical school and i want to know the average tuition fee for this school because i can’t find it in the internet

    3rd- how many hours is required before you can become an official pilot and how much per hour and where you can take those flights (in cebu area hopefully)

    that’s all i can think of as of now so thanks for this site. the informations are really useful and hopefully you can answer my questions too

    Reply
    • Dear Kyla,

      Height isn’t as important as reach, as in being able to reach all the buttons, toggles, levers and switches in the airplane’s cockpit and instrument panel.

      According to the Civil Aviation Regulations, a Private Pilot License requires a minimum of 40 hours actual flight time. Actually, when you first solo, or fly the trainer airplane all by yourself, you are now an official pilot. Airplane rental costs vary on type of aircraft, and there is usually a flight school nearby whenever there is an airport or a runway.

      As for the tuition fees, search for the flight school’s information online and call. They’ll be able to answer all the questions you have. However, becoming an aeronautical engineer means you’ll end up designing aircraft, satellites, missiles and their propulsion systems instead of learning to fly.

      Don’t be afraid to ask questions, because if you ask, you’re only a fool for a minute, while not asking makes you a fool for a lifetime. Good luck!

      Reply
  96. Hi,

    Any idea on how long the process would take for License conversion? Say I choose take my studies for PPL and CPL (or maybe including the Engine Ratings too) abroad, but I still would like to work here in the PH. Asking since I plan to do so. It’s just that maybe by the time I get back, my time abroad may have been useless 🙁 Thanks

    Reply
    • Dear Daniel,

      How long is the process? It’s the government. Think about it.

      But if your question is geared more toward can you convert your foreign license to a Philippine license, yes, you may!

      According to the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations (06 January 2017) Part 2,2,4 Validation and Conversion of Foreign Licenses and Ratings, specifically 2.2.4.1 (a) A person who holds a holds a current and valid pilot license issued by another Contracting State in accordance with ICAO Annex 1 may apply for validation of such license for use on aircraft registered in the Republic of the Philippines.

      And so on and so forth. Simply stated, if you learned to fly in another country and gotten the license and ratings, your license and logbook is still valid in this country.

      Reply
  97. Good evening captain, I just wanna ask how much does it cost overall in becoming ah professional private pilot including multi engine rating and all the stuffs

    Reply
    • Dear Sem,

      Total costs? About 2 million pesos. Lot of money? Yes. Just don’t count the cost. Live your dream, find ways to save and make money to pay for flights, and work hard towards your ratings, and it will be worth it, like any worthwhile endeavor!

      “Once you’ve tasted flight, you will walk the earth with your eyes forever skyward.” – Leonardo da Vinci

      Reply
  98. Hi Captain Enrique! I just want to know if there are companies in Cebu who offers a job for Aeronautical Engineers? If you know some companies, please share it with me.

    Reply
    • Dear Lee Yan,

      Aeronautical Engineers are primarily involved in aircraft design and aircraft propulsion systems, and studying the aerodynamic performance of aircraft and construction materials used in aircraft construction, i.e. building airplanes, from small general aviation aircraft to large airliners.

      Lufthansa is planning to open a hangar in Mactan Cebu International Airport, so try inquiring if they are hiring. Good luck!

      Reply
  99. Hi i recently found out about flight surgeons and im just hoping if you know anything about how to become one? i think they are also called aviation medical examiner? i also found out that there is the Aerospace Medical Association of the Philippines and i badly wanted to be part of it 🙁

    Reply
    • Dear Sofia,

      First of all, get a degree in medicine. Flight Surgeons are physicians specializing in aviation medicine, and last I heard, the Lung Center of the Philippines was tasked with building Asia’s first Aerodrome for aviation medicine.

      And the Aerospace Medical Association of the Philippines’ office is located in the Philippine Air Force General Hospital in Villamor Airbase in Pasay City. I advise asking the Secretariat of the Philippine Medical Association about this as Aerospace Med is under their jurisdiction. Good luck!

      Reply
      • Hello I just want to ask if PHILSCA is worth the time, money, and effort to become a pilot? Also, I have astigmatism and I’m bothered because I think that they won’t accept me for my condition.

        You can also give me tips or advice in what school is the best and practical. Thank you in advance.

        Reply
        • Dear Jean,

          PHILSCA is government-owned, so their curriculum is the national standard, i.e., you’ll still be able to pass the licensing exams given by CAAP.

          As for your astigmatism, get corrective lenses or eye surgery, whichever is easier/less costly/practical for you. As long as you are not color-blind, your eyes would not be a hindrance.

          As for what school is best, look for CAAP’s list of accredited flight schools, and check out aviationfly.com for one that is nearest your home. Weather can change quickly, and you don’t want to be driving for a few hours to get to the hangar only to find that you can’t fly because the weather is bad and the runway is closed to VFR flights.

          Visual Flight Rules simply means, if you can’t see blue sky, you don’t fly.

          Reply
  100. Hello everyone!

    To become a pilot, you must be at least 16 years old, not color-blind, not experience fainting or losing consciousness, have healthy lungs, not have infectious diseases, and passed a drug test. Have NBI clearance. Be able to read, speak and understand English. Have money for the tuition. Have 2 1×1 ID pictures. That’s it for Step 1.

    You are just enrolling in Ground School, which is like Kindergarten. After finishing Ground School, your school will assist you in applying for your Student Pilot License and Medical Certificate. When these two ID’s arrive, you now start worrying about how much money you have or earn, since you will be paying for Flight Hours. There is really no limit (except minimums required by the government) to how many hours it will take for you to gain confidence in your own ability to fly a small airplane. When you are confident enough to do it, then you start thinking about a career in aviation.

    Bottom line, earn your Private Pilot License first, which is Step 2. Then you will have all the information you need to ask the right questions, like “Do I want to fly for the airlines?” or “Can I pursue this as a career?” or “I’m a pilot! Now what?”

    Always remember: Take off is optional. Landing is required.

    Reply
  101. Good day! I am an incoming Grade 12 student under the STEM track, and I really would love to be a commercial pilot but I’ve been worried about the physical conditions required for the said course. Does having a scoliosis can affect my chances of becoming a pilot ? I have done a research about it but I can’t get enough information or credible sources.

    Reply
    • Dear Indra,

      Just to be clear, there are five kinds of pilot licenses for fixed-wing aircraft, namely Student, Sport or Recreational, Private, Commercial and Airline Transport. In the Philippines we don’t have the Sport or Recreational Pilot License. And the difference between Private and Commercial licenses is as a Private Pilot, you cannot be paid to fly, period. You can offer your services as a pilot for free only, or divide the rental cost of the airplane equally by the number of people onboard.

      As a Commercial Pilot, you can fly corporate planes, cargo planes, do sightseeing flights, agricultural spraying, etc. except fly airliners. Airline Transport Pilots fly airliners. The requirements are more stringent.

      Now, to your question regarding your scoliosis. To confirm you would have to ask a Flight Surgeon, but I don’t think it matters. If you can pass the Ishihara Eye Test for color blindness, have healthy lungs, have all extremities (arms and legs) functioning, don’t do drugs, don’t faint, and have no infectious diseases, then you can be medically-cleared to become a pilot. Your scoliosis could be a problem in the event of a crash landing, which could potentially paralyze you for life. Assuming of course you survive the crash in the first place! (Add smiley face here for gallows humor)

      Don’t worry, pilots always make light of dangerous situations when talking about it, because they are consummate professionals when it comes to safety in their flying.

      “Mistakes are inevitable in aviation, especially when one is still learning new things. The trick is not to make the mistake that will kill you.”

      Reply
  102. Sir, after graduating in BS Aeronautical Engineering, can you then proceed to fly school? or become a license engineer first? Is it necessary? I’m so confuse. Thanks in advance for the response.

    Reply
    • Dear John,

      There is no hindrance to becoming a Private Pilot unless you fail your medical exam, or not have money for flying hours. You can start getting your Student Pilot License as soon as you hit your 16th birthday, then apply for your Private Pilot License after the next birthday. If your aim is to be an Airline Pilot, graduating from ANY four-year course is the minimum.

      Ergo, even if you are still taking up high school, you CAN start learning to fly! Airliner Pilot Flying Programs are often from the airline company itself, and usually means having to graduate from college first. But whether you started in high school or after graduating from college, government requirements for minimum flight hours in specified aircraft types still must be met, before you can apply as First Officer for the airlines.

      As Wilbur Wright once said, “It is possible to fly without motors, but not without knowledge and skill.”

      Reply
  103. Hello po…..

    I am a college student currently taking up BS Aeronautical Engineering, about to enter 4th in two weeks. Currently, I am stressed about my board exam because I feel that I do not have what it takes to pass such a difficult test.

    Even though I took up the course, I don’t exactly have plans on being an Engineer. I am only after the Bachelor’ Degree. If possible, I don’t even want to take the board exam because I am afraid of failing after spending a lot of money for future reviews. Will the Bachelor’s Degree be enough for me to become a pilot and make it into the carriers?

    Thank you. 🙂
    -Michael

    Reply
    • Dear Michael,

      As I understand it, all the airlines require that their First Officer applicants must have graduated from ANY FOUR-YEAR course. I believe this is an ICAO directive, to avoid incidents wherein the airline pilots have unstable minds and are still impulsive enough to cause a CFIT of the airliner because their girlfriend left them for some other guy. Psychology has shown that people who have graduated from college tend to be more centered and more responsible.

      With regards to your taking the Board Exam, do try. Government exams are simply testing your knowledge of the basics. Your college exams are more complicated, believe me. This is based on personal experience and research. There are excellent schools, and there are mediocre schools, usually those run by the government. If the graduates from government schools can pass the board exams, why can’t you?

      As an Aeronautical Engineer, you will know more about the airplane you are flying than your own flight instructor. If you take the exams and pass, then you have a fallback in case you can’t continue to becoming an airline pilot. Just my opinion, though.

      “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” – Confucius

      p.s. ICAO – United Nations agency, the International Civil Aviation Organization
      CFIT – Controlled Flight Into Terrain, know to the non-aviator as an airplane crash. AVOID AT ALL COSTS!

      Reply
  104. Good day. Hi just like the others, I also dreamed to be a pilot and to travel. But my parents are not financially stable, so I took up nursing and now I’m currently working abroad to save for the tuition fee. But with my income it will take a long time for me to earn and to be in a flying school. That’s why I’m seeking for scholarship program. Hope you can help or recommend something. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Dear Yuri,

      Assuming that you took an airplane to go abroad, I would also assume that there must be flying schools where you are. Do not give up your dream to be a pilot. Yes, it is expensive to learn to fly. So does learning to become a nurse.

      Now, to the reality of the situation: You’ve probably been reading some of my comments here and found the amount staggering. Sure, bottom line, that’s a lot of money we’re talking about, just to get your Private Pilot License. My question is, how much did your parents spend for your education? Total your college tuition fees. Did you consider your high school tuition? What about elementary? If you try to think back to how much they’ve spent rearing you, you’ll begin to realize that they invested a lot already. But that is what loving parents do: Spend for their children without thinking of the cost.

      Now you are working abroad as a nurse, trying to save millions, correct? What if I told you that the real problem with cost really isn’t the bottom line, but only the INITIAL GROUND SCHOOL TUITION FEE? In the school where I learned to fly, this amount was 60,000 pesos. It’s an old school, probably established when I was still in elementary. I’m already 49 years old at the time of this reply. New flight schools probably charge around 100,000 pesos, but the amount should be in that general area. Compute for the exchange rate of the currency of the country you’re working in, and search for local flight schools, and compare.

      Find a reputable flight school in your area, and inquire about Ground School: What are the costs, is it a classroom set-up or one-on-one instruction, do they have a hangar with their own mechanics, do they charge airplane rental wet (including fuel costs) or dry (separate fuel charges, most likely dependent on how much fuel was consumed), and what kind of support do they offer with your application for pilot licenses, do they sell pilot supplies, etc?

      And when you embark on this journey of learning to fly, ask yourself this question: How far do I want to go with this? Do I wish to fly my family to different airports as a private pilot, or do I want to make a living as an airline pilot? Remember, it takes dedication, perseverance and hard work to accomplish tasks of any value.

      Remember what Amelia Earhart said: “The most effective way to do it, is to do it.”

      Reply
  105. Hi I am a Grade 10 Student and I wanted to become an Airline Pilot, which strand should I take for SHS?

    Reply
    • Dear Christian,

      One of the requirements to becoming an Airline Pilot is having graduated from ANY four-year course. So choose a strand that best fits your abilities, and after senior high, find a course related to your strand and graduate. Honors are not required.

      When you start learning to fly, you’ll realize that becoming a pilot involves a lot of time, effort and money, and when you apply with one of the airlines, you’ll realize that other people are there in line waiting also. However, dedication will always help you achieve your goals, no matter what obstacles life puts in your path. So aim high and reach for the skies!

      Reply
    • Dear Duke,

      Becoming a pilot per se has only a few requirements, namely at least 16 years old when you apply for a Student Pilot License and 17 years old when you apply for a Private Pilot License; good health, good enough eyesight, and good intellect. Good health requires that you don’t faint or get dizzy, can breath normally, and can move your eyes, mouth, hands and feet. Good enough eyesight means passing the Pseudoisochromatic Plate Test, or Ishihara Eye Exam, a color-deficiency exam developed by Japanese ophthalmologist Dr. Shinobu Isihara in 1918, and good intellect means passing the exams to test your understanding of flight and safely manipulating the controls of the aircraft.

      So if you have met all these requirements, then you will be allowed to become a pilot in the future. As an aeronautical engineer, you will most likely be better equipped than pilots since you’ll understand design features more easily.

      Reply
  106. Hi sir ?? I am a Grade 12 SHS STEM Student at this upcoming school year. My Father told me that I dont need to take a college course related to aviation if I ever wanted to become a pilot because what I can learn from that course , can also be taught at a flying school. My Father is planning to take me to PalAv ( Philippine Airlines Aviation ) after college. Now my Father only wants me to think of a course that I could use as a backup or a course that can let me do something while at the same time being a pilot.

    May I have some advice on what courses i can take?

    Reply
    • Dear Jo,

      Your father is correct in saying that you don’t need to take an aviation course just to learn how to become a pilot. I’m a dentist, and always wanted to fly a plane since high school. Never had the money, so I waited until I made enough money to pay for my flight lessons. Ground school can be accomplished in a month or less, with frequent two-hour sessions. Actual flight hours are more difficult to accomplish due to weather conditions. You’d need a lot of flying experience in specific types of aircraft before being allowed to apply for the airlines. However, pilot-applicants have to be a graduate of a four-year course, aside from a minimum height requirement which is related to being able to reach all the buttons and switches in the cockpit.

      So, ask yourself: what are my academic strengths? Choose a course accordingly. Take up Engineering, or Nursing, or Business Administration or Accounting. Any four-year course will do.

      You can finish Ground School during the start of your summer vacation, then do Flight School until classes begin. Learning to fly is similar to learning to drive in that you can do it when you have free time available. That explanation is really simplistic and doesn’t really explain the other aspects of aviation, but you get the point.

      So do well in your chosen college degree, graduate, and apply with PAL’s Flight School. As with anything worthwhile, it takes hard work and dedication to succeed. But the rewards are more than worth the effort.

      I don’t intend to become an airline pilot. I only wish to get a Private Pilot’s License so I can enjoy flying small planes. And believe me, it is a wonderful experience!

      Reply
  107. Hello sir, I am currently a Senior high school STEM student, planing to take BS in Aeronautical Engineering soon in PhilSca. I really want to know, what other jobs I can take after graduating aside becoming a pilot (I can’t find something in the internet). Also I wanted to go abroad or something else, any suggestions? I will be looking forward to your reply. Thanks. Can I also have that study pay later program thing?

    Reply
    • Dear John,

      Aeronautical Engineers design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites and missiles. They design, build,and test prototypes of these vessels. They are NOT aircraft mechanics; their ideas and creations and inventions are what mechanics repair.

      Jobs abroad? Apply for NASA, and build spacecraft. Pilots can only apply to become astronauts, but spacecraft are always going into space, even without astronauts. So your creations may go where no man has gone before!

      Reply
  108. Hi. I am currently enrolled at PhilSCA taking B.S. Air Transportation. It is my freshmen year and i dont have a detailed knowledge about my course. My question is that, first, does my course can be use to become a pilot? And second, what are the future jobs i can obtain if I graduate with a course of BS Air Transportation? Does Air Traffic Control is a possible job in my course?

    Thank you for your answers.

    Reply
    • Dear Jasper,

      A degree holder of BS Air Transportation is specifically designed towards management, so you may one day apply as an Air Traffic Management Officer and be the voice of God on the airplane’s radio.

      It may aid you to become a pilot in that the course discusses the very same topics that pilots must learn, although the requirements may be a bit different. At any rate, you’re still a freshman, and having that degree under your belt would aid you to become an airline pilot as that is one of the requirements that airline companies look for: a bachelor’s degree in any 4-year course. The added advantage you will get is that you can work for the airlines as administration and management, and not just as a pilot.

      Reply
      • Hi Capt! Thank you for your informative answer. It really helps me to decide what will i do in my career. At least now i know that BSAT is about management and operations, and not specifically about piloting. Thank you again Capt!

        Reply
        • Dear Jasper,

          Glad to be of service! Always happy to help, especially someone who might one day become an Air Traffic Management Officer, or, to us pilots,the voice of God on the radio! Don’t piss off the ATMO! You might become the first to arrive over the runway but the last cleared to land. Ha ha ha ha

          Reply
    • Hi Kuya Jasper Camero. I am a grade 12 student and I am planning also to enroll at PhiLSCA and take BS Major in Flying. I heard that there is an entrance examination for that school? Can you recommend me what should I study to pass the exam? Thank you so much. Please email me

      Reply
      • Hi Layn! I did take an entrance examination in PhilSCA aka PHILSCAAT. Based on my own experience, i do recommend you to study the basic subjects such as math, science and english. Most of the answers to the questions can be found in the Grade 12 curriculum. Also, you should study about Space Relations, Mechanisms, and Grammar.

        I hope this will help you well. 🙂

        P.S.: I dont know your email, that’s why i send my reply here in this article.

        Reply
    • Hi sir Jasper, I want to ask if there’s any fee that you paid for the course BSAT at PhilSCA because I know that PhilSCA is included in the colleges/univeristies that have a free tuition law. I wanted to know if there is anything to pay like the planes that will be use or is it cover by the free tuiton law?

      Thank you so much 🙂

      Reply
      • Hi Aldrin Laureano, you are correct that PHILSCA is one of the colleges/universities that is included in the free tuition law. When I enrolled last April 27, the PHILSCA admin will ask you to choose two option: Option no. 1 is that you will not avail the free tuition and you will pay for all the expenses per sem. While option no. 2 is that you will avail the free tuition BUT you are required to sign a waiver that says you have to work in a government setting/office as a service exchange for the free tuition. For short, after you graduate, you will work in the government to repay the subsidy for your free tuition.

        Hope this will help you well

        Reply
  109. Hi Capt.!

    I just want to ask if i still can become a pilot if i cannot read the figures shown in an ishihara eye test
    But i can distinguish the colors though.

    Thank

    Reply
    • Dear Jm,

      Unfortunately, no. The inability to distinguish the numbers automatically kills your dream to be a pilot.

      Technology is advancing so rapidly and all airliners and newer small airplanes now utilize a glass cockpit, or a computer screen displaying all necessary information regarding safety of flight and monitoring of vital functions of the aircraft.

      The information is crammed into a small screen with different colors to separate the data, and if you failed the Ishihara Eye Test, then you are likely to miss important, probably time-critical info.

      Maybe you could work as an aviation maintenance technician?

      p.s. Finally found the name for that specific eye test. Thanks, Jm.

      Reply
      • Hi Capt.

        I read an article saying he did got his license because he can distinguish red from yellow from green,
        That is my case sir, i can distinguish that colors but not the figures in ishihara test

        Reply
        • Dear Justin Brylle,

          Did the article you read say whether the person who wrote it got an airplane pilot’s license? Then again, as per the:

          Civil Aviation of the Philippines
          Civil Aviation Regulations
          Section 2.10.2.1.4

          Color Perception Requirements
          (a) The applicant shall be required to demonstrate the ability to readily perceive those colors the perception of which is necessary for the safe performance of duties.

          (b) The applicant shall be tested for the ability to correctly identify a series of pseudoisochromatic plates in daylight or in artificial light of the same color temperature such as that provided by CIE standard illuminants C or D2 as specified by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE).

          (c) An applicant obtaining a satisfactory result as prescribed by the Authority shall be assessed as fit. An applicant failing to obtain a satisfactory result in such a test shall be assessed as unfit unless able to readily distinguish the colors used in air navigation and correctly identify aviation colored lights. Applicants who fail to meet this criteria shall be assessed as unfit except for Class 2 assessment with the following restriction: valid daytime only.

          Translation in simple English:

          (a) The applicant should be able to see the different colors.

          (b) The applicant will be tested with plates with differently colored dots, and some of those dots form numbers which the applicant should be able to identify quickly before the Aviation Medical Examiner flips it to the next plate, and the test will be done in a room with windows, during daytime, or if windows aren’t available, in lighting similar to daylight.

          (c) The applicant who fails the test can be given a Class 2 Medical Certificate, which is for Student Pilots, Private Pilots,Flight Operations Officers, Glider Pilots or Free Balloon Pilots only, meaning you don’t get to fly for pay. And if you cannot distinguish colors, then you get to fly only during daytime so you can visually avoid other aircraft.

          I hope this cleared up some questions, although additional questions are welcome!

          Reply
    • Dear Ralph,

      Why not?

      A surely as a car mechanic can learn to drive a car, a plane mechanic can also learn to fly a plane! And you would probably be the best pilot around, since you can fix the plane that you fly.

      Yes, it is a little known fact that pilots are not allowed to tinker around the airplane powerplant, nor replace the instruments, nor fill up the gas tank. A pilot is supposed to follow a checklist and visually inspect all parts of an airplane, but are not allowed to even change the batteries! That’s the aviation mechanic’s job. And woe to the pilot who failed to check that the maintenance records of the aircraft is correct and updated.

      So, yes, Ralph, learn to fly the plane’s that you fix. Your airplane would most likely be the safest one in the world.

      Reply
  110. Hi! I am a Grade 12 SHS graduate and I am researching schools and other information about Aviation. I want to take Bachelor’s degree major in Flying because I want to become a pilot. But don’t know what school offers this course. And, I am also not knowledgeable of the requirements to pass in the school and the tuition fee also. Any recommendation please? And are there scholarship programs to apply for this course? Thank you 🙂

    Reply
    • Dear Layn Chris,

      Check out Aviationfly’s website. As for other information, look for my comments on this site. It contains a LOT of information about flying in the Philippines, and if there is a question that hasn’t been answered, feel free to ask again, because if you ask a question, you’re only a fool for a minute, but if you don’t ask questions, you’ll be a fool for a lifetime. Live the dream, aim high, and stop until you drop!

      Reply
      • Thank you Sir. But, can I have an advice on what should we study if ever we will take an entrance exam on Aviation schools Like PHILSCA?

        Reply
        • Dear Layn Chris,

          Entrance exams are simply that: exams to test an applicant’s aptitude or, simply put, I.Q. Test. Don’t worry too much about entrance exams. The thing you should be more concerned about is health and tuition fees. Learning to fly is expensive. But even if you have the money but fail the medical requirements, you’d be limited to a Private Pilot License and you won’t be allowed to get paid to fly. Passengers may pay an equal share of the plane’s rental and fuel costs, but that’s it. You still pay your share.

          Reply
    • Dear Chrisitan,

      5 feet 4 inches minimum.

      There is no minimum height requirement required by civil regulations to get a pilot’s license. However, airline companies will impose minimum and/or maximum height requirements on their pilot-applicants because they’ve already bought the Boeing or Airbus aircraft, and if you can’t reach all the controls or step on the pedals or see over the dashboard, or, in extreme cases, bang your head on the overhead switches as you enter the cockpit, then you shouldn’t fly for the airlines.

      If you’re too tall, you can’t fly for the military either. Your head will keep the canopy from closing, and they’ll have to squeeze your head down, pushing you deeper into the ejection seat, and you’ll be unable to turn your head to see if the enemy fighter is on your six.

      In general aviation aircraft, too short means you won’t be able to see the runway while the plane is taking off, and too tall means your headset would be pushing into your skull while your legs are trying to spread wider than the yoke..

      If you want to be a cabin attentant, same thing. You have to be able to reach the overhead bin, and short enough that your head doesn’t bang agains the top of the door opening. The things we take for granted, right?

      Reply
  111. Good day,

    I’ve liked airplanes since I was a child, living in Villamor AB in the 90s certainly helped in that..
    I currently play with Flight Simulator Games on PC as my hobby… Currently flying in FS2004 and DCS.. plus other quite realistic stuff in the past.. So pretty much I have some rough idea how to use planes..

    I’m currently working as a lowly rank-and-file. I have no money for a full Integrated Flight Training.
    Everyday, I feel like I’m fooling myself… Deep inside, I know don’t want to be stuck in an office processing documents and doing other stuff.. I want to be up there in the sky…

    Every time a plane flies overhead, I tend to look at them.. even though I know some of my coworkers will laugh at me, looking like a moron for them….

    I’m 31 and have no connections to anyone in the industry.. I also wear glasses and weak at math..
    How can I be a pilot.. ? or do i still even have a chance in flying?

    Kind regards,

    Reply
    • Dear Pauldy,

      I’ve also liked airplanes since I was a child, watching them fly over our house near the old Lahug airport (the first airport in Cebu, before air operations were moved to Mactan Island and the old airport area turned into the Cebu I.T. Park, with Cebu City Waterfront Hotel now occupying the end of the old runway) and often flew from Cebu to Davao since childhood. When one of my high school classmates took up flying, I asked him how much it would cost to learn how to fly. He replied (and this was back in the early 80’s), “Does your father have 2 million pesos?” We barely had enough for our tuition, so I felt dejected.

      Fast forward to the year 2016. I was 47 years old, a dentist, married and with kids, and a former child patient who was now a pilot told me he could teach me to fly an airplane, if I wanted.

      I never got to play flight simulator games, only made paper airplanes while in high school, flew kites during summers. I am now 49 years old, and still have a Student Pilot License. I have to renew my Medical Certificate Class 2 each year since I am older than 40, and have to wear reading glasses. I also only get to fly on Sundays, if the weather is good and my Flight Instructor is available.

      Ladies and gentlemen, there is no need to rush, nor is there a reason to feel depressed. Financing is available, or you can set aside part of your salary each month for flight hours. Becoming a pilot is a skill and a profession. You can choose to make it a career, or just learn it as a skill. As for math, calculators are allowed, and checklists are always needed anyway. I’m lousy at math, which is why I chose to be a dentist. With only 32 teeth in a mouth, what math do you need?

      You can be a Commercial Pilot, flying for corporate employers, or air charter services, or agricultural spray planes,, or geographical mapping, or news reporting, or air ambulance transport, Or you can be an Airline Transport Pilot, driving a flying bus from point to point on the globe, visiting different places and meeting new cultures, and bringing your immediate family to various tourist destinations.

      And to answer your comment directly, full integrated Flight Training is necessary only for those kids who have the financial capacity to become full-fledged First Officers by the time they reach 25 years of age. Why 25? After senior high, they need at least a four-year Bachelor’s Degree. and 17 years old is the minimum age to apply for Private Pilot License. Then you have to get a Commercial Pilot License. Then get Instrument Rated. Then get rated for a Multi-Engine Aircraft. Then apply for either a Multi-Crew License or an Airline Transport License. On average,you’ll be around 25 when you finally get hired to fly as Second-in-Command of a passsenger airliner.

      But for those guys and gals older than 25 and still wish to fly for the airlines, just get the licenses and more importantly, the EXPERIENCE needed, and apply. The airlines always place a higher value on people with experience than fresh graduates alone..

      Don’t give up, fulfill your dream, and be one of the awesome

      Reply
    • Sorry… I just realized my question was full of unimportant drama and cringey… 🙁

      basically my question is:

      I’m 31 and have no connections to anyone in the industry.. I also wear glasses and weak at math..
      How can I be a pilot.. ? or do i still even have a chance in flying?

      Sorry again.. btw I forgot to say how great this article is..

      Kind regards

      Reply
      • Dear Pauldy,

        To answer your question directly:

        First of all, find a flying school near your home. You can use aviationfly dot com to search for one. Don’t be afraid to inquire about requirements and costs, since they are a school, and want business.

        As for wearing glasses, as long as you are able to see small objects in the far distance and able to read the instruments on the flight panel and are not color-blind, then you’re fine.

        As for being weak in math, I’ve always had failing grades in Mathematics since Kindergarten, and the math involved is in the flight planning portion of your trip, which you do while on the ground. You are allowed to use a calculator, and notes, and to ask other pilots for help. No worries there!

        I started flying lessons at 47. I’m now 49, and still a Student Pilot. I almost finished my flight requirements, with just a cross-country flight left to go, and the NTC Radio Operator-Aircraft Exam to finish, then I can start taking exams for my Private Pilot License. When I have the time.

        All these were written in the reply to your comment, but I guess you wrote your succeeding comment just before my reply was approved, hence you weren’t able to read it yet. All the info in this comment is also in my previous reply, just a bit more wordy though.

        But again, pursue your dreams and take to the sky! Be awesome!

        Reply
  112. hi captain!
    I would like to ask if you would know any airline cadetship programs?
    I am currently 16 turning 17 on may 27 and I looked up the cadetship program that is being offered by emirates in dubai although the tuition for it as said by one is in the range of 10 million pesos. Although that is a lot im seriously considering if i should apply for it because who wouldnt want to fly for one of the best airline in the world? Anyways i would also like to ask if i should apply for it right after i finish senior highschool which would be in 2019 or should I finish university first I plan to finish my degree in geography in U.P diliman. My mom said that if I finished university that I would have an “ace up my sleeve” and it would give me an advantage when i apply for the program I would like to ask if this is true.
    For my last question: (I play microsoft flight simulator with a yoke and a throttle quadrant, I would like to know if it would help me when I pursue my dream!) anyways thank you and It is much appreciated if you take the time to read my comments Thanks!

    Reply
    • Dear Federic,

      Cebu Pacific offers airline pilot cadetship programs, with the training done in Adelaide, Australia. British Airways is also offering a cadet pilot program. PAL’s Ab Initio Training Program costs about 5 million, if I remember correctly.

      However, I know for certain that the requirements for an Airline Transport Pilot License are the same worldwide. Some countries may have slightly different requirements regarding citizenship or security clearances, but in effect, they are all equal in one aspect: a minimum of 1,500 flight hours. Additional flight training may be required for the type of aircraft to be flown for the airline, but the standard remains the same number of hours. This cannot be changed because it is a globally-recognized, accepted and approved requirement.

      If you wish to become an airline pilot, you can take up Bachelor of Science Major in Aviation, or Bachelor of Science in Georgrapy, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing. What’s the difference? All arilines require a cadet pilot to have finished at least a four-year degree course AND a minimum of 1,500 hours flight time.

      Simply put, it doens’t matter where you learned to fly because the rules are the same.

      I checked that Emirates Cadet Pilot Program that you wrote about. The question is, do you have a UAE passport and a Khulasat Al Qaid? I could be wrong, or maybe they are more flexible about their pilot’s citizenship requirements now, but please make sure before you consider applying. Remember, that’s a different country with a different culture. The only similarity you might find there is in the pilot community, since we all speak the same language in the sky.

      And yes, flying Microsoft Sim X with the yoke and throttle instead of just a keyboard is a huge help, since this will familiarize you with the controls and movement of the aircraft with regards to the direction of the controls. HOWEVER, as with most things, simulations are often different from the real thing. Just look at what happened in the movie “Sully” with Tom Hanks. I asked around (then tried it myself) and everybody says that simulator controls are way too sensitive compared to the actual thing. It helps a bit, but it’s much better to actually fly. A lot more fun also.

      Advanced Happy Birthday!

      A final word: If you can afford it, start learning to fly now. You’re of the minimum age requirement, and building up 1,500 hours actually takes a very long time to accomplish. You can fly on weekends, on average two hours each time, dependent on the weather in your area. Fun fact: 1,500 hours is 750 days times 2 hours a day. At first you’ll just be able to fly two hours a day, since it will drain your energy.. Good luck!

      Reply
  113. So in all Aviation School in the Philippines. Correct me if I am wrong. PHILSCA does have the lowest tuition fee in there right?

    Reply
    • Probably it would be as like as you said. Thus, with the new implemented rule cast by our own government, every state universities/ colleges shall not impose a tuition fee to the incoming students for they will cover it to help students get to college. Still there be a miscellaneous fee that every student has to pay.
      As for your question, I do believe that PHILSCA is the lowcost school in the Philippines as it is a government-owned institution and is supported as well by the government.

      Reply
      • PHILSCA topped the list among best aeronautical schools in the Philippines also as it gains high percentage of board passers and for being Top 1 in the PRC Aeronautical Engineering Board Examination for almost 7 years in a row from 2004 until October 2012. (According to the internet). Lowcost doesnt mean less quality

        Reply
        • To add to Ab Kat’s comment:

          “Low cost doesn’t mean less quality.” Totally agree! Having a brand name usually adds on about a thousand percent increase in the cost. But PHILSCA meets the standards set by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, which is the regulatory licensing body for all things dealing with aviation in our country. In effect, PHILSCA is a non-profit flight school.

          Reply
  114. Hi, thank you for this awesome website you have here. Very informative.
    I just wanna ask a favor. Can you give me a list of all spendings from enrollment until I can be hired as a pilot.
    I mean…. can you tabulate it or in a simpliest way you can. Please 🙂
    Price quantity
    School —–Php ——
    Instructor? —– php ——
    Airplane(for training) ——-php ——hrs
    Others requirements. …

    Thank you ?

    Reply
    • Dear John MIchael,

      Believe it or not, your request is very complicated. As a rule of thumb, costs will vary, depending on location, usually related to the cost of the aviation gas, and the salaries of the flight school’s Ground and Flight Instructors, plus the overhead expenses of the flight school itself. And of course, I can only comment on what I myself have experienced and tried, which may not necessarily be the general consensus.

      Here’s what I spent so far with Mactan Aviation Technology Center, Inc.

      Initial Enrollment: roughly 60,000 pesos, which includes:
      -Ground School lessons
      -Ground School Instructor’s salary
      -Subject Exam costs
      -Processing of Student Pilot’s License application with CAAP

      Flight Instruction:
      -Depends on type of aircraft. 12,500 pesos per hour for Cessna 172 (a four-seater), 8,500k per hr for Cessna 152 (two-seater with more horsepower) and finally, 8k/hr. for Cessna 150 (also two-seater)
      -Cost already includes fuel costs, flight instructor’s salary and airplane rental.

      Other requirements:
      Medical requirements for your Medical Certificate Class 2, which include:
      -Clear chest x-ray with interpretation
      -Electrocardiogram result interpretation with the strip that came out of the machine
      -Audiometry exam results
      -Eye refraction exam result
      -Urinalysis result with no infection
      -Drug exam result, similar to what you need for Driver’s License
      -Neuropsychiatric Exam (I honestly don’t know about this, as I was not required to get one. Probably because I was already in my 40s when I started learning to fly, and already have a driver’s license. Most likely related to the Andreas Lubitz inicident.)
      -Dental profile (a copy of your dental record)

      And of course, a copy of your National Statistics Office Birth Certificate and National Bureau of Investigation Clearance..

      Now, to be hired as a pilot, how much more to spend? As with all questions, the answer is equivocal: It depends.

      If you are aiming for flying for an airline, a whole heck of a lot more. But if you wish to start getting paid, get a Commercial Pilot’s License. Which requires a Private Pilot’s License beforehand. Which, in turn, requires a Student Pilot’s License!

      Here’s where it gets tedious. As soon as you finish Ground School and pass the exams for each subject, you’ll be required to gather your requirements for Application for Student Pilot License (see above) and get checked out by the Flight Surgeon personally. MATCI flies one of the CAAP’s FS to Davao City since they have a lot of students and pilots who are willing to share in the cost of the ticket, and willing to pay the FS for her time. Since I live in Cebu City, I fly to Davao City once a year to have my Medical Certificate renewed. If you live in Metro Manila, you can visit CAAP to schedule your medical exam.

      Anyway, when your SPL and MC2 IDs arrive, you can then schedule with your flight school when your Orientation Flight will be. And get to meet your Flight Instructor, and ask for his contact details, so that you can begin your flight lessons.

      From SPL to PPL requires a minimum of 40 flight hours, and passing the National Telecommunications Commission’s exam for Radio Operator’s License-Aircraft (if you live outside Metro Manila, the NTC exam happens once a year in the main city of your island; if you miss or fail it, then you wait another year! Try to pass it the first time.) and the most difficult requirement I have encountered so far is taking the written exam for the 10 subjects, namely Air Law, Aircraft General Knowledge, Flight Performance and Planning, Human Performance, Meteorology, Navigation, Operational Procedures, Principles of Flight, Communications, and Engligh Language Proficiency. These exams are done only in CAAP Central Office in Pasay City, And you are allowed to take a maximum of three subjects each time, if there are not that many examinees.

      Considering the traffic, and the cost of living in Metro Manila, plus travelling to and from, I have to study the logistics very carefully, so as to maximize the cost-to-benefit ratio. And that, ladies and generals, is just to get a Private Pilot License. You’ll go through the whole thing all over again to get your Commercial Pilot License, and your Multi-Crew or Airline Transport Pilot Licenses.

      Sure, it will get expensive. Sure, it will be difficult. Yes, it is worth it.

      Once you are a pilot, you will always be looking toward the sky, longing to return. And remember, you belong to a very small part of the world’s population. Sure, anybody can ride an airplane. Only a select group gets to ride behind the controls. Aim for the sky and fly forever!

      Reply
    • Dear James,

      The main carriers in our good old islands are Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific. I haven’t been able to check the requirements for Air Asia, Zest Air, or any others that offer flights in the Philippines, but I have to safely assume that they follow the other two, regarding the standards.

      Yes, pilot applicants NEED to have at least a four-year college degree. Period. Having a Commercial Pilot’s License simply means that you receive compensation for flying. It does not automatically guarantee that the pilot is smart enough or is psychologically capable of safely transporting passengers. Getting a college degree often shows a level of maturity that is measurable by psychologists.

      Let’s talk a bit about Andreas Gunter Lubitz, of Germanwings Flight 9525. He was 27 at the time. He had just graduated from high school when he was accepted into Lufthansa’s Flight Training School. From June 2011 to December 2013 he worked as a Lufthansa Flight Attendant while training for his Commercial Pilot’s License. He joined Germanwings in June 2014 as a First Officer. On March 24, 2015 he deliberately flew an Airbus A320-211 into the side of the Alps. Those are the known facts.

      Mr. Lubitz did not have a college degree. He only had a Commercial Pilot’s License. I rest my case.

      Reply
    • You can get your commercial pilot license without having a degree course, but if you want to apply to the big Airlines in the Philippines their hiring preference is CPL holders with college degrees. I honestly think this is a great move by the airlines as it ensures that people have a degree they can use in case they need to stop flying due to an injury or other reason.

      Reply
  115. In case anyone is interested we now have a website covering all the Pilot Schools in the Philippines plus over 200 pilot schools across the Asia Pacific region. We have a dedicated team to help answer your questions and assist you in finding the right pilot training school for you. The website is free – visit us anytime aviationfly (dot) com 🙂 Safe flying everyone!

    Also huge admiration for Capt Enrique for being a constant support on this thread!

    Reply
    • Dear Michael,

      Excellent website! Easy to navigate, informative without being too wordy, and I truly appreciate the search filter controls. The government listing of the Civil Aviation of the Philippines being what it is, just a listing, it is difficult trying to find the right school what with the numerous questions that are running around in the minds of potential pilots.

      With your search filters, finding the right school would be a snap!

      Disclaimer: I do not receive any monetary consideration from Michael Gray nor from the website for support or advertisement, although if they were willing to give, who am I to refuse an offer? (Laughing out loud)

      PILOTS: People Involved in Lifting Others and Objects Toward the Sky

      Reply
      • Thank you Capt. Enrique 🙂 yes our aim was to create a free and easy to use online platform which individuals could use to see all of the education training institute choices that they have.

        We would be happy to feature you on our social media channels.

        Reply
        • Dear Michael,

          I was reviewing the comments and questions here on Fehl’s page and saw your comment.

          I am honored that you would want to feature me. I can tell you that if you did, your media channel subscriptions would drop instantly because I’m too ugly, too shy and not knowledgeable enough! It would be a mistake! 🙂

          If you do wish to feature me, can I just be an unseen resource person?

          Reply
  116. Tanong ko lang po kung what course should I take to be a pilot. kailan po ba yung course ko related sa eroplano or it’s okay kahit hindi siya related?

    Reply
    • Dear Patrick,

      Learning to fly an airplane is similar to learning how to drive a car. Kahit Marine Engineering pa ang course na kukunin mo, ok pa rin. Pero kung ang gusto mo is to become an airline pilot talaga, then Bachelor of Science Major in Flying ang course na dapat sa iyo. Sana nakakatulong!

      Reply
  117. I want to transfer to another College. How much is the Tuition Fee in Airlink International Aviation College for Bachelors Degree in Aviation Major in Flying? I am about to shift from IT to Pilot course.

    Reply
    • Also are the facilities from Airlink International Aviation College are good? I want to know more about this College. Please tell me.

      Reply
      • Dear Alejandro,

        It would be better to search for it on the internet yourself. If it is accredited by the Civil Aviation of the Philippines, then it should be good enough.

        Reply
    • Dear Karthik raja,

      I suggest going online and searching for the closest aviation school near your home. Or view the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines list of accredited flight schools, of which Mactan Aviation Technology Center, Inc. is one.

      From my experience, the tuition for Ground Instruction is 60,000 pesos. Aricraft rental for Flight Instruction is 8,000 pesos per hour for the Cessna 150, Php 8,500/hr for Cessna 152 (Both are two-seater airplanes) and 12.5k/hr for the C 172, a four-seater airplane. I use the four-seater since my wife flies with me in the back as a passenger, while the Flight Instructor sits on the right side.

      MATCI is not a structured-instruction (for lack of a better term) flight school. Their method of instruction is, if there are many students at the same time, then you all sit in one classroom, while if there is only one student, the Ground Instructor can either teach you in the classroom, or you both just sit in the hangar’s office or, if you can convince him, even at your home! If so, provide snacks and drinks, please. It’s Filipino hospitality at it’s best. You’ll need a whiteboard and whiteboard pens, and that’s it.

      You’ll be taught the different subjects regarding flight, and will be required to pass the exam after each lesson, before moving on to the next subject.

      After finishing your Ground Instruction, they’ll assist you in applying for your Student Pilot’s License and you’ll have to get the necessary government documents and medical exam results to present to the CAAP Flight Surgeon for your Class 2 Medical Certificate. If either ID card is expired, lost or misplaced, you do not fly. Period. Flying an aircraft without the necessary Pilot’s License AND Medical Certificate is a violation and if caught, may result in suspension or revocation, either temporarily or permanently.

      When your SPL and MC2 arrives, that’s when you will then schedule for your Flight Instruction, usually when you have about two to three hours free. You can do fly as often as the weather permits or your money still flows..

      Duration of study is flexible. If you can have Ground School daily, then that’s two hours each day for about 10 or so subjects. If you are already working, it can be done after office hours or on weekends. It really depends on your schedule. Hope this helps!

      Reply
    • Dear T,

      If you mean obtaining a Federal Aviation Authority Airline Transport Pilot License and moving to the Philippines to work with one of the many airline companies that operate here, yes, it’s possible.

      If you wish to know the details, go to the Civil Aviation Authority’s official website, On the right side under DOWNLOADS is the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations bullet. Select the blue plus sign to open the selections, and tap on Civil Aviation Regulations, where you will be redirected to another page. When on the Civil Aviation Regulations page, select PART 02 Personnel Licensing, which is a downloadable PDF file. Open the file and slide down to Part 2.2.4 Validation and Conversion of Foreign Licenses and Ratings.

      And to put all of that legalese in a nutshell, it means just present to CAAP your FAA ATPL and Medical Certificate, fill up the forms, pay the fees, and have your American pilot’s license converted into a Philippine one. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  118. Good day sir!

    OMNI aviation sent me a brochure regarding on their training program from zero hours of flying to becoming an a320 rated first officer. And also, I joined a group in Facebook about aviation (ppsg), I saw a post there last year that a new first officer of cebu pacific just accumulated 270 hours ( 200 hrs on cessna and 70 hours on simulator) and is already working with the airline. My question is: regarding on the ATPL you stated, do we really need 1500 hours for us to apply for an airline? Like, I mean to become an airline pilot, one needs an atpl.

    Reply
    • Dear Myles,

      That is a very interesting question about a very vague point. Thanks for asking. Next question? Just kidding.

      To apply for an Airline Transport Pilot License, the applicant needs not less than 1,500 hours flight time with a maximum 100 hours in flight simulator. Broken down, this is 200 hours in an aircraft as pilot-in-command, or not less than 100 hours as PIC and the rest as co-pilot; 200 hours cross-country flying, with not less than 100 hours as PIC; and 75 hours instrument flying, with a maximum of 30 hours of instrument ground time, or flight simulator.

      Whereas, an applicant for a Multi-crew Pilot License requires that the applicant should have at least 240 flight hours, with no less than 40 hours actual flight time.

      It would seem that getting an MPL is much easier, doesn’t it? Here’s the main difference. If you get an ATPL, you can aplly for any airline, worlwide. Multi-crew Pilot License means that if you apply to fly for Cebu Pacific, you fly ONLY for Cebu Pacific. Your MPL will be useless if you try to apply with Philippine Airlines. MPLs are usually aircraft-specific also, meaning if you fly Airbus, you won’t get to fly Boeing.

      Of course, while flying for the airline, you get to accumulate flight hours and experience, and eventually you can then apply for the ATPL to make you a free agent, elgigible for any airline.

      Reply
    • I’ve encountered an issue in this also. I have applied on PHILSCA as a freshmen and met a one proffesional instructor there. He said that airline companies now accept applicant with having atleast 200 – 300 hours of flight time. I was surprised too to know because usually it takes 1500 hours to get accepted to an airline company. According to him, this was due of shortage of pilots in some airline company.

      Reply
      • Dear Ab Kat,

        It’s a new classification of the International Civil Aviation Organization to essentially speed up the production of First Officers or co-pilots. The severe shortage of pilots worldwide forces airline companies to reduce the rest periods for their pilots, as there are often more planes and passengers than there are pilots to fly them.

        The MPL is designed to produce a co-pilot in 240 hours flight time, focusing mostly on cockpit/crew resource management training. Simply put, it emphasizes how both Captain and First Officer cooperate with each other in airplane cockpits, as many aircraft incidents were found to be due to lack of communication between the pilot and co-pilot, who is the junior officer of the two, and often is afraid to voice out his concerns regarding the safe operation of the aircraft.

        Do keep in mind that having an MPL is an airline company-specific license, in that if you started working with Cebu Pacific, you’ll retire as a Cebu Pacific Captain. If the salary is not enough, there’s really nothing you can do until you get an ATPL. ‘)

        Reply
        • thank you very much captain!.
          so does that mean, that if i wanted to be a first officer in their airline and say i have a license of MPL, will they gonna hold me forever if ever i work with them? will the license be revoked if i transfer to another airline company? i mean what is the classification of this? youve said that its a company-specific license… tell me how it works at your most available time. your reply would be much appreciated!

          Reply
          • Dear Ab Kat,

            Usually the airline companies asks you to sign a contract so you are tied to the airline as an employee. On the other hand, you are guaranteed tenure as a pilot!

            The airlines know that as soon as you gain enough flight hours, you would apply for an ATPL and also apply with another airline,so they would have you locked in with them for a number of years. The salary may be better with another company, but you can’t leave since the contract is still in force.

            But don’t despair. As with any job, the longer you stay, the better the benefits. And remember, if you’re finally finished your contract period, when you apply at another airline, you’ll start at zero again. Something to consider.

            I believe applicants for Ab Initio Training receive a monthly allowance, but according to my friend, this certain airline company tends to hold the allowance until the applicant passes the whole training phase and is employed as a First Officer before releasing the allowance. So make sure to have your own money to survive the training period! Good luck!

          • thank you very much for the reply.

            So this is basically like joining an airforce in which you are in tacked to serve the government for 10 years…….. But i have a question still. Would it still be better to consider that joining to this agreement will benefit someone also. I mean, if you are not financially-sustained, you can go to an agreement that is between the airline and you. Because at the end, you would still be a benefactory since you are gaining a flight hours while working with them ( as an MPL licence holder). And as soon as this contract ends, you can start at another airline company and get hired from the flight hours that you have gained while working from the past airline you served. I mean i’m seeing the good side of it. I dont know yet what is its bad side. I only see good in it. Do you think its good after all?

          • Dear Ab Kat,

            There is no currently conceivable, visible, obvious, clear, imminent, known, patent, conspicuous, distinct, marked, perceptible, or prominent downside to getting an MPL instead of an ATPL. It’s an offshoot of the shortage of pilots worlwide. Airline travel is quickly becoming the preferred method of transport for people and cargo, and more aircraft are being bought by the companies that fly said items.

            This new license category was created by the International Civil Aeronautics Organization to meet the demand, and also the regulations were adjusted to fit the requirement by reducing the required flight time to something similar to a Commercail Pilot’s License, and leaving the responsibility to the airline company to ensure that their pilot-applicant is well-versed in the aircraft that the company uses.

            You get an MPL, are hired by an airline company that trains you in the use of their planes, and pays you a salary when you become a First Officer. When your contract ends, you can apply in another company that uses the same kind of plane that you are used to flying. So, no real downside! Happy flying!

  119. Hi I’d just like to ask what they will be testing you in order to procure a Class 1 and Class 3 medical certificate. Like will they be testing your blood? Or x-rays?

    Reply
    • Dear Albert,

      To clarify, Class I Medical Certificates are required for Commercial Pilots, Multi-Crew Pilots, Airline Transport Pilots, Flight Engineers or Flight Navigators. Class 3 Medical Certicates are required for Air Traffic Controllers (now called Air Traffic Management Officers). Whereas Class 2 Medical Certificates are required for Student Pilots, Private Pilots, Flight Operations Officers and Glider Pilots.

      Medical requirements include the following:
      Chest x-ray
      Dental profile (Copy of dental record)
      Electrocardiogram interpretation with strip (the paper that came out of the machine)
      Refraction result (Eye exam)
      Audiometry result (Hearing test)
      Urinalysis (Lab test for infections in the body)
      Drug test (The same one for the driver’s license)
      Neuorpsychiatirc Exam

      Plus, of course, the NBI Clearance, NSO Birth Certificate, 2 pieces 1×1 ID picture. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  120. Hi captain!
    Im an EcE graduate and im planning to join the ATMO training of CAAP. Becoming a Pilot is my dream. I want to join the ATMO training this year so ill have knowledge on how pilots approach the runways. As a controller i will be trained and taught the different airways in the Philippines. And we all know that ATMO’s basic salary is 40k+ and maybe enough to finance my tuition when i enter flying school.

    Thank you for your pieces of advice on how to become a pilot. Ive learned a lot already. Im looking forward for my PPL. ??

    Reply
    • Dear Chiet,

      Good choice! Becoming an ATMO, or Air Traffic Management Officer (previously known as Air Traffic Controller, or the voice you hear when you contact the airport tower, otherwise known as God to the pilots) is an excellent way to learn about flight practices in the Philippines. And the salary would be enough for your tuition. Just save as much of it as you can, and never give up on your dream!

      See you in the clear skies!

      Reply
  121. To all of those people who are wondering where could they get a course which will direct them to being a Pilot, take a moment with this. PHILSCA -Villamor Air Base branch is offering BS in Air Transportation for those aspiring students who want to become a pilot. This is totally different with Aeronautical Engineering and Aircraft maintenance where its job is mainly on repairing an aircraft. This course is specially designed to take you up to be a pilot. It is a course aimed to produce large quantity of pilots enough to fill up the growing demand in aviation where many pilots would be needed in the next coming of generation. Its like a BS in Aviation Major in Flying in other other school.

    This school is a government-supported institution, the first 2 years expenses will be covered by the government-aid program (this is a newly-implemented rule by the Philippine Government where all state universities and state colleges around the PH have to cut their tuition fee down at zero cost. It means you only have to pay for the miscellaneous fee of the school.

    It is a 5 year course where the first 2 years will be covered by the government and the next 3 years is yours to pay. The 3 years is substantially for your flight training where you are expected to finish the PPL AND CPL course before the 5th year of the college comes. After this 5 year course, you are a PPL and CPL holder. This 3 years would obviously be costly for you since you have to pay for the plane rental yourself. But its worth the fee right? you’ve got 2 years to study for free and the next 3 years is yours to pay. you can make a savings for the first 2 years and use it for your flight training for the next 3 years. It is better than to be hopeless.
    Also, don’t be surprised about how high the cost of achieving this hundreds of flight hours is. You will not be forced to take the remaining time left for your flight training rapidly. You can simply say no to your instructor when you’ve got no money for a moment. You can instead tell the instructor to take the flight training when there is an available money to use. This is applicable in other school but not sure if PHILSCA allows it since im not yet on the level of obtaining my flight training. Im just about to start my college on them.

    But entering this school is not easy at all because there are hundreds of students who try their way in entering into this school because of its tuition-free program. You’ve gotta pass the exam they set on every applicants. Just study hard and make your dream your number one inspiration and the best will come to you. Its a big help for those people who are dreaming to become a Pilot. Hope this would help you.

    Reply
    • Dear Ab Kat,

      Congratulations on being accepted into PHILSCA! You are correct on many aspects, namely, it is difficult to enter PHILSCA due to the number of applicants and the exams are not easy. It is good that you reminded the readers of the the high cost of gaining flight hours. This tends to put off a lot of students, because they soon realize that to enter the major airlines, they have to spend even more just to become hired as a First Officer. However, with a Commercial Pilot’s License, they can already start getting paid to fly, and thus start recovering their expenses. CPL holders can be cargo, corporate, air charter/air taxi, aerial photographer, agricultural sprayer, air ambulance, and flight instructor pilots, just to name a few jobs available. And these jobs are available in the Philippines! Just imagine what you can do if you went abroad!

      Live the dream! Aim high, fly high!

      Reply
      • Good Afternoon, is BS in Air Transportation and BS Major in Flying the same? and I thought this course is 4 years? Is it 5 years for real in each school? Thank you 🙂

        Reply
        • Dear Layn Chris,

          BS in Air Transportation is an aviation-related management course, as in airport manager, or airport designer, or general aviation office manager. BS in Aviation Major in Flying is becoming a pilot. BS Air Trans is a 5 year course and BS Avia is a 4 year course.

          Reply
      • yes. with the new implemented law by our president, it is now possible to study free in state universities now. but some schools still impose their miscellaneous fee.

        Reply
    • Dear Mike,

      You will have to ask that question from PAL itself. It’s kinda expensive, I believe. And the process of application is rather stringent. But if you do pursue a flying career, it’s good to fly with PAL.

      Reply
  122. Sir may I ask,

    What is the contrast of becoming an airline pilot and becoming a commercial pilot? I just turned 15 this year and I am planning to be a female aviator. I don’t know if it will affect my dreams. And Sir, is it really true that there is a height requirement for being an aviator? In my case I’m about 4’10. I’m still struggling if I should take aviation as a course or pursue on different course instead and earn money and pay for my own needs since it’s alot of money and I don’t want my parents to be in such hesitation. Lastly Sir, does flight schools like accept scholars? Gratitude sir, I hope you notice this one and help a future-worried-girl-on-a-monday-night..

    Reply
    • Dear Simone,

      The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines’ regulations do not specify height requirements for pilots. Seat are adjustable, after all. If you really do wish to be an aviator, you can start learning to fly at 16 years of age. This is the minimum age requirement for Student Pilots. Tuition for a good flight school need not be expensive. Ask around, or search online for nearby flight schools. If you go to a classroom-type flight school, with a required syllabus, the cost might be a bit high, since the enrollment fee might have to be paid in full, up front. If you can find a non-structured flight school, or one that offers one-on-one training, it might be easier, since you can request for staggered payment, and class instruction depends on your availability as a student.

      And finally, to answer your first question, the main difference between an airline pilot and a commercial pilot is: not much. Airline Transport Pilot Licenses need more flight hours than Commercial Pilot Licenses, and airline pilots are usually airline employees, while commercial pilots can be freelance pilots or company pilots, or corporate pilots, or work as cargo plane pilots, or as agricultural pilots who fly spray planes.

      Don’t be held back by anything. Live your dreams!

      Reply
    • It can. It helps you introduce what flight is like. It gives you a little knowledge about what are the different things that are use in a flight. In short it prepares you to have a distinct knowledge when you are ready to fly an aircraft. Multiple flight simulators have been created. The most advance above all of the simulator is the one that is used in a flight school. However, counting the numbers of flight hours you have done in a simulator does not count to your real flight hours. Flight hours should be only achieved through the numbers of hour you stayed in air while driving a true aircraft. But overall, flight sim really does help one who has a passion in flying.

      Reply
    • Dear Lourden,

      A caveat: The flight simulators available in flight schools are usually a lot more sensitive than the actual flight controls. Computers are designed to react instantly, so the controls on flight sim games reflect instant results. Not so in the real world. All pilots that I’ve talked to about it say the same thing: flight sim controls are way too sensitive. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  123. Hi, I’m Joshua and I’m a senior high school student, I want to enroll at PHILSCA located at Clark, Pampanga. And my question is what are the requirements and courses to take up in college so that I can be a pilot?

    Reply
    • Dear Joshua,

      Using your favorite search engine, look for Bachelor of Science in Aviation Major in Flying. I looked up PHILSCA’s list of courses, and none offer actual flying. Sure, you can learn to fix airplanes, or maybe manage an airport, or work in a Control Tower, or handle aviation radio comms, but no pilot-related courses available. They do offer Certificates for Private Pilot/Commercial Pilot Course Instruction.

      Reply
    • Hello. Being a pilot doesn’t require to what course to be take. You can be a pilot as long as you are a degree holder from any course. But since you have affirmed that you’re planning to go to PHILSCA, any course there would guarantee you to have a chance to become a pilot. For example, you have decided to take AMT there and say you finish it. You can now then apply to a flight school where the pilot’s licences can be achieved. Piloting is like getting a car licence to be officially announced as a real driver. You’ve gotta pass each licences throughout the process. There are atleast 5-6 licenses to get you to an airline company and get hired as a Pilot. Going back, choices are yours to pick a course which will make you to be a Pilot. Just pick the one you think you are good at. Say for example you are good at mathematics then enroll to Aeronautical Engineering course. If you have good skills in technical then enroll to AMT. Just finish a degree then enter a flight school and complete all the requirements and licences to be a pilot

      Reply
  124. Hello! i just want to ask something about being a pilot.

    I have a question because i am very Confused 🙂 haha

    i read that to have the Commercial Pilot Licence you need 150 Flight hours… Right?
    and i read one of your replay said that “to become an Airline Transport Pilot, then the requirement is simple: Have at least 1,500 hours flying time.”

    So my question is what’s the Difference between the Commercial Pilot Licence Hours and the Airline Transport Pilot. because i want to be an airline pilot, and i will take Aircaft Maintenance Technology when i’m college.

    So i hope my message will be answerd… THANKS!

    Reply
    • Dear Ivan,

      First off, I want to congratulate you on asking questions, because if a person asks questions, he is a fool for a minute, while a person who doesn’t ask questions is a fool for a lifetime.

      The Commercial Pilot License allows you to get paid for your flights. You may carry passengers and/or cargo for a fee. And one of the requirements issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines is AT LEAST 150 hours flying time. Having a CPL is one advantage when applying for the airlines because this shows the company that you already have experience. You will stil have to take Ab Initio training, since a small single-engine or multi-engine aircraft is not a turbojet-powered aircraft.

      First of all, the wings on a small airplane are usually close to the front, where the engine is located, or where the pilot and passengers are placed. In a big airplane, the wings are located far from the pilot, and the engines are usually under the wings. Turboprops seat only a few, while turbojets seat a lot. Small airplanes usually have three wheels, while bigger planes have three sets of wheels. Ha ha ha ha ha!

      Actually, there’s a lot of differences beyond the obvious, but only pilots would be able to understand it completely, and becomes too technical to explain here. And the CAAP requires 1,500 flight hours as a requirement prior to getting your Airline Transport Pilot License. And no, unfortunately, the hours are not cumulative. You cannot add all your hours to total the requirements.

      To get your Private Pilot License, you need at least 40 hours flight time. Fly an additional 150 hours for your CPL. Fly a final 1,500 hours for your ATPL. Yup, becoming a pilot is expensive, and this is where it gets expensive: The accumulation of FLIGHT TIME. .

      For example, at the school where I learned to fly, the rental for a Cessna 150 is 7,500 pesos per hour, a Cessna 152 is 8,000 pesos per, a Cessna 172 is 12,500 per. So, just compute the cost. And I no longer know how much it costs for learning to fly with PAL or Cebu Pac. I believe Boeing has a flight school in Clark Air Base, and it costs about 5 million pesos for 6 months stay-in training. Mind you, verify this information, but it should help give you an idea. Oh, by the way, the Ground Instruction Course is also expensive. Again, as an example, my flight school charges 60,000 for Initial Ground Instruction prior to getting your Student Pilot License. After getting your flight hours and passing the CAAP exams, you get your PPL. Get your flight hours, then take up Instrument Rating Ground Instruction. 60k. Proceed to CPL Ground Instruction. Another 60,000 pesos. Get CPL after passing CAAP. Study Multi-Engine Rating. Lose yet another 60. Apply with PAL, Cebu Pac, Air Asia, Delta, United, Singapore Airlines, SilkAir, Virgin America, JAL, Korean Air, Aeroflot, CAL, British Airways, KLM, Icelandair, etc. Learn to fly turbojet airplanes. Get hired as a First Officer. Save as much of your salary as you can. Pay off the loan for all your flight costs. End of story!

      By the way, you probably cannot apply for El Al, Israel’s flag carrier. Security procedures are too stringent.

      P.S. If you want to take up Aircraft Maintenance Technology, this only means you get to fix the airplane, not fly it. Take up instead Bachelor of Science in Aviation Major in Flying, where you will be trained to actually fly. Remember, if you drive a car, it doesn’t mean that you have to know how to fix the car yourself. Same thing with airplane mechanics and pilots. Mechanics usually don’t fly the plane, and pilots usually don’t fix the planes.

      Reply
    • Dear Arjumeil,

      It depends. Where in the Phlippines do you live?

      Learning to fly is expensive, especially when you first enroll in a flight school. In the school I attended, I had to pay 60,000 pesos upfront This pays for the Ground Instruction, also known as ground school. I bought a Flight Kit for 30,000 pesos which already has the needed books, Flight Computer, Flight Plotter, Pilot’s Logbook, and a cool sling bag. 6.000 pesos for the aernautical maps of the Phlippines, and the cost of the needed medical exam results and other documents. Since Mactan Aviation Technology Center, Inc.’s main office is in Davao City, I got to have my ground school in my place of work, with the Ground Instructor (who happened to be a friend) coming over to teach me. I guess if you don’t have enough money outright, you can make a deal with the school, in that you don’t get to attend ground school this month since you have no budget yet, and maybe next time na lang, until such time that you finish the entire ground school course.

      After ground school, you’d have to buy an aircraft headset. Cost of this depends on brand, new or second hand, and shipping if you buy from abroad. And then you have to get your Flight Instruction Course, a.k.a. flight school. And this would cost per hour, and depends on the type of aircraft you fly. However, flight school is really flexible, as in you don’t have to fly every day if you don’t have the money.

      But, if you do become a pilot, all these expenses will be forgotten since flying is truly an experience, and if you are lucky enough, you can get hired by the airlines. Last time I checked, the world needed 640,000 pilots in the next 20 years. You might be needed to fill the gap.

      Reply
  125. Greetings! My name is Lance. I’m 17. It is my dream to become an airline Pilot. I have some questions to ask:

    1.) Do you need to have 20/20 vision to become one? My eyesight grade isn’t that high (125) but I’m afraid it might affect my chances of becoming one.

    2.) As of this moment, I am a Senior High student in a Medical School. I plan to take up Physical Therapy for college. Being a Physical Therapist is also one of my dreams. Would this be a good idea if I would become an airline pilot? Or would it be more sensible if I took up something like engineering? Does the course I take affect the chances of me becoming an airline pilot?

    3.) As young as I am now, how would you suggest I start on my journey on becoming a pilot? (My only experience is playing Flight Simulator X on my PC. Lol!)

    4.) What are the diseases or illnesses that airline companies not allow for one to become a pilot?

    5.) Does becoming a pilot involve a lot of complex mathematics? If not what do you need to specialize in order to become one?

    6.) What are the things I need to study before I take screening tests for flight academies?

    If you have anything more to share to me, or extra tips, please do share. It would be really appreciated. Thank you! 🙂

    Reply
    • Dear Lance,

      I’ll try to answer your questions as best as I can.

      1. My eyesight is 1.5 or 150 (I’m not really sure about these numbers) and I use reading glasses while filling up the Flight Plan, What’s important is being able to differentiate between colors.

      2. Airlines require an applicant to be a graduate of ANY 4-year course.

      3. Playing Flight Sim X is actually a very good idea. Instrument Rating is a course that uses flight simulators to practice dangerous flight conditions in the safety of the ground, and an Instrument Rating is one requirement for becoming a Commercial Pilot.

      4. As for diseases, you’ll be getting a medical exam every year anyway, even as a Student Pilot, so that early, you’ll know if you can become a pilot or not. But according to Civil Aviation Authority of the Phliippines regulations, as long as the illness will not affect the pilot’s ability to fly the aircraft, then it is allowable. But good health is better, of course.

      5. Thankfully flying an airplane does not involve complex mathematics. I simply abhor math, so that’s good. It’s more of management of your resources when you fly: how much fuel onboard, the weight of airplane and passengers and fuel, the horsepower of your engine, the outside weather conditions, the velocity of the wind, the distance to the nearest emergency landing area, the compass heading you are flying, etc. What is more important is 360 degree situational awareness.

      6. Believe it or not, this is the most important question of all, although probably not in the way you think. What you need to study is actually the reputation of the flight school. First of all, check out CAAP Accredited Flight Schools list of schools in your area. Second, try to find reviews from student pilots who attended that flight school. Most importantly, ask questions. Most flight schools appear to be cheaper, but then hit you with hidden charges that, at the end of the course, add up more than the other school that you were choosing between. At times, the more “professional-looking” school is not ideal since they are too rigid or too expensive or have hidden charges, while the “cheap-looking” school really is honest about their flight charges and ground course expenses. Be certain before you commit.

      And lastly, don’t be intimidated by the cost of learning to fly. Yes, it can be expensive. But then again, how much do you think it cost to send you through school? How about your vaccinations as a baby? The cost of your diapers? Your clothes? It’s all relative. See it as an investment. What do you gain for what you paid? Remember, you will be learning a skill that may one day save lives. So when the flight attendant asks on the PA system, “Does anyone here know how to fly a plane?” you might be the only one who raises a hand! Good luck!

      Reply
  126. Greetings! Currently I am a senior high student and I am interested becoming a commercial pilot. Though as of now I don’t have the budget needed in order to enroll nor buy things needed for flying. As I scroll through the comments, it is really expensive becoming a pilot. But is it possible becoming one while learning slowly while saving up my allowance just take the next step or level in training? Like for example in ppl course, you need 40hrs in flying. And then while taking college ill save up my allowance just to take the training 2hrs or 4hrs a month. 2×12=22hrs so in 2years I can pass the the first step. It may be slow but is it possible? And is that also be possible in ground instruction? 95k all at once is a lot considering our financial status. Plus in this way it is a win/win situation because while I am studying my bs degree I am also doing my training in flying an aircraft.

    Sorry for the long comment. I am just trying to explain my point. I hope someone can clarify my concern. Thank you and more power!

    Reply
    • Dear Lance,

      Yes, it is expensive. I took up ground school and flight school in Mactan Aviation Technology Center, Inc., and the breakdown is something like this:
      Submission of medical requirements – depends. You’ll need the ff:
      1. Chest x-ray – no lung problems
      2. Dental profile – record of your dental condition
      3. Electrocardiogram with strip – no heart problems
      4. Refraction – eye exam, with ability to distinguish colors. Corrective glasses are allowed.
      5. Urinalysis – no infections in the body
      6.Drug test – “I HATE DRUGS!”
      7. Neuropsychiatric exam – I believe this is for those below 16 years of age when they enroll. If you have a driver’s license I don’t think they need this anymore. But you have to check with the school to be certain
      8. Audiometry exam – ear exam to check for hearing and balance problems
      9. NBI Clearance
      10. Copy of NSO Birth Certificate
      Ground school for Student Pilot License – 60,500 pesos
      Pilot’s Kit (books, pilot’s logbok, E6B Flight Computer, Navigational Plotter, bag) – 30,000 pesos
      World Aeronautcal Maps of the Philippines – 6,000 pesos
      Airplane rental (depends on aircraft type), per hour – 8,000 pesos (C150) or 8,500 pesos (C152) or 12,500 (C172)
      Minimum of 40 hours required for Private Pilot License
      Minimum of 150 hours required for Commercial Pilot LIcense
      Instrument Rating Ground Instruction required for Commercial Pilot License
      NTC exams for Restricted Radio Operator’s License (Aircraft)
      Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines knowledge exams (10 subjects, at most 3 exam subjects per day)
      Cost of staying in or flying in to Manila to take exam

      All in all, a cool 1,700,000+ pesos. And that, my friends, is a lot of money. Even for a rich man.

      BUT

      Is it worth it?

      If it’s your dream, yes. It’s a skill that no one can take away from you. And when you achieve the Commercial Pilot’s License, you can now get PAID TO FLY! Maybe not as much as an Airline Pilot gets paid, but at least you get paid! And that helps to defray expenses.

      The real cost is in building up the flight hours. That will eat up a LOT of your budget. But nobody said you have to rush things, right? Take your time, pay your own way, build up your flight time, learn from other pilots, fly along with others (this also counts toward your flight time) and work hard to make money to pay for the flight time.

      In flight schools, everything should be flexible. Don’t go for the rigid instruction type of ground school. Find one similar to MATCI’s method: one-on-one or according to your availability. This means you don’t have to pay everything up front, giving you time to resolve your budget.

      There really is no rush to flying. It’s just like learning to drive. As a matter of fact, I wanted to learn to fly since I was in high school, about 30 years ago. I started learning to fly 3 years ago. I am still a Student Pilot, since I only fly on Sundays when the weather is good. I’ve been saving up since I started working as dentist, and now am realizing my dream. So, no, it’s never too late!

      Reply
  127. Hi Im grade 10 and I’m 18 but I’m dreaming that I will become a pilot soon but can I still a pilot if my Track on SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL is ABM?
    #NEVERSTOPDREAMING

    Reply
    • Dear Norsaif Labe,

      That really depends on your dedication and, unfortunately, amount of money. At your age, you can already start learning to fly airplanes, since the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines requires Student Pilots to be at least 16 years old.

      But if your ultimate goal is to become an Airline Transport Pilot, then the requirement is simple: Have at least 1,500 hours flying time, and an Airline Transport Pilot’s License, and a Bachelor’s Degree holder of ANY four-year course.

      This is very simplified, of course, but those are the requirements that airline companies in the Philippines require. I cannot confirm it, but if I am not mistaken, that is generally the same requirements for airline pilots worldwide.

      To give a bit of background, airline companies, governments, and other people dealing with airlines have to meet the standards set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization, a United Nations agency involved in the standardization of flight rules, procedures and practices. It’s all about safety of flight, by the way.

      Remember this, though. Commitment in everything you do is most important. You may want to fly only as a private pilot (not paid to fly) or as a commercial pilot (paid to fly) or as a flight instructor (paid to teach and fly) or as an airline transport pilot (paid to drive a flying bus).

      You know what? Research. Learn everything you can (there is a LOT of information on the Internet; use it) about becoming a pilot, and the pros and cons of each aspect. It’s not easy, nor is it inexpensive. But, if you do pursue this goal, and start flying in an actual single-engine airplane, then you’ll realize that the cost was worth it! And as private pilot, you can bring friends and family with you as you fly, working your way slowly to the required minimum number of flight hours. Good luck!

      Reply
  128. Greetings!

    I am planning to enroll in AAG’s Airline Pilot Program. It was indicated in their brochure that by the end of the training, I would have obtained an A320 type rating. I am just curious whether First officers with A320 type-rating are still in demand nowadays knowing that most airlines now use A330 or some other new model of planes. (Or is my A320 type-rating also applicable for the new models?) If not, how can I qualify as an airline pilot without spending extra money apart from my training in AAG. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Dear Archi Graduate,

      Having an A320 type rating simply means that you’ll be allowed to fly, whether as the co-pilot (First Officer) or pilot-in-command (Captain) of an Airbus airliner. Type ratins are required for pilots to act as PIC of aircraft with a maximum gross take off weight that exceeds 12,500 pounds and turbojet-powered aircraft. As to whether there is a demand for A320-type rated pilots since most airliners us the newer models, think about this: Would you be able to drive a 2.0 liter Toyota if you only learned to drive a 1.3 liter Toyota?

      That is the essence of a type rating.

      Many commercial aircraft share type ratings, in that you are allowed to fly Boeing and Airbus aircraft with the same type rating on your license, albeit with a bit of additional training since the cockpit configurations could be different for each aircraft, much like the dashboards of different brand automobiles are similar but not exactly the same.

      Pilots with the ATPL are very much in demand worldwide, and most airline companies seem to prefer Filipino pilots for some reason or another. My thoughts on that is because we have MANY types of airfields and runways, some well-maintained, others no more than a strip of dirt with no trees within a few feet of the edges, and other runways just meeting the bare minimums to be called an airport runway. Variety of experience is what appeals to airline companies, I guess. Learning to land an airplane on a smooth, long runway is easy. Landing on a potholed runway barely wide enough for the wheels and with a cliff at the end of the runway is the real challenge.

      Reply
  129. May I ask if there’s any height requirement needed to the said course? Are trainees or students allowed to wear contact lense in case they don’t the pass eye tests? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Dear ZJ,

      PAL has a mimimum height requirement of 5’5″ for pilot-applicants. And pilots have to have 20/20 vision, although corrective lenses are allowed.

      The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines requires that all pilots should meet the Visual Acuity Test and Color Perception requirements to be given a Class 1 Medical Certificate. This is required for Commercial Pilots and Airline Transport Pilots. Otherwise, the pilot would be limited to a Class 2 Medical Certificate, for daytime flight only.

      If you are worried about your eyes, get an eye exam. This is one of the requirements anyway, so might as well find out just how bad your eyes are. But to give you an idea, I’m already 48 years old as of this writing, and wear reading glasses, and I still got my Student Pilot’s LIcense, and now working on my Private Pilot’s License requirements. I have no desire to be an airline pilot, and my first flight instructor was older than me, had a heart condition that he took meds for, and after taking some natural food supplements, passed the medical exam and is now an agricultural pilot flying spray planes! I think he is earning about 150,000 pesos a month, for 2 to 3 hours of work a day. An airline pilot earns about 157,000 pesos a month.,

      Reply
      • Thanks sir, may I add if what field or subject does it focus more on? Physics? math? of course we can never deny the fact that it’s difficult, or is it really? I hope you don’t mind, sir. Thanks a lot anyways.

        Reply
        • Dear ZJ,

          Believe it or not, flying an aircraft does not focus on any particular field! In the same way that driving a car does not focus on algebra, in that if a car travels eastward at 50 kph, and another car travels westward at…..

          Flying an aircraft is simply the safe and proper manipulation of the available methods of controlling the vehicle in a three-dimensional space, using visual or instrument panel reference with relation to the vehicle’s attitude, position and location within that space.

          Acting as a pilot of an airplane means that the person using the throttle, rudder and the yoke is able to safely move the airplane up, down, sideways and forward in the air, and looking outside the window at the ground or sea or looking inside at the instruments to see if the airplane is upright or leaning on its side.

          If you wish to take up aircraft design, then some engineering-related course would be best. Howeverr, you must remember that aircraft ENGINEERS rarely, if ever, fly the aircraft they design or build. They rely on PILOTS to fly their designs. Aircraft engineers/designers get to work for NASA, Boeing, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Cessna, Beechcraft, Bell, etc. while pilots get to work for PAL, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, Zest Air, etc.

          And learning to fly is NOT difficult at all! Learning to drive is more difficult. Why? Because when you learn to fly, there’s nobody else up there who might hit you. Also, ALL pilots are professionals who actually learned to fly from a Flight Instructor and had to take exams to get their pilot’s license. And the most important factor ingrained into each pilot’s mind is safety. Everything in flying is about safety, so the next time you take a plane going somewhere and the flight is delayed, don’t complain. It’s for safety reasons. And there is only one problem with learning to fly.

          It is expensive.

          Reply
          • That helped a lot, sir. Thank you, sir. I commend your dedication answering everyone’s questions and trying your best to explain it completely and on point, sir. Have a good day.

  130. Good Day Capt.

    I had graduated with Bachelor’s Degree in Management but I had failing grades on my records can I still persue my dream of becoming a pilot?

    Can I also ask about your flight school, where school did you study and what course? And estimated tuition fee Thank you so much!

    Reply
    • Dear John,

      You are allowed a maximum of 5 failing grades for the whole degree, if you wish to apply with Philippine Airlines. I don’t know about the other airlines.

      Assuming that you wish to pursue a career as an airline pilot. You can always pursue other avenues, as soon as you get you Commercial Pilot’s License, which means you get paid to fly planes. To get a CPL, you need to accumulate 250 flight hours as Pilot-In-Command while under your Private Pilot’s License, which you get after flying 40 hours as PIC while receiving flight instruction under your Student Pilot’s License.

      To get an SPL, enroll in a flight school. You can either get a classroom type of setup, with the uniforms and the IDs and the classmates, or a more informal setup which can be one-on-one or tailored to your work schedule, if any.

      Cost for Ground School was about 100,000 pesos. Flight School was about 600,000 pesos. Don’t be intimidated by the cost. There are a LOT of variables that you can adjust so the cost would either be: 1) affordable, or 2) light on your budget.

      I studied with Mactan Aviation Technology Center, Inc. to learn to fly. I bet it would surprise you to know that I am actually an almost-50 year old dentist who recently decided to take up flying to fulifill a childhood dream. Age is important if you plan to make a career as an airline pilot. It’s not as important if you just want to learn a valuable skill, and explore the islands of our great nation.

      Everything looks different from a small plane’s perspective, trust me. My friend who flies for Cebu Pacific even asked me to fly with him in a Cessna since he misses the experience.

      Reply
  131. Hi! This thread has been super helpful! The thought of going to flying school has been buzzing in my mind for months now. Since im an architect and a real estate broker i really have no idea what i need to do and what are the pre-requisites for getting into flying school. I already read endless number of blogs and websites about it but this thread really answered most of the questions I have,

    Im trying to get into PAL flying school, I have questions tho. Getting into PAL av is hard, so ive read. Competition is cut-throat, Im just curious because i called their office and they told me they already have more than a hundred applicants for this year’s batch,

    Well my questions are, since they are selecting the best of the best, will they be bias towards picking engineers than other professions, since engineers are the closest to what pilots are (in my understanding and viewpoint since i really have no idea) and is having good TEETH and GOOD PHYSICAL APPEARANCE an advantage (i mean come on, lets not be hypocrites, some companies really have this on their criteria upon hiring employees) I just figured that since PAL is the country’s flagbearer, they may want someone with a nice set of teeth (i have a missing tooth already) and someone with a well toned body.

    Reply
    • Dear ArchBrok,

      PAL is the Philippines’ flag carrier, and yes, they require their employees to have GOOD TEETH and GOOD PHYSICAL APPEARANCE, for their FLIGHT ATTENDANTS! These and other company frontliners MUST be good-looking. Everybody else can look like normal people. (LOL!)

      Seriously, though, if you are really interested in pursuing a career as an airline pilot, start by learning how to fly. Baby steps. Inquire about the tuition for learning to fly from a reputable flight school (type “Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines Accredited Flight Schools” in your favorite search engine) and the requirements for enrollment. If the flight school has a website, check everything. And check out the comments on this page to get an idea of what’s required. Your question is frequently asked, so those should have been answered already, or at least, will give you an idea of what other questions you need to ask.

      For example, PAL’s Ab Initio Course is the same sort of training you can get from ANY other flight school. If you learn to fly from another school, then you can apply as an airline pilot for any other airline operating in the Philippines! Don’t be afraid, the training is the same. What is really required is the minimum required number of flight hours before you can even apply for an airline transport pilot’s license, which you have to get from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. Just like when you took exams to get your Architect’s license and Real Estate Broker’s license from the Professional Regulation Commission, you have to get your pilot’s license (Student Pilot-Private Pilot-Commercial Pilot-Instrument Rating-Multi Engine Rating-Airline Transport Pilot license) from CAAP.

      Don’t worry. As long as you are healthy, have good eyesight and deep pockets, you can become an airline pilot. If you don’t have deep pockets, borrow money. If you become an airline’s First Officer, your investment for flying can be paid off in about two or three years. If you want to become a physician, your investment can be paid off in about 12 years.

      Lots of luck, and live your dreams!

      Reply
  132. Hi Capt.
    Hi have question, I graduated BSBA major in Operations Management, can I become a pilot despite of my degree? If yes, what’s the first step to do? from Philippines. Thank You!

    Reply
    • Dear Nam,

      You have to quantify your question; Do you want to be a pilot? Sure! Learning to fly is just like learning to drive a car. But becoming a professional driver is a different story.

      Having said that, if your desire is to be an airline pilot, one requirement is you have to have any four-year Bachelor’s Degree. And the first step is to learn how to fly a small airplane. Enroll in a reputable flight school, or even a hangar for one-on-one instruction, and build up your flight time. I only fly on Sundays because I work weekdays, and will soon be taking the Private Pilot’s License exam in Manila sometime this year, as soon as I finish with all the remaining requirements. And I’m a 48-year-old dentist! Started flight school two years ago, although I have no desire to fly airliners. I just love flying planes.

      Reply
  133. I really want to know what’s the most possible way to become a commercial pilot here in the Philippines, If you have much time please answer my questions. I’m currently a grade 9 student, WHAT STRAND SHOULD I GET FOR SENIOR HIGHSCHOOL? then after I graduated senior high WHAT COURSE SHOULD I TAKE AT COLLEGE THAT INCLUDES GROUND SCHOOL FOR PILOTING? after graduating college CAN I ALREADY MOVE ON TO A PILOT SCHOOL AND START MY TRAINING? To complete the flight hours, HOW MANY HOURS DO I NEED TO FLY TO BECOME A COMMERCIAL PILOT, IS IT PRIVATE PILOT(40hrs) + COMMERCIAL PILOT (250hrs)= 290hrs OF FLYING or JUST 250hrs WHICH INCLUDES THE 40hrs of the PRIVATE PILOT?AFTER GETTING MY FLIGHT HOURS DONE AM I ALLOWED TO APPLY FOR AIRLINE COMPANIES? AND WHAT SCHOOL IS THE BEST TO STUDY COLLEGE WITH GROUND SCHOOL OF PILOTING? AND WHATS THE BEST PILOT SCHOOL? And HOW MUCH IS THE TOTAL EXPENSES FROM COLLEGE TO GRADUATING AS A COMMERCIAL PILOT. please correct me if I’m wrong. THANK YOU

    Reply
    • Dear Ella,

      Airline companies require applicants to be a Bachelor’s Degree holder of ANY 4-year course. As for learning to fly, you can start right now. Minimum age is 16 years old, good eyesight and good health required.

      Here’s how it goes:
      Step 1: Enroll
      Step 2: Get Ground Instruction (Introduction to flight dynamics, weather, parts of an airplane, etc.) and when you’ve passed the course,
      Step 3: Get Class 2 Medical Certificate from CAAP Flight Surgeon and apply for Student Pilot’s License.
      Step 4: Begin Flight Instruction, and start flying. As soon as you’ve accumulated the required number of flight hours (minimum 40 hrs)for Private Pilot’s License.,
      Step 5: Take exams in CAAP for PPL.
      Step 6: With your PPL, start accumulating flight hours (minimum 250 hrs) for the Commercial Pilot’s License.
      Step 7: With your CPL, get Instrument Rating, then Multi-Engine Rating, and the flight hours (minimum 1,500 hrs) for Airline Transport Pilot’s License.

      Of course, this is not everything. There are exams for each license, and many requirements to get, and the cost of flight hours to consider. But the upside is, even on a First Officer’s (the person on the right side of the cockpit when you enter the airliner) salary, your total flight investment can get paid off in about two to three years’ time, whereas if you chose to be a physician, your investment can be returned in about twelve or so years. Hope this puts everything into perspective!

      Reply
  134. Hi! I just graduated, I took up BS Tourism Management. Is it possible for me to become a pilot? I wanna know more about the steps to take to become one. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Yes, you can. BS Tourism Management is a four-year course, which is a requirement for becoming an airline pilot. Of course, you still have to work hard on getting a pilot’s license. For more info on this, go to Caap and scroll down to Part 2.3.3 PILOT LICENSES, INSTRUMENT AND INSTRUCTOR RATINGS and just below that is 2.3.3.1 STUDENT PILOTS and read the document down from there. This government document contains all the requirements needed by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to allow you to become a student pilot..

      Now, the reality: How long before you become an airline pilot? First, you have to enroll in a flight school. Find one that offers lessons in FLYING airplanes instead of REPAIRING airplanes or some other kind of airplane related course. THIS IS NOT FLYING. Learning to fly involves Ground School, which is expensive up front, since you have to buy the books, enroll in a class (or one-on-one instruction) for learning the dynamics of flight and maneuvering an aircraft in the air, understanding weather and when not to fly, and other regulations for safe flight. After taking Ground School and passing the exams for each subject, you are then eligible to apply for a Student Pilot’s License and attend Flight School, where you will finally sit in a small (usually two-seater) high-wing airplane with a flight instructor on your right side, while you will see an airplane’s cockpit instruments in front of you. From here on, you pay for each flying hour with your instructor beside you, until you gain the skill to fly by yourself, before taking the exams (written/multiple choice on a computer screen and practical/flying an airplane with a CAAP Flight Examiner) in CAAP head office in the Manila International Airport for your private pilot license. After flying enough hours, you then apply for your Commercial Pilot’s License, with the requisite exams again at CAAP. Then when you get your Commercial Pilot’s License, you can then apply with one of the airlines to start your career to becoming an airline pilot.

      Does it seem like a lot? Not really, Only you need a lot of time to fly the required minimum number of hours, and the money to pay for the hours of flight time. Of course, as soon as you get your Commercial Pilot’s License, you can get paid to fly for hire, which helps to defray flight expenses.

      I just passed my minimum 40 hours flight time for Private Pilot, and will soon apply for the National Telecommunications Commission’s Restricted Radio Operator’s License for Airmen, one of the licenses needed (renewable every few years) to become a pilot in the Philippines. Aside from my Class II Airman Medical Certificate and English Language Proficiency License, and currently Student Pilot’s License. Good luck! 😉

      Reply
      • Hi and Greetings!. Capt. Enrique. I have a question about entering Air Force as an alternative way to becoming a Pilot. Do you know more about this? Is this a good strategy other than taking a direct course for becoming a Pilot. I only knew that there would be a contract signed by you and the government that you shall work with them for 10 years. But in that whole time, you will get to paid each service you do for them. Also they give allowances to each officer. I thought of this as a good one but im still not sure. It has pros and cons at each side. If you have better understanding than me on this could u please give some additional information.

        Reply
        • Dear Ab Kat,

          Entering the Philippine Air Force is a great way to learn how to fly! You sign up, they teach you how to fly, and you get to do it for free! And they pay you a salary also as an Air Force pilot. Seems like a good idea!

          The downside is, if combat occurs in the Philippine islands, then you’ll be flying into areas where people will also be shooting at you. And that is not the kind of career one contemplates. Besides, I’ve heard from Air Traffic Controllers that they dislike military pilots because according to the ATCs, those pilots don’t really know the radio phraseology nor the proper procedures for operating in civilian airports. Military pilots are more direct in their training, since time is crucial (as in life or death) so they tend to shortcut a lot of procedures. That’s fairly unsafe, but then, considering what they do is unsafe as it is, it doesn’t matter for them.

          Civilian pilots, on the other hand, have to consider safety as a priority. We follow safety checklists and safety protocols and safety procedures like our lives depend on it, because, they do. Whether you fly as a private pilot or an airline pilot, safety is of utmost importance. And the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has a lot of guidelines regarding proper safety procedures, which all civilian pilots have to follow, to the letter. Military pilots fall under the Department of National Defense, while the CAAP and civilian pilots are under the Department of Transportation, so procedures are slightly different.

          The cost of learning to fly, and for the minimum required flight hours to be able to get hired as a First Officer means it will take about two years for you, on your First Officer’s salary to recover the total cost. For a physician, it takes about 12 years. Do the math. Enjoy flying!

          Reply
    • You can still become a pilot even if you choose any academic track. Applicants for student pilots should not be less than 16 years of age, can read, speak and understand English, and hold a Class 2 Medical Certificate. To start, apply in either a flying school for formal training, or get ground school instruction at a fixed base operator, or flight hangar that offers instruction. I got my instruction from Mactan Aviation Technology Center, Inc., and have started working on my flight hours for private pilot requirements, namely, a MINIMUM of 40 hours flight time, 5 hours of which should be in a flight simulator or flight procedures trainer. Sim games on a laptop do not count. It has to been done in an actual Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines accredited flight simulator, usually found in flight schools. You can also enroll just for flight simulator training in a flight school, instead of taking the whole course from the school. Of course, you will have to learn to fly solo, or without an instructor beside you in the airplane. One segment of solo flight will have to done cross-country, or a total of 250 km distance. After completing your flight time requirement, a computerized multiple choice exam will have to be taken and passed before you are issued your Private Pilot License, which will allow you to fly a small airplane all by yourself, or with passengers, but only for fun and not for a salary or for hire. To get paid to fly, you need a Commercial Pilot License, which is a slightly different story. Just work on getting your Student Pilot License first. Everything else will flow from there.

      It will take a lot of commitment, patience, courage, skill and money to become a pilot, but when you do, you will join a community of people the likes of which you will not find anywhere else. Flying is not a natural thing, but we choose to fly, for the sheer pleasure of it, which most other people will find intimidating. It is up to us to fly them safely. That is our responsibility. Good luck!

      Reply
    • Hi Dane, yes you can. The degree course is not important as after your degree your pilot license will be the important factor for the Airlines.

      Reply
      • Dane, you have to qualify your question. Do you wish to be a Private Pilot, a Commercial Pilot, an Airline Transport Pilot, or a Helicopter Pilot?

        Student pilots cannot fly with passengers.
        Private pilots can fly passengers but cannot be paid for flying them around.
        Commercial pilots can fly passengers and cargo and get paid for flying.
        Airline Transport pilots are hired by airline companies as employees.
        Helicopter pilots can fly rotary-wing aircraft.

        BUT…

        Flying an aircraft is just like driving a car: You don’t really need a degree to do it. If you want to be an Airline Transport Pilot, then a four-year Bachelor’s Degree is a requirement. Hope this helps!

        Reply
    • Ralph, you can become a pilot even if you don’t take up Aircraft Maintenance Technology. Being an airplane mechanic is different from being an airplane driver. But if you own your own airplane, then having a degree in Aircraft Maintenance Technology is an advantage because you won’t have to hire someone to fix your airplane!

      For additional information, read the comments above. I hope you’ll find the answer you were looking for, or at least a better understanding of what it needs to become a pilot. Good luck!

      Reply
  135. Hi Sir! I’m Gabrielle and I want to pursue a career in aviation. I want to be a piLot but i don’t know where to start and I need your help. I’m currently a Senior High School student graduating this april and i want to prepare for my career in college.

    Reply
    • Greetings Gabriel!. As for students like you who have no ideas on where to start, you could do researches on your own. Doing research by your own totally makes you to understand what and how to evaluate information via internet in regards to aviation. But I can give you start-up for your question. Here’s the thing I knew right now.

      There have been selected schools that offers the best among any other schools. Choice is yours when you have finally done doing your research about picking up the good one. There are many choices on how to become a pilot. First, getting a course which directs you to flying- “BS in Aviation Major in Flying”. Second, getting any course that has a connection to aviation industry like BS in Aircraft Maintenance, BS in Aeronautical Engineering, BS in Aviation Management and etc. That will enable you to have a chance to work as a Pilot. Now, there’s an advantage when picking up BS in Aviation Major in Flying. It will give you a sophisticated background information which you can use when applying through different airline company since some of them gave high appreciation to applicants with having the said course ( BS in Aviation Major in Flying). Thus, taking this course means you are fully-centered in the knowledge of Flying as it is displayed in the course’s name itself. It is a 4 year degree which cover the lesson every student pilot needs to learn and as well as the so-called “flight training” which indeed the most costly above any other fees when taking this course. All in all is just fitted in 4 years only. But it doesn’t mean that after finishing this course will allow you to be a pilot in any airline company, there are some training you must need to undergo to be qualified as a real-world pilot. However you could be a pilot even though you are a graduate of any aviation courses. But it will take you more years to become one.

      Taking BS in Aviation Major in Flying is costly than taking any other course in Aviation Industry. There are only some advantage the BS in Aviation Major in Flying has than any other course since it is fully-centered in flying and attracts airline company in which you can be treated as first choice when the time come you are applying through different companies.

      For further information you might ask, here’s my email. Don’t hesitate to tell me since I know the feeling of what you have been feeling right now. I was also once in your place at the very start I did my research on this. But doing research made me to know information I didn’t know at first. Im also a grade 12 student and is inline to finish senior high school on this coming april of next year, 2018. Also wanted to become a Pilot someday. Make sure you have a good performance in school you are currently studying right now. A man with a knowledge literally takes place above any other.

      Greetings again!

      Reply
      • Hi I am also a senior high student and under the STEM strand. May I ask how much is the estimated tuition in flight schools? thank you.

        Reply
        • Hi Linda,

          The Tution fee depends on the Pilot School you pick, as the different schools are in different locations and use different equipment. If you want to become an Airline Pilot you will have to have a Bachelors degree as well (this can be any course though). Some Flight schools offer degree programs combined with Pilot Training. Another feature is that some flight schools offer financing programs so that the overall cost should not be the decision factor. The key questions should always be the safety record of the school and the number of graduates it has that are now flying with Airlines.

          A good place to see all pilot training schools is

          Reply
        • Dear Linda,

          I paid 95,000 pesos for the Ground Instruction lessons, the reading materials package, and the aviation maps. After getting the required medical exams, I received my Student Pilot’s License and Class II Medical Certificate from CAAP, and started Flight Instruction lessons. The airplanes are usually Cessna 152 (two-seater) or Cessna 172 (four-seater). I chose the 172 so my wife could tag along. In my flight school, the cost of flying per hour in the 172 is 12,500 pesos and the 152 is 7,500 pesos. A Private Pilot License requires a minimum of 40 hours flight time = 500,000 pesos. In the 152 = 300,000 pesos. BUT…. you don’t have to cash out immediately. Flight instruction is a maximum of 2 hours each time. The Cessna 152/172 carry a load of 4 hours worth of fuel, so a safety margin of two hours flying, in case your destination airport is closed due to bad weather, and you have to fly to an alternate airport to land.

          To be more concrete about the costs, roughly:
          Initial cost upon enrollment (negotiable) 100,000 pesos.
          Flight time cost for PPL requirement, in Cessna 152: 300,000 pesos
          Flight time cost for Commercial Pilot License (250 hours): 1, 875,000 pesos
          Flight time cost for Airline Transport Pilot License (1,500 hours) : 11,250,000 pesos
          Total cost learning to fly to becoming First Officer in major airline: 13,525,000 pesos
          First Officer monthly salary, average: 180,000 pesos
          Number of years to recover the 13 million pesos on a First Officer’s salary only: 6 years.

          If you think that is a lot of money, ask your parents how much do they think they have spent for your tuition from kindergarten to senior high.

          Pursuing a career in aviation is a noble pursuit. And cheaper than trying to become a physician! Good luck!

          Reply
  136. Shame? I really want to become a pilot since I was little. I’m currently in my 3rd year of college, in a course that has nothing to do with aviation or anything (Radiologic Technology). I plan to study and train as a pilot after I graduate but I guess it would be a rough ride. I want to be strong to achieve my dream but I guess I’ve already taken the wrong path and it’s too late to go back.

    Reply
    • Greetings Sheena!
      Well, its not too late at all!. As for you to know, there are many pilots out there who have the same situation as you but successfully became a pilot through the days. If you really wanted to become a pilot, you are still have a potential to fly an aircraft that you had been dreaming since you were a child. Here’s my tip. Its not in what course you are studying right now, its the passion that makes you wanted to fly an aircraft. Becoming a pilot dont require any courses the student had taken.. Whether you are a graduate of any course, you are still entitled to fly an aircraft!. First thing you need to do is to get a Private Pilot License and have it passed by taking the exam. In there, you can fly an aircraft on your own and enjoy what aviation can brings to you. It will cost you high since it involves using a plane. There you can achieve what your ultimate goal is, to fly an aircraft. But to be honest, there are some limitations subjected into people like you. As far as my knowledge goes, it will be a hard thing for you to become an airline pilot (if you want to pursue your pilot career) since the course you have finished is far different from the perspective any airline pilot must have. But, you can still fly an aircraft though, (but with some limitations).
      If you really wanted to become an airline pilot, you should have picked aviation courses at the very start. But I bet you have a deeper reason why you ended up being a radtech student and there’s nothing I can do with your decisions in life. Hope you’re doing great with your life along with your current course :).
      Its never too late Sheena! If you really wanted, there’s a way!
      Greetings again!

      Reply
    • Dear Sheena,

      Actually, the airlines will accept ANY 4-year Bachelor’s Degree as a prerequisite for becoming an Airline Transport Pilot. In fact, working as a Radiologic Technologist(?) will help you defray expenses for flight school. Learning to fly is just like learning to drive: No educational background required! Just have the money, the drive, and the professionalism to follow the safety checklists, and pretty soon you’ll be saying. “PAL Heavy, cleared for takeoff.”

      Good luck!

      Reply
  137. Hi! Is it ok to take BS AeroE then go to a flying school after getting a bachelors degree. Is the engineering license can be an advantage?

    Reply
    • Dear Rhovie,

      Sadly, no. It is not an advantage if you want to be a pilot. Aeronautical Engineering deals with making things that fly, like airplanes, space shuttles, satellites, missiles, rocket booster, etc. Flying is simply driving in three dimensions. You don’t need to know how the car is built to be able to drive it.

      BUT

      If it is a 4-year Bachelor’s Degree, then you’ll need it to become an Airline Transport Pilot, since that is one of the requirements. Good luck!

      Reply
  138. Dear Sir,

    My son has just obtained his Aviation Mechanic/Aircraft Maintenance license. Now he is undergoing 6 month training on Metal Sheet Rating and Power Plant. His dream is to become a professional pilot. Is his license an advantage for him when he proceeds the PPL then CPL training?

    Thanks.

    Ernesto

    Reply
    • Greetings Ernesto!
      Anyone who wish to become a pilot has to undergo these steps. Taking SPL, PPL, CPL, IR, ME and ATP are basically the steps that one has to undergone to become an airline pilot. As for your question, your son’s achievement from his mechanical career has nothing to do when it comes to the advantages you are referring about. Those licenses or steps into becoming a pilot require a sophisticated skills to pass them. Its about the knowledge of the student, not from what he had achieved before. But it is advantage that he has deep knowledge in mechanical concepts compared to other students who are taking the same test. It will help him to pass the exam because of his background knowledge in mechanical concepts. Thank You!

      Reply
    • Dear Ernesto,

      Sadly, getting instruction to be a mechanic is not the same as being able to fly the plane he works on. It would be an advantage for him if he owns his own plane! No need to get a licensed mechanic to repair or modify or replace anything on his plane, because to change/repair any engine or major airplane part requires lots of paperwork and a licensed aviation mechanic’s approval and signature, otherwise the plane would be grounded.

      Your son can still learn to fly, as learning to fly is just like learning to drive: no special skills or bachelor’s degree or educational attainment required. He just needs to pass the medical exam to prove he is fit to fly, get his Student Pilot’s License, then start flying with a Flight Instructor. The real issue is cost: the cost of Ground School Instruction, the reading materials and Flight Computer, Flight Plotter and Pilot’s Logbook, the World Aeronautical Maps, And then there is the Flight Instruction.

      He has to enroll in an accredited Flight School. I paid a total of 95,000 pesos for my Ground Instruction lessons, the books/flight computer/plotter, and the maps of the Philippines, and the final exams. After which he has to pass a medical exam conducted by a Flight Surgeon (there are only 4 in the Philippines) with the required Urinalysis result, Eye/Refraction exam result, Ear/Audiometry exam result, Chest x-ray, ECG with strip, Dental exam, Neuropsychiatric exam result (if below 21 years old), NSO Birth Certificate, and NBI Clearance. After filling up forms and getting checked out by the Flight Surgeon, he will wait for his Class II Medical Certificate and Student Pilot’s LIcense. When it arrives, he will then begin flying with the school’s Flight Instructor and your son then begins paying for each flight hour that he flies to get his required (minimum) 40 hours flight hours, Yes, it costs a lot of money. And that’s just the first step to getting his Private Pilot’s License, after which he can fly a plane without needing a flight instructor beside him, and he can begin enjoying flying you and his friends around. He still has to pay for each flight hour, of course.

      Once he enrolls in a flight school, all the information he needs would be available to him easily. And don’t worry so much about the cost. Just think: how much have you spent to send your son to school, from kindergarten to this point in time? Did you pay for it all at once? It is only the initial cost that is fairly high. Think of it that way. Cheers!

      Reply
  139. Sir,

    My son wants to be a pilot and this coming March 2018, he will be finishing senior high school. I wanted to help my son to fulfill his dreams. That’s why I’m writing here hoping somebody that can help like the study-now-pay-later program. Please help us how to apply for that program. By the way, we are residing at Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City.
    Thank you so much in advance.

    Marjorie

    Reply
    • Hi Marjorie, there are a number of financing programs on offer in the Philippines with training Institutes like Alpha Aviation, Philippine Aviation Academy Training, Leading Edge and so on. Best to contact them to see which one you prefer. They are all shown for free on aviationfly.com There is a large demand for pilots globally now. Great profession.

      Reply
    • Good day Ms. Marjorie,

      I heard that its best to do pilot training in Subic SBMA since the airport have a very huge runway which is perfect for training. Try to contact Asian Institute of Aviation, this school is accredited by the Civil Aviation of the Philippines.

      Reply
    • Dear Marjorie,

      I am not sure that there is a study-now-pay-later program in Cebu for flight school. I can only comment on what costs I have incurred learning to fly.

      I enrolled in a Fixed Base Operator flight school, or a learn-to-fly one-on-one at the hangar method. Your son could also learn to fly in a classroom-instruction method with the uniforms, and aircon room, with lots of classmates. Either way is acceptable, depending on how your son prefers it. Your advantage is that you already live in Lapu-lapu City. That’s where all the airplanes are already.

      Seriously, though, I enrolled in an FBO, called Mactan Aviation Technology Center, Inc., where I got ground schooling from a ground instructor on a one-on-one basis. I had it done in my dental clinic (yes, I am already a dentist, and flying planes is just a bucket list thing.) while other students went to their office/residence behind I.T. Park. I guess you could arrange ground instruction in their hanger at the General Aviation area of Mactan airport. Another flight school located there is the Airworks Aviation Academy, also in the Gen Av area.

      I spent 95,000 pesos outright upon enrollment,for the flight manuals/reading materials/books/flight computer/flight plotter/pilot’s logbook, and the ground instruction course, with exams for each subject covered.

      Once he finishes the Ground Instruction Course, he is now ready to apply for his Student Pilot’s License. ;He will need the ff:
      -Neuropsychiatric Exam result (pls. clarify with Flight School re this requirement)
      -Dental exam profile (copy of his dental record)
      -Chest x-ray
      -Electrocardiogram with strip
      -Refraction exam result (eye check-up)
      -Audiometry exam result (ear check-up)
      -Urinalysis
      -Drug test
      -NSO Birth Certificate
      -NBI Clearance

      And he gets to meet the Flight Surgeon (there are only 4 in the Philippines). This can be done either by going to Manila and visiting the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines office, or be arranged by the flight school if there are a lot of students and are willing to pay for the Flight Surgeon’s travel costs. But that’s far off in the future.

      Simply put, your son can start learning to fly as soon as he wants, as the requirements for a Student Pilot is:
      -not less than 16 years of age
      -can read, speak, and understand English
      -must hold a current Class 2 Medical Certificate

      If you want, have your son check out caap regulations and guidelines, philippine civil aviation regulation personnel licensing which is the official website for info regarding becoming a pilot in the Philippines.

      Reply
  140. Hi Ba Tak An,

    Do you have any recommended aviation school, that is cheap and still can offer as good as the others?
    I’m currently looking Philippine Aviation Academy, but it will cost me 2.8m more or less to acquire “PPL-CPL-IR-FI-MER”

    another thing, is there chance that I will be able to get a job once I finished the said program?
    because I heard that you need at least 500 hours before getting into commercial airlines.

    Hoping for your reply.

    Best Regards,
    Patrick Molleda

    Reply
    • Hi Patrick!

      Its your choice to pick any school you think is great for you. But for me, PAL Aviation School is one of the (best) flight school that currently operating until today. I have done some researches about this and one school got my satisfaction ( PAL Aviation School) on where could I possibly take my future studies onto becoming a Pilot. But bare in mind that this will gonna cost you much higher since PAL Aviation School is a well-known flight school that have produced great pilots in the Philippines. I think you were right on your calculations regarding the money but I think there is an easy solution to finance that big money. Being scholar and finding someone that have a potential to sponsor your studies are one of those solution. I can elaborate more about this.

      Based on what I have heard from different people who have been also researching with this, After graduating with their own flight school you will be automatically set as a F/O to PAL . This means that there is a job that is awaiting for you to apply on. They will gonna prioritized you since you are the product of their own school But this is only based on what I have heard and seen through many videos and blogs out there.

      Im not sure if it will gonna need you to have a more than 500 hours just to get into their airline. But im certain that you will have a job directly to them after graduating on their own school.

      Feel free to choice any schools out there. This is my opinion only, You can also do researching on your own 🙂

      Hope this will help to your inquiries.

      Reply
    • Hi Patrick, Ba Tak An is correct in saying there are plenty of options to finance your training using an educational loan and a couple of flight schools such as Leading Edge, Alpha Aviation, and a few others have these. I would contact them all to not only ask about financial assistance programs but also check the safety record of the flight school. Some schools might be more expensive because they might use newer equipment. Check out it is a free website for people to see and compare all flight schools

      Reply
    • Dear Patrick,

      Those initials stand for Private Pilot License-Commercial Pilot License-Instrument Rating-Flight Instructor and I don’t know what MER is.

      ,From Student Pilot License to Private Pilot License is a minimum 40 hours flight time requirement. From PPL to CPL is minimum 250 hours requirement, with minimum 10 hours IR requirement, meaning you will be able to fly in clouds without needing to see the ground for reference as to where you are or whether the plane is flying towards the ground or flying upside down, while you are flying in clouds. That’s the difference between being a PPL holder flying under Visual Flight Rules and a CPL holder able to fly under Instrument Flight Rules during Instrument Meteorological Conditions, meaning lots and lots of clouds covering the land and water under the airplane.

      You don’t need to be a Flight Instructor to become an airline pilot. You just need to have a CPL and any 4-year Bachelor’s Degree, then you can apply in one of the airlines to undergo schooling to be a First Officer. Good luck!

      Reply
  141. Hi there! I’m Filipino, born and raised here but my dad wants me to take my training in the US. I know it’s hard for a non US citizen to apply for US airlines so I’m planning to come back here once I’m done with my training (PPL+CPL+IR+ME) and apply here in the PH or SE Asia instead. Is this plan okay? would a US certificate be more advantageous for me? do i need any additional certificate when I come back here?

    Reply
    • Hi Ella,

      The US is a great place for pilot training as it is not very expensive (flight instructor/fuel costs, weather and aircraft availability are all favorable). Getting your FAA license and coming back would mean you have to convert your FAA license to a CAAP one, this would require you to do conversion flights and checks with CAAP. Previously the safety records of US flight schools was higher than the Philippines but over the last 5 years Flight Schools in the Philippines have really increased their standard and equipment. I would recommend training to be a pilot in the Philippines. In the US you won’t be able to fly for US carriers and in the Philippines the airlines are actively recruiting new pilots. You can check out all pilot training schools in the Philippines

      Reply
    • Dear Ella,

      According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines regulations, yes, that is possible. You’ll have to present your FAA license, pilot’s logbook and have a Class 2 Medical Certificate, pass the exam about Phlippine Air Law, and do a practical exam or checkride. Good luck!

      Reply
  142. Hi Everyone,

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking up aviation courses even though I did not took up a Bachelor’s Degree that is in line with aviation. (I am a graduate of Computer Science)

    Being a pilot is really my dream but due to Financial issues, I wasn’t able to fulfill those dreams. I hope it’s not too late to be a pilot.

    Appreciate your reply. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Dear Ian,

      You can learn to fly just like you can learn to drive: NO special educational attainment required!

      4-year Bachelor’s Degrees are a requirement if you wish to be an Airline Transport Pilot. Otherwise, as long as you can pay for the Ground Instruction and pass the medical requirements, you can learn to fly a plane.

      Reply
  143. Is there anyone here that received an email about the study now pay later program? Can you guys please send it to me

    Email: Rjvelonta@gmail.com

    I’m currently studying as a senior high school student (Grade 12) and I’m willing to pursue my dreams in becoming a commercial pilot. Is there anyone here studying in PATTS college of aeronautics? Do they offer BS in Aviation Management Major in Flying? I really need some motivation because this was my dream when I was still a kid, I always played with my airplane toys and now I’m willing to pursue my dreams.

    Reply
    • Dear Robert John,

      Don’t give up your dream! Learning to fly is just like learning to drive. You don’t have to be a car mechanic nor own an auto parts store to drive a car!

      Find an accredited flight school in your area (google: list of Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines accredited flight schools) and apply for a Student Pilot’s License. As long as you have the money to pay for your flight hours requirement, you will reach your goal of becoming a commercial pilot. Don’t rush it, take your time, you can even work while learning to fly. I’ve been a dentist for many years now and just finished my 40 hour minimum flight requirement to apply for the Private Pilot License. It’s too late only when you are dead! Good luck!

      Reply
  144. Good day! May i ask if i can still qualified to take the flying school?
    i am a registered nurse age 23 and has 20/20 vision. and in good medical condition.
    and is there any chance if i can avail scholarship from private or in CAAP?
    i recently read the news the next exam will be on december 2017?

    The second examination this year will be held on December at all Caap testing centers.

    Reply
    • lionel says, yes you are qualified for being a pilot. You can pursue flying by just having only a PPL and just fly wherever you want to fly on. If you want to continue your pilot career or to be a progressive pilot to earn money I would prefer you to pursue much higher than having a PPL, you can go have a CPL and you’ll be able to be hired by some airline. But this will cost you mich higher than you ever think.. But the rewards is on the way as you pursue to be an airline pilot. Being hired by some major airline is a great experience in your life, you’ll be able to do whatever you want. There are some airlines that offers you the best that you deserve.
      Hope this will help

      Reply
  145. I am a Grade 11 STEM Student.since then i always wanted to be a pilot. what are the different schools in the Philippines that offers a (Bachelors Degree in Aviation Major in Flying)? and can i study using the “Study Now Pay Later”, because we cannot afford the Tuition Fees. Tia……………..

    Reply
    • Same, iam 13 y/o and i wanted to become a pilot and ive done many researches. The average tution fees for a flight school is ranging from 3M to 5M . Im in a private school but i dont think that we can afford 3 r 5 million pesos for me to achieve my dream to be a pilot. Or if you want you can have aloan from the bank tho it will be worth it when you’d finish studying. Based on my research the monthly income of a regular pilot is 150,000-185,000 and in two to three years youll become a senior pilot then maybe your income will be at least 200,000 pesos . So if you work hard for becoming a pilot surely all of your student depths will be paid in just a year or less than. As long as you really work out to become one one day youll be a pilot just like what you’ve been dreaming . Email me so that we cn talk nd share our desire on becoming a pilot . God bless

      Reply
      • Having a loan from the bank is risky, you will end up having a large number of debt someday though you can get it back once you are a hired pilot and starting earning an amount of money but it will take you 2-3 years just to recover from your debts. Here’s my solution (an easy solution) go find some people who owns a company or a businessmen and try to negotiate with him,
        just say want you really want with him and be a straight-person,dont try to fool him, make a deal with him, do all your best to make him your sponsor to finance your studies, you can offer him a free tutorial in his child since you are a fresh graduate or to work in his company as part-time employee (just in weekends). Do this because nothing is free right now. be a good person to him. there are some businessmen that are willing to help people like us. They are kind and happy to help, just get them happy on you and trust me, you can finish your studies. Also, give reward to them by just simply passing your grades and without having failed it. If you are a desperate, you could do anything just to get your dreams a reality.
        Hope this help ?
        Happy to Help

        Reply
      • Being a Pilot of some major airline is a great experience in your life. You can feel satisfied by the reasonable amount of salary you’d be receiving someday. there’s the emirates that offers one of the best when it comes to paying out their Pilots, by just being a first officer in their airline you could earn 412,025 pesos a month. that is a tax-free, your accommodation is free, insurance as well, free education for your child and many more benefits, that is only your basic salary and note that flying hour is excluded in it so you can reach up to a half million per month. plus if your a productive person your salary goes much higher cause they value their employee’s hard working. In a short words, you have a half million or much higher than it to spend for a one month. All is free, your accommodation, food and they will drive you from your hotel back to the airport. We can achieve all of it if we try our best. Nothing is impossible with God. If you are a desperate, you could do anything just to get your dreams a reality.
        Hope this help ?
        Happy to Help

        Reply
      • The highest pilot salaries being offered right now are in China. There was a big story last year where a pilot was earning US$80,000 per month (check article here https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-08-17/chinese-airlines-lure-expat-pilots-with-lucrative-pay-perks). Best thing to do is to speak to the flight schools and let them give you as much information as possible, especially the number of students which they taught who went to Airlines. You can see all pilot training schools in the Philippines. It would be great if you can follow us on facebook
        We would be grateful if you told anyone else you know who is interested in becoming a pilot/aircraft maintenance engineer/cabin crew about our website.

        Reply
    • Hello.

      I would like to know which is better. If I go to college, get a degree and then sign up in a flight schools like the ones by PAL. or if I go somewhere like wcc/omni and get a BS aviation degree. I am currently an incoming grade 11 student at la salle manila. If getting a degree there would be better, what degree would be recommended.

      If you want to email me. here

      Reply
      • nowadays, Airline companies mostly look in the students backgrounds. It is much better if you’ll take BS in Aviation Major in Flying since it is one of the priority that most of the companies look out to. You’ll become their priority but do not expect that you’d be accepted as easy as what you think. They also look out for the students performances, even if you are graduate by the said course above, It is all bout the students performance.
        hope this help 🙂

        Reply
    • Gabriel, yes you’re right about your estimation onto becoming a Pilot. We are both aiming to be a Pilot someday and to work for major airlines that pays the pilot the rewarding amount of money that they deserve. I’ve done some researches on this, Having a loan from the bank is risky, you will end up having a large number of debt someday though you can get it back once you are a hired pilot and starting earning an amount of money but it will take you 2-3 years just to recover from your debts. Here’s my solution (an easy solution) go find some people who owns a company or a businessmen and try to negotiate with him,
      just say want you really want with him and be a straight-person,dont try to fool him, make a deal with him, do all your best to make him your sponsor to finance your studies, you can offer him a free tutorial in his child since you are a fresh graduate or to work in his company as part-time employee (just in weekends). Do this because nothing is free right now. be a good person to him. there are some businessmen that are willing to help people like us. They are kind and happy to help, just get them happy on you and trust me, you can finish your studies. Also, give reward to them by just simply passing your grades and without having failed it. If you are a desperate, you could do anything just to get your dreams a reality.
      Hope this help 🙂
      Happy to Help

      Reply
    • Dear Gabriel,

      If you look at the total cost of flight instruction, yes, it can reach that much. Why not try asking your parent’s how much have they spent for your tuition so far? You’ll be surprised how large the amount is.

      Same thing with learning to fly: it will cost a lot, but it doesn’t have to be paid UP FRONT! I paid about 95,000 pesos for all the things I needed for Ground School before I even started sitting behind the controls of a small plane. And the remaining cost is the flight hours that I have to log to get my Private Pilot License. I fly only on weekends, and only when I have the money to fly.

      If a student pilot had the money, he would be able to accumulate enough flight hours for a Commercial Pilot’s License in just two months. PPL flight hours-minimum 40 hours, CPL-minimum 250 hours. Flying a four-seater Cessna 172 costs 12,500 pesos per hour (in my flight school), and I just finished my 40 hour requirement. I haven’t paid for the remaining half, so I can get my Flight School Completion Certificate yet, which I have to present to Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines prior to taking my exam for PPL.

      All in all, that’s about 600,000 pesos for my initial cost of learning to fly. Over a period of two years. Once I get my Private Pilot License, I can then start flying single-engine aircraft. Just get started, and everything will fall into place. It may be too costly, or then again, it may be achievable for you. You will never know until you try.
      Good luck!

      Reply
  146. Hi po =) I am currently in Grade 10 (junior high school). I would like to ask if it would make a huge difference if I take up an aviation course in college or not. (Kasi po any degree would be accepted diba?) Gusto ko rin po sana malaman yung about Study Now, Pay Later (heavenabella@gmail.com).

    Reply
    • it would be much better if you’ll take an aviation course like the ones BS in Aviation Major in Flying since it is one of the priority of the employer or airline company. But be sure to have good performance, even if you’re graduate of the BS in Aviation Major in Flying but not having a good skills or performance it will be hard for you to become an airline pilot.
      About the Study Now, Pay Later, you can search anything of it from those who have experienced it. But for me, I think there’s an easy solution, you could finish your studies by getting some sponsor out there, Find a people that owns a company or a businessmen, they are willing to help. Just exchange what good things they would offer to you someday

      Reply
    • Dear Seven,

      The airlines require any 4-year Bachelor’s Degree. As for the other requirements, you have to have a Commercial Pilot’s License first before applying in an airline for instruction as a First Officer. It’s a long process, but, remember, you will be eventually responsible for a few hundred lives each time you fly an airliner, so I guess it’s worth it. Unlike drivers on the road, each pilot you see in an airplane is a trained professional. Good luck!

      Reply
    • Dear Francis,

      No school offers the study flying now, pay later program. Cebu Pacific is offering it, but you will take up flight school in Adelaide, Australia. Try researching it online. Good luck!

      Reply
  147. hi sir, can i have some info about sa study now pay later,, im third year student of avionics at philsca and i want to become a private pilot, thanks in advance

    Reply
  148. Hello Admin, Good Evening, wanting to know if this program you’re having is still on, Im really interested and its my dream to become a pilot someday somehow. We cant afford the cost in flying schools but with your program, it sure will be a big help for me and my dreams to be a reality.

    Im really interested to know the details of your program, hope that you’ll reply. I’m looking forward to it, thank you for giving me hope in pursuing my dreams, below is my email address 🙂 God Bless

    email address: daryl_sam23@yahoo.com

    Reply
  149. Hello peeps…
    I’m from India
    I need to know the total cost… I’m doing second year B. Tech in Aerospace ENGINEERING..
    Can I know about the study now pay later way..if possible…

    Reply
  150. Hi Admin!, Good Day! I really want to become a pilot.. but we can’t afford the cost of training. I would love to ask about the about study now, pay later program. I really want to take that program. it’s a dream come true for me.

    I’m very please to know the details regarding the study now, pay later program. Below is my email address. Thanks!

    vince.apolinario17@gmail.com

    Reply
  151. Hi admin I want to know more about the study now pay later program and the aviation schools inide metromanila, region 4- a&b that offers ppl and cpl courses. Im a seniorhigh How much coud it cost?

    zyra.zarate@gmail,com here is my email I hope youll response 🙂

    Reply
  152. Hello sir I’m willing to know more about Study now Pay later,
    this is my email amielisssm@gmail.com. I;’m currently 4th year college taking Information Technology Degree.. and my Height is 160cm only. is it okay or tatanggapin pa po kaya ako? I;m 20 years old! I know im short 🙁 please reply.

    TIA!

    Reply
    • Dear Hendrich,

      There is no degree course that is required for you to become a pilot. It is just like driving a car: no need for any educational attainment! As long as you are of the minimum age requirement, can read, speak and understand English, you can learn to fly!

      Reply
  153. Can i ask for the study now pay later and im a k12 student coming college student would you advice me to get other course and then take up pilot training or take a aviation course and how can i do it is there any airlines or schools offering a scholarship? heres my email ronalyn,maynigo@gmail,com

    Reply
  154. hi can i have some information about the study now, pay later program? and may I know how much will be the tuition fee. I would like to pursue my dreams to be a commercial pilot. But I don’t have any financial support for now. Im already a bachelor degree holder. My email is vimblastine@gmail.com
    Thanks for the response 🙂

    Reply
  155. G’day Sir. Currently I’m a 1st year student taking up BS AMT as my bachelor’s degree. Well I’ve been dreaming of becoming a Commercial Pilot someday. I’m also inspired by my tito and now he is the new CEO of AirAsia Philippines just recently. I’d like to know about the details of study now and pay later briefly. Please help me here’s my email apollo_luciano@yahoo.com

    Reply
  156. Hi everyone! 🙂 to become a pilot is my ultimate dream but my family has no capacity to fulfill that dream. so i’m asking for more info. about that study now pay later program and those schools which offers scholarship. just send your message in khrodriguez8821@gmail.com thank you.. 🙂 hoping for your respond.. 🙂

    Reply
  157. Hi, kindly send me a details regarding Study Now Pay later for aviation school. Im interested. Im a graduate with a degree of Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, and have a will to become a pilot since when i was a child. You can contact me thru my email gilbertgulliverchiu@yahoo.com.ph

    Thanks! 🙂

    Reply
  158. My son want to be a pilot and he is in K11 as of now and taking up STEM, Can you please give us the best idea, procedure and school as well for him to start and build his dream, I want to ask for information regarding the study now pay later program. Email address is seljio_21@yahoo.com. Thanks in advance.

    Reply
  159. Hi everyone, being a pilot is my lifelong dream if you have any ideas where and what school that have study now pay later program? Please send me their contatcs and addreses so i can inquire personally.

    Dukeylaya@gmail.com

    Reply
  160. Good day, as I was doing research on my son’s future career (he wanted to be a pilot), I found your article very informative, and since I have to prepare our finances to help him pursue his dream career, the study now pay later program you mentions will be a big help. Kindly send me the details on this. (e-mail jaimemanansalajr@yahoo.com) Many thanks.

    Reply
  161. Hi! I really want to become a pilot. But I don’t know where to start. I took up BS Information Technology and I’m currently working now. But I am pretty much sure that my salary isn’t enough to pay. What can you suggest? And where should I start?

    Here’s my email: Jaimesoliveres@hotmail.com

    Reply
    • Dear Jaime Jr.,

      First of all, you have to find an accredited flight school in your area. To be sure, search for “Accredited flight schools Civil Aviation Authority of the Phlippines” and look for the school nearby. Inquire about the cost of enrolling to be a student pilot. And don’t be discouraged by the total cost. The expensive part is often just the Ground School portion, while the Flight School portion is pay when you fly only.

      Reply
  162. Hello po maam/sir. Im a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, but I really want to pursue my dreams on becoming a pilot. Is there a study now pay later program? Pls send me an email if there is.

    prinzphil23@gmail.com

    Reply
  163. I am from Davao and I’m looking for a good school and also i don’t know how to start and what to do. Do you have any suggestions, guide ,or step by step guides? hoping for your replies

    Reply
  164. Hi, can you give me the names of the schools and their contacts( address and nos) that have study now pay later program besides on aag? Thanks appreciate much!

    Reply
  165. Thanks for your article sir, learned a lot from it. Just wanted to clarify. I am currently and undergraduate and I really want to become a pilot with a bachelors degree. Is BS Aviation Major in Flying the right course for me? or do you recommend to take a different bachelors degree then go to flying school? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Dear Troy,

      Airlines require that their pilot-applicants hold ANY four-year Bachelor’s Degree, aside from the other requirements, of course.

      Reply
  166. Hi, thanks for posting, it’s really interesting and informative. May I ask what programs will be taken if you’re already a degree holder. Does it still require 4 years of study to become a pilot? Also, can you please send me an email (cthenica@yahoo.com) for the “Study Now Pay Later” program of your current school? I’m really interested. Thank you very much! 🙂

    Reply
    • No sir, Any 4 year college degree would do.
      You just need the licenses – Private Pilot’s License, Instrumental Rating, Commercial Pilot’s License, Multi Engine rating and a certification in the aircraft that you would like to fly. Example if you would want to fly CebPac’s ATR-72-500 then you have to get the rating for that certain aircraft.

      Reply
  167. hello sir/ma’m,
    ako po si mon gusto ko po sana maging isang piloto, ako ay turning 39 years old. may hinihintay lang po ako pangpaaral, ang tanong ko po kung puwede pa ako maging isang piloto sa edad ko na ito dahil pangarap ko ito mula maliit ako. ang makita ko ang himpapawid at para makita ko si superman din haha. sana makapagaral ako maging maabot ang pangarap ko.
    salamat.

    Reply
    • Hi Raymond, we have a student that is already 42 years old when he started. As long as you have the will and the means to study pilot training, then there will be no problem 🙂

      Reply
  168. hello sir/ma’
    ako po si mon gusto ko po sana maging isang piloto, ako ay turning 39 years old. may hinihintay lang po ako pangpaaral, ang tanong ko po kung puwede pa ako maging isang piloto sa edad ko na ito dahil pangarap ko ito mula maliit ako. ang makita ko ang himpapawid at para makita ko si superman din haha. sana makapagaral ako maging maabot ang pangarap ko.
    salamat.

    Reply
  169. Hi I would like to know if there is a height requirement for you to become a pilot and be hired by an airline? I am afraid that my effort and money would be wasted if I go to flight school and later on be unemployed because I am not qualified for their height requirement. I am a girl who is only 160cm or 5’3 tall. And should you really know how to swim, ‘coz I heard that you will be asked to swim in one of your trainings? Please enlighten me, thanks 🙂

    Reply
  170. Hi! I just want to ask if taking a 2-year course of AVT can help to pursue my dream of becoming a pilot? or should I take the PPL instead of taking the AVT course? I’m a 4th year student taking up BS Business Administration and hoping to graduate this coming march 2017.

    Reply
    • Di naman po. Maraming piloto ang graduate ng none aviation related na kurso. Any 4 year course would do.
      Separate ang training course sa college degree.
      PPL
      IR
      ME
      CPL
      A320 Rating.

      That would make you a A320 First officer

      Reply
      • Thank you for the info. If you don’t mind, can I ask if you can suggest the best school for taking those trainings?

        Reply
  171. Hi, the best schools are in Subic, SBMA. Huge runways, good for training. I would like to share my experience in Asian Institute of Aviation. As of now, they are the best in the Philippines.

    Reply
      • Hi Cloud! We offer Commercial Pilot License in our Academy, Apg international aviation academy, You can avail our Study Now Pay Later program.. We are in partner with RCBC Savings Bank.
        If you have any questions please dont hesitate to call
        Niño Gironella +63917 7466060
        Thanks!

        Reply
  172. Hi. Good Day. Im an incoming grade 11 student. And my dream is to be a pilot. Can you suggest a school where they offer study now pay later? Money is a bit of a problem for us. Thank you for your replies 🙂

    Reply
  173. Good Day Fehl.. Im just wondering..
    I would like to be a pilot but funds for me is the problem..
    Do you happen to know (or anyone) a scholarship for a aspiring pilots like me?..
    I am a 5th year student of BS aeronautical engineering..
    Waiting for your answer and thank you.. 🙂

    Reply
  174. This is so Amazing! As a Grade 11 Student I dream of becoming a Pilot. What school is the best to gain your flight hours in the philippines? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi Marc, Best school really depends on what you are looking for (location, cost, airline career, training equipment, flexible or full time training). Have a look at aviationfly.com which shows you all training institutes in the Philippines.

      Reply
  175. Amazing! As a Grade 10 Student I dream of becoming a Pilot. I already got 60+ Flight Hours in Microsoft Flight Simulator X. ?

    Reply
    • yes, my classmate is alrdy 33 yrs old and most of the airlines has no age limit as long as u meet the std flying hrs.

      Reply
  176. Hello! I’m incoming grade 10 student this year. My dream is to become a pilot but I’m planning to take BSTM ( Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management) first because that’s what my parents want me to be and we don’t have enough money for enrolling to Aviation School that’s why I would like to finish a four-year degree course first before pursuing my dream. So I would like to ask if is it alright to take BSTM instead of Bachelors Degree in Aviation Major in Flying? Can I still enroll to Aviation School after graduating? And how much does it cost (total) to become a commercial pilot? Thank you. I’m hoping for your reply.

    Reply
    • I just noticed your comment was a year ago and I guess you might have been informed by now, but nevertheless, I’m still going to reply to your comment. Yes, you can still enroll no matter what prior course you’ve finished as long as you meet the Aviation requirements/standards (not to mention the whopping 3.3M PAL Aviation tuition fee. hehe) you are pretty much good to go.

      Reply
      • Good day Capt! 😀
        i am currently studying Bachelors of science in computer science and i am 1st year student and i want to become a pilot someday, ive seen to your replys in other comments that we can able to become a pilot even our courses is not related to aviation right? if we graduated in college how many years it would take to become a license pilot? 😀

        Reply
  177. Hi! Im planning to go to pilot school but I dont have a bachelor degree is that a requirement? And which school is the best? Thank you!!!

    Reply
    • hi chat, A bachelor’s degree requirement depends on which aviation school, so far the top picks are PAL Av sch, Omni and Alpha which are quite expensive, you can consider flights schools at subic where i am studying.

      Reply
  178. Hi fehl! I hope you do receive and hope for your reply. I would just like to ask what are the hours required to be hired by an airline? In some few months now im about to finish my flying course. Im a cpl with 200 hrs , multi engine and instrument rated. I anted to apply to pal or cebu pac, im willing to pay for my airbus rating as well but do you think theyd accept me? With the flight hours that ill have? Thanks in advance

    Reply
    • Yes, you can still be a pilot even if you dont have a bachelors degree. The requirement to enter a pilot school is if you are 17 years old, physically fit, NOT color blind and at least a high school graduate that is proficient in English. I know a flying school that is recommended by the Civil Aviation of the Philippines and already has a good reputation that is less expensive than other schools

      Reply
        • Manila and cebu aiports are very crowded and traffic.. I suggest flying schools in Subic, zambales.. The airport runway there is the best for pilot training.. They also have a tower.. Its perfect! I know someone working in a flying school that can help you.. Email me

          Reply
          • Hi Raven,

            Can I have your email address? My son already did his PPL training course and is due to take the ppl exam in CAAP Manila. I just have few other queries. Would be grateful if you can send me an e-mail. Thank you.

  179. Hi! I am a grade 10 student, I just want to know if blurry eyes can affect my pilot course?
    Since when I was a kid, I like airplanes, jets, etc. but my eyes are too blurry. I want to be a pilot but I think it will be over because of my blurry eyes..

    Waiting for your answer..
    Thanks in advance. 🙂 GOD BLESS!!!

    Reply
    • Hi
      currently I am studying in New Zealand in Business management . I am from Bangladesh . I want to be a pilot. I am 23 years old now . I need to know I have done my HSC from general Group . I never had any science background before . can you kindly ensure me somehow it is possible for me to do pilot course ? I am waiting for your ans.
      Thanks
      Hasan

      Reply
    • We visited AAG earlier and they told us that corrective lenses are fine as long as you are not colorblind, and you have to bring at least 2 in the cockpit in case you drop one 🙂 I’m also a grade 10 student

      Reply
  180. hi. this is rolly, i’m 33 yo and i still dream of becoming a pilot. im planning to take pilot training in 2 years time. i would like to know if i still have a chance of becoming a commercial airline pilot with my age by that time. would companies still hire me with my age? thanks.

    Reply
  181. I’m a dentistry student. Supposedly graduate na ako. But I got delayed 1 year. So I’m a 5th yr student. Gusto ko mag pilot. Do I have to change course or can I go directly sa pilot training?

    Reply
  182. Hi Ms. Fhel! Thank you for another informative post! 🙂

    I have one question though, since attending a flying school costs so much, does a PPL and CPL expire? Would it be ideal to take PPL first then save money to take the CPL and the save again to take Instrument Rating? If it does expire, how long does the license last?

    Looking forward to your reply Ms. Fhel! Thank you!

    Reply
    • Hi, thanks for visiting. Yes, PPL here expires in a year. You have to renew it. You can take PPL then CPL if you’re qualified already

      Reply
  183. Just asking!, what could be the possible/how much tuition fee per semister? if i’m going to take a Pilot Course?

    for those who have taken this course? (asking for help!)

    THANKS! 🙂

    Reply
    • Hi ken, i know a flying school that is like 49,000 dollars only but is accredited by the CIVIL AVIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES. Respond if you are interested 🙂 they offer until Commercial Pilot course with ME and IR..

      Reply
        • Hi may I know how many semesters do you need to take in order to complete the whole program up to commercial pilot training? Is the $61,000 the total cost or not? I am currently a sales manager in a top real estate developer and want to follow my dream as a pilot. I want to know if my savings is already enough. Hope you can help. Thank you!

          Reply
  184. Good day mam! I just graduated in high school last march 2015. I am officially enrolled in an aviation college and I will take AMT. I just want to ask if BS Aircraft Maintenance Technology is also a good course to become a pilot?

    Because I am planning to use my ideas and skills what I learned in AMT when I graduate to become a pilot… Is it okay?

    Thank you very much!

    Reply
  185. Thanks for this. Aviation industry offers promising opportunities. It’s up to each of us how to gain and absorb that offers. I’m a licensed Avionics Technician, we’re specialized in Radio, Equipment’s and Instrumentation’s inboard and out of the aircraft. To those who wants Aviation career, your decision is right. Go for it. I’m also planning to pursue to CP license, someday. If not, join Lufthansa Technik or go abroad. Only God knows whats best for us. He’ll guide us.

    I’ll check that Airworks in Cebu. Thanks for the info.

    Reply
  186. i am currently studying amt (aircrft maintenance technology) and i want to know if aviation industry offers options or scholarship of training as a pilot while working to them as an AMT

    Reply
  187. Hi. I’m Christine and I’m 16, and I’m graduating this March. I would love to become a pilot. I will be studying at Airworks this coming June and it’s giving me jitters. I’m doubting and I’m afraid that my chosen career would not suit me 🙁

    Reply
    • @Christine,
      hi. I’m Wilkin, nice to meet you. I am a former pilot student at WCC-ATC. i am turning 2nd year this coming second semester. (starts in August)
      i already have my wings (requirement for solo flyers when 15 hours is reached.)
      you will have yours when you reached 15 hrs of flying.
      WCC has also built-in hotel for the accommodation of pilot students, also for tourism students, (Flight Attendant) AMT (Aircraft Maintenance and Technician) and pilot foreigners who chose to train and accumulate flight hours needed to be in the airlines.
      2nd hotel is nearly finished for the incoming freshmen and other foreigners.
      WCC has its own runway (800 meters and now for rehabilitation for widening)
      but hey, i would advice you to think again if you really wanted to be a pilot because it might seem too good to be a pilot someday but it requires:
      -work load management
      -situational awareness
      -communication skills
      -planning, problem solving
      -decision making
      -technical skills (navigation, meteorology, radio operation, Air Traffic communications, etc.
      -Physics and aircraft general knowledge
      -Operation performance (this is how you fly the plane whether it is good or bad flying, landing, TO’s)
      -Managerial and coordination skills
      -Aircraft operation systems
      -Cognitive and Social Skills
      and most of all,
      PASSION.
      you might survive while you are in the college but will you survive in applying?
      you can now enroll if you want to join the 1st batch of freshmen who will have their medicals as early as August to September.
      or you can pm me in my fb acc. (Wilkin Daves M. Austria)
      oh, btw. almost forgot. WCC-ATC is located in Binalonan, Pangasinan.
      good luck on your decision, future Captain Christine.

      Reply
  188. I’ve read that in order for you to become pilot, you should take ppl (with 40 flying hrs) and cpl with (150 flying hours) is it still updated? Would you happen to know how much would it cost for flight per hour? Is there an age limit here in hiring pilots? Thanks a bunch..

    Reply
  189. What if you fail and repeat a grade in high school.
    Does it affect the entrance exam for becoming a pilot?
    Will they still accept you in becoming a pilot. Lets just say you only repeated 3rd year once and after u repeated u went to 4th year then you finally graduate. Will they still accept you in becoming a pilot?

    Reply
    • Yes, they would accept you since you are a graduate, that’s what matters. You worry about that record when you apply to airline companies. You need to prove yourself and get that pilot license

      Reply
      • can you help me? I am 20 year old and I am 3rd year college this coming june with the coarse of BS Psychology. and I want to shift a coarse, and I want to be a pilot. But how?
        thanks for the replay:-))

        Reply
  190. Since i started to dream i want to be a pilot already someday because i want to travel around the world
    but its so expensive.Some of the people told me to become an airforce and after a years convert into a commercial.

    Reply
  191. Is it too late for me to start? Planning to study abroad to be a pilot then go back here in the phil. Madali lang kaya mkakuha ng work after training? First officer?

    Reply
  192. How much is piloting course ? Magkano ang minimum ng tuition fee at bawat semester?
    I’m a grade 9 student and will grab the engineering in K to 12 . Dahil ayon lang ang napakalapit na course na available sa school namin. I want to become a pilot. I read so many articles but only this one is most helpful. And I want to know how much is the cost of piloting? Millions ?
    Please reply and thanks for this article 😀

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  193. Is Bachelor’s Degree required to become a private/commercial pilot in the Philippines? In United States, some airlines don’t require college degree in order to obtain FAA License and fly an aircraft.

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  194. I wonder what is the total amount of money needed to achieve my dream of becoming an airline pilot. I hope you can tell me about it ’cause it’s very important to me to know . And oh.. If I get my license as a pilot here in Philippines, can I apply in other country. I’m just curious tho. Sorry because I’m asking many questions I just want to know as much as possible about becoming a pilot.

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  195. I really want to become a pilot, im currently grade 9 in high School, scholar in PSHS but the career is a bit too expensive and my question. how do you become a pilot do you have to take a course before going to flight school ?? and how much does it cost ?? My dream is to be commercial pilot someday…

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  196. Hi I’m a 4th yr hs , my first choice in college is tourism but biglang nagbago parang i want to become a commercial pilot nalang so nagbasa basa ako ng mga article about sa course na gusto ko at nagustuhan ko nmn para kasing na chachallenge ako ang inaalala ko lang po is more on math daw po un and science it’s that true po ba? Ehh i hate math pa nmn po , pls answer asap

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    • There is no height requirements in flying school but in applying in airline there is, If i’m not mistaken for male is 5’7 or 5’8 for Female is 5’4.

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  197. I’m just 17 years old. And I’m very addicted on Microsoft Flight Simulator Game cause I really want to become a Pilot. That is my dream to become a Commercial pilot. But my parent’s can’t afford the tuition fees. And there is no scholarships here in Philippines. So what can I do? For short my dreams will not come true. I wan’t to join the Air Force, but I am a small man, skinny and short. For short I can’t pass the requirements on becoming a pilot of Air force.

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    • Well you are young and you are good in flight simulator game. Why don’t you apply in the Air Force and see if you can make it. Don’t make excuses again by worrying what can’t do. If there is a will, there’s a way. Start by applying at the air force

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      • Hey…I want to know something..Does education qualification help to be pilot or not I am from Nepal and i’m studying management….to be a pilot does i should take science or not..and pilot course cost how much and how to try for scholarship..

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  198. Hi Im already 17yrs old, and im from the Philippines. I want to be a pilot someday, I’m already going to college this year, and i dont know what course should I take to become a pilot. And my question is that What course do i need to take?

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  199. Hi Fehl ! Is there scholarships offered in aviation courses ?? Can u cite examples of schools that offered scholarship to become a pilot .. i really cant afford this kind of profession coz its too expensive yet its my dream to become a pilot .. by the way im from cebu .. can u help me .. ty 🙂

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  200. I am currently studying Electrical Engineering at UST, can I be a pilot without finishing requisite courses like Aeronautical Engg, Aerospace Engg., before I can have a flying hours or it is required to have those pre-requisites. Thanks.

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      • hi Fehl, i am 17 yrs. old and i newly just GraDuated hiGh SchoOL, i want to be a piLot but my family can’t afford that career .. then i don’t know what it takes to become a piLot .. what shoulD i do to reach my Dreams ?! 🙁

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  201. ahhh how po maging commercial pilot… ? ahh millions :(? or hundredths thousands ? i want to be a pilot but my father income is only 120 thousand a week is that enough po? 🙁 now im 1st years hrm students im not serous in my course i really want to be a pilot … saan po pwede kumuha ng scholarship? :((((((((

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    • Sa airlink kaso mo 100k per sem tapos trimester equal to 300k per year and 4 year of the BS degree so 1.2 million in school per need mo pa ma complete ung flying hours mo which is 6500 per hour in omni or flyfast min. Req to be a first officer is 200 hrs back then but for now it is on 1500 hrs depende sa airline pero pag cebu pac , airasia ,pal yan ang req. i recomend dude take up BS Aircraft maintenance and tech. Para may back up ka pag d ka maging pilot at malaki din salary non about 100k at un pede ka na mag flying hours

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  202. hi fehl, im now tourism graduate, but i want to be a pilot, in what way can i make it and what steps should i do?, thanks alot.

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  203. I just want a clear path/picture for a career as an airline pilot. Its too expensive, i want to plan it well before i started. Thanks

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  204. If i get a CPL and IRC course and meet the 2oo minimun flight hours if i not mistaken, is there a big chance to get hire as a pliot in an airline companies? Im already 24, what is the fastest way to get the career? And do you have any idea if pal still offer a scholarship program for a pilot? Thanks a lot.

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  205. Hi fehl, I’m 24 years old, I took bachelors degree and now working as a corporate sales officer in an healthcare industry. My dream is to become a commercial pilot in the future and I I know it’s not like easy. Can u give me advise how can I start it. Is it also possible to be a pilot if I have fear of heights?

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    • Hello Hanz 🙂 The beginning of a dream come true is believing. If you believe you can make it then nothing is impossible. I know it’s hard but hey nothing that is easy is worth it 🙂 hehe I think you might also like our interview post about an Aeronautic Engineer. You’ll get more ideas how is it in aviation and getting a license. Just go to the INTERVIEW topics. Have a great day!

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  206. Im currently a 3rd year accountancy student and plans to pursue my dream to be a pilot. What is the best thingg that i can do, finish my accountancy first then pursue piloting OR shift my course immidiately with one of those options you gave?

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      • Hey Nicco! I just read this and right now I am a 3rd year Accountancy student but I don’t know what to do either. I don’t know maybe because my family can’t afford the costs. I don’t know what to do. Can you please send sites of air schools in the Philippines? Thank you!

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          • Also, you can be a pilot after 2 years! 2 months in the classroom and the remaining is the actual already 🙂 1.5 million in 2 years i think its worth it cause of study now, pay later program

    • why not finish the accountancy first?…. I really want to become a pilot ….. that’s my dream since i was in 4th grade. That’s the career I really want to have. I’m Already 4th year college taking Bachelors of science major in Information Technology (BSIT) and I promise to myself that I will become a pilot someday….. I will work for that. I took IT because this days and the in the future IT is still in demand due to computer era. and I think i can find a good paying job so that i can save for my study to be a pilot. IT is not my passion I’ll be honest with that. I really dont want IT. because my real passion is to be pilot. Everyday I imagine, what if I’m already a pilot. feels good :)…. Before I went to college…. I Decide to take Industrial Engineering. I pass the entrance exam in some of universities in manila.but I don’t know why I Take IT. I’m very indecisive.. but when my first year second sem comes. I decide that i really want to be a pilot. I told it to my parents but they said that they are not sure if they can handle the fee in flying hours. but now I’m suprise when they said that i can study again and take the course to be a pilot (Bachelors Degree in Aviation Major in Flying or BS Aeronautics major in Airport Transportation) and I’m very happy and excited about it 🙂 by the way I’m 19 years old today…. i think that I’m not that old to take that course. hope majority of my minor subjects will going to be credited… so that i can finish at age of 23 🙂 Follow your dreams man. there’s always a way to achieve what you want! 🙂 never give up 🙂

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    • Finish your accountancy first so you would have a huge money to finish your flying hours. Any course will do naman e to be a pilot EXP lng tlga ang mahirap

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    • Nicco, just like you, Its my dream to be a pilot.
      I’m already a graduate of accountancy (cpa board passer), 4years working but still I really wanted to be a pilot and never I’d want to spend the rest of my life doing financials and office work. Right now I am saving for my tuition fee for PPL.

      @ Miss Fehl – if I finish the whole course by age of 33-34, (I’m 27 now) does airline companies have age limit for you not to be hired? I can only do my flying on weekends that’s why I guess it would take me longer to finish both PPL and CPL.
      Anyone who could answer, TIA! 🙂

      And also the most affordable school you know? I’ve inquired already in some schools around Pasay/Paranaque and the least cost is around 1.3M.

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  207. I want to become a pilot but my family cannt affored me they cannt abeal to pay such a costly fee so what can i do?

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    • If there’s a will, there’s a way. Perhaps you can do working while studying to support yourself. Or apply scholarship. There surely is a way. If you watched the Pearl Harbor movie, you know you won’t let anything or anyone pull out your wings to fly.

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