ICAO / EASA LICENSE CONVERSION TO FAA

If you get your Pilot License from anywhere outside of United States, if you wish to develop your aviation education, get a new aviation profession Certified Flight Instructor and receive a unique flight experience in the most developed in the world aviation infrastructure of US airspace - Pelican Flight Training is ready to help you on the way to your dream. This approach is for the pilots who have the previous ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and for whom our school can offer a unique possibility through the standardization of their previous training to become FAA Commercial Pilot, adding Certified Flight Instructor with applicable Ratings and finally get Diploma of Graduation of our accredited Professional Pilot Program. Enrollment in this program make you eligible for F1 student visa status.

Start Flying

These courses bring you the highest level of professionalism, so you will be able to share your knowledge with other students and continuously improve your pilot and instructor skills in the professional background. It is not only the training, but it is also additional aviation profession plus the possibility to get your practical training (for F-1 Students only) in the United States for up to 2 years, gain practical experience in flight training, build 1500 hours for your future aviation career and be paid for hours of instructing you give to students or flying as commercial pilot, join US Regional airline for 1 year and may be even sponsored for the Type Rating, if you are qualified.

Flight School  ›  Programs & Courses  ›  Conversion Program

Highest standards in training


  • FAA 141 approved program
  • Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) which is a recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education
  • Train 35% faster than other flight schools
  • Build 1500 hours airline hiring minimums
  • US regional airline interview guaranteed

F1 Student Visa is the only type of student visa which gives you the possibility to have practical training in the United States after the successful graduation of your educational professional program. It means that after your Full Professional Pilot Program including CFI course and instructor ratings will be successfully completed, you can apply for practical training employment and upon approval start to build flight hours, getting skills and experience for your future professional career being officially paid as a flight instructor or pilot and building up to 1500 flight hours to meet ATP and airlines requirements, and even may be sponsored for the relevant type rating.

  • Standardization and Conversion to FAA CPL SEL IR
  • ME Add-on Rating
  • CFI, CFII, MEI
  • Practical Training and Airline Interview

1. Standardization and conversion

You have to apply and receive from FAA Private Pilot Licence based on your Foreign Licence and get TSA approval for Initial and Instrument Training to start your Program at our School. Special Curriculum Course is approved to allow you after its successful graduation pass the flight check-ride for FAA Commercial Pilot Licence SEL with Instrument Rating. Only then you may begin your Certified Flight Instructor training part of full Professional Pilot Program. This course is based on the minimum time requirements of Federal Regulations and consist of 30 hours of flight time and 25 hours of ground school and briefings if you met all the prerequisite requirements.for this course Time and hours over and above these minimums will be charged at school published rates.

2. Multi engine add-on Rating

The multi-engine rating should be added to the FAA Commercial Pilot certificate and permits the holder to act as pilot in command of a multi-engine airplane. This course when added to the commercial pilot certificate allows the student of conversion to be enrolled to Multi Engine Instructor Course to add MEL Rating to the Instructor Certificate. This course is based on the minimum time requirements of Federal Regulations. Time and hours over and above these minimums will be charged at school published rates.

3. Flight Instructor courses CFI, CFII, MEI

When you receive you FAA CPL SEL your are eligible to be enrolled to the Initial Certified Flight Instructor Course. To obtain the knowledge, skill and aeronautical experience to meet a requirements of Flight Instructor Certificate with an airplane category. It is very intensive course consisting of Ground Classes of Fundamentals of Instruction (FOI) and Subject Learning for Lessons Plan FIA) finalized by two FAA written tests. .Graduation from the Rating Courses added to your Flight Instructor Certificate -, CFI and MEI required for you to be eligible to start your Practical Training. This courses are based on the minimum time requirements of Federal Regulations. Time and hours over and above these minimums will be charged at school published rates.

4. Airline Interview

Pelican Flight Training currently guarantees to its successful graduates, who have an 93%+ passing rate and all the check rides passed from the 1 attempt, at least 3 interviews for OPT employment (a subject for the governmental approval) with the following partnering employers:

  • Pelican Flight Training (KHWO)
  • Wayman Aviation Academy (KHWO)
  • Flying Academy (KTMB)

When your program and OPT is finished you will have 60 days when you may transfer to another school or begin another program or go back to your home country to apply the received knowledge and develop your professional pilot career.

But please keep in mind that student should not arrive from overseas with the expectation of finding part-time work to supplement finance during their flight training, the US government requires each student to show sufficient funds to cover all costs during their studies before departing to attend the school.

Personalized Quote

For conversion of your IR/CPL send us a request by email so we can provide you with a quote.

We are not asking for payments upfront. You will start paying for training when your visa is approved and you arrived in USA.

Time building

1500 hours

Build 1500 hours airline hiring minimums.

Get Paid to Fly

up to $54,000

Become a flight instructor and earn back up to $54,000

If you planning to complete only the Conversion Course to convert your ICAO CPL to FAA CPL you will be enrolled as M-1 visa student. M-1 is regular training visa, most commonly used in the United States. You will graduate your Course or Courses and as soon as your training is done you will have 30 days to go back to your country.

  • Conversion CPL IR

1. Conversion CPL IR

The Conversion Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with Instrument Rating (IR) under the M-1 Visa program at Pelican Flight Training is designed for international students who already hold a foreign pilot’s license and wish to convert it to an FAA-approved CPL with an Instrument Rating. This program allows students to gain globally recognized FAA certification without the need for college enrollment. With the M-1 Visa, students can complete their training in the U.S., though they must return to their home country upon completion, as the visa does not permit work authorization in the U.S. The program provides a structured pathway to enhance your aviation qualifications, improve your flying skills, and prepare you for a professional career in aviation.

Key Benefits:

  • Tailored for international students seeking FAA certification.
  • No need for college or university enrollment.
  • High-quality training in line with FAA standards, providing globally recognized credentials.

Personalized Quote

For conversion of your IR/CPL send us a request by email so we can provide you with a quote.

We are not asking for payments upfront. You will start paying for training when your visa is approved and you arrived in USA.

Training duration

6-9 months

Career assistance

Pelican Flight Training currently guarantees to its successful graduates, who have an 93%+ passing rate and all the check rides passed from the 1 attempt, at least 3 interviews for OPT employment (a subject for the governmental approval) with the following partnering employers:

  • Pelican Flight Training (KHWO)
  • Wayman Aviation Academy (KHWO)
  • Flying Academy (KTMB)

Frequently Asked Questions

At Pelican Flight Training, we often receive questions about the differences between Part 141 and Part 61 flight training programs, especially in relation to airline preferences. Generally, airlines do not have a strict preference for one over the other. Both training paths are valid, and pilots from both types of programs can be hired by airlines.

However, many airlines may favor candidates who have completed a Part 141 program due to its structured curriculum and regulatory oversight, which can provide a more standardized training experience. That said, what matters most to airlines is the overall quality of training, flight experience, and the pilot's ability to demonstrate their skills and knowledge during the hiring process.

If you have more specific questions or need further clarification on this topic, please feel free to submit an inquiry through our website, and we would be happy to assist you!

At Pelican Flight Training in Pembroke Pines, Florida, the difference between Part 61 and Part 141 pilot certification primarily lies in the structure and requirements of the training programs.

Part 61: This regulation offers more flexibility in terms of flight training. It allows students to learn at their own pace, and instructors can tailor the training to meet individual needs. There are no specific requirements for the number of hours or a structured curriculum, although students still need to meet the minimum flight hours and pass the necessary exams to obtain their certification.

Part 141: This regulation is more structured and is designed for flight schools that have an FAA-approved curriculum. Part 141 programs have specific training requirements, including a minimum number of flight hours and classroom instruction. This type of certification can be beneficial for students who prefer a more organized approach and may also lead to reduced flight hour requirements for certain certifications.

Pelican Flight Training is a 141 school. Course requirements and guidelines of the syllabus vary, as well as the time and hours required by the FAA for completion.

Yes, Florida is an excellent location for flight training. The state has a favorable climate with plenty of sunshine and relatively mild weather throughout the year, which allows for more consistent flying conditions.

Additionally, Florida offers a variety of airspace and terrains, giving students diverse training experiences. If you have specific questions or would like more detailed information about our programs at Pelican Flight Training, please feel free to submit an inquiry through our website.

Yes, pilots are generally very well paid, especially as they advance in their careers. Commercial airline pilots enjoy competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and long-term earning potential.

While entry-level pilots, such as Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs), typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 per year, first officers at regional airlines can make between $60,000 and $90,000 annually. With experience, senior captains at major airlines often earn between $250,000 and $400,000 per year.

Corporate and charter pilots also earn respectable salaries ranging from $80,000 to $150,000. As global demand for pilots increases, salaries continue to rise, and many airlines offer attractive bonuses and fast-track career options.

In addition to strong pay, pilots also benefit from travel perks, retirement plans, flexible schedules, and professional prestige, making aviation not only a financially sound career path but also an incredibly rewarding one.

At Pelican Flight Training in Pembroke Pines, Florida, the time it takes to become a commercial pilot depends on several factors — including what licenses you already hold, the licenses you wish to obtain, and the visa program you are interested in (F-1 or M-1).

In general, training duration can range from a few months to over a year, depending on your starting point and training frequency.

For a more accurate timeline tailored to your goals, we recommend submitting a request through our website so we can provide detailed guidance based on your individual profile.

Pelican Flight School, based in South Florida, offers one of the most comprehensive flight training programs in the region, taking full advantage of the state’s favorable weather conditions. Operating out of North Perry Airport, the school benefits from the consistent winds and clear skies, ensuring that students maximize their flying hours year-round. Florida’s location also offers a unique learning environment, with proximity to major airports like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Opa-Locka, giving students invaluable experience in navigating busy airspaces. With over 30 years of experience, Pelican Flight School is recognized for its focus on safety, high-quality instruction, and personalized training programs for both beginners and seasoned pilots. Whether you are converting a foreign license or starting from zero hours, our Florida-based flight school provides everything you need to succeed in aviation.

Pelican students life

Request More Information

We will be happy to personally assist you in making decision for your future airline career by providing you with all the information you might need and providing answers to all of your questions. Please complete the form, and we will be in touch with you soon.

Program
Application Form
Personal information
Contacts
Address
Additional information
Citizenship
Marital Status
Can you read, speak and understand English?
Do You Hold an FAA Pilot Certificate ?
Do You Hold an FAA Medical Certificate ?
When Would You Like to Start Training?
Choose the courses
Airline
  • Other
Helicopter
  • Other
YOUR Flight experience
Are they FAA?
Previous Flight Experience
Total PIC Solo
VFR
IFR
Cross Country
Complex
Single Engine
Multi Engine
Dual Given
Total flight hours
Upload documents
Copy of Passport
Add photos from your computer or drag them to this area
High School Diploma or higher level of education
Add photos from your computer or drag them to this area
Resume in English
Add photos from your computer or drag them to this area
Copy of your last page of the logbook
Add photos from your computer or drag them to this area
Proof of funds which indicates you have sufficient money to pay for all of your training and living expenses while in the United States.
Add photos from your computer or drag them to this area