How to become a commercial pilot?

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.

At Pelican Flight Training, we believe that there's no age limit for pursuing your dream of becoming a pilot. Many successful pilots have started their training later in life, and 30 is still quite young.

What matters most is your dedication, passion, and willingness to learn. If you have any specific concerns or questions, feel free to reach out through our website, and we'll be happy to assist you!

No, you do NOT need a 4-year degree to become a commercial pilot — and most airlines today do not require one at all.

While some major airlines used to prefer candidates with a college degree, the industry has shifted. What airlines really care about now is flight time, safety, and skill.

If you meet the hour requirements (like 1,500 hours for the ATP in the U.S.), have strong training, and demonstrate professionalism, you’re already on the right path.

In fact, many pilots today are getting hired without any college degree — especially with the ongoing demand for pilots worldwide.

Yes, now is one of the ideal times in history to become a pilot. The global aviation industry is experiencing a significant pilot shortage, with airlines urgently seeking well-trained, qualified professionals to meet growing travel demand.

This shortage has created exceptional opportunities for aspiring pilots, including faster career progression, higher salaries, and increased job security. In the United States, airlines are offering competitive pay packages, signing bonuses.

Beyond financial rewards, becoming a pilot offers a dynamic, respected career filled with travel, personal growth, and adventure. With the right training program and support, your path to the cockpit can begin today — and the demand for skilled pilots means your future in aviation has never looked brighter.

At Pelican Flight Training, we can say that the demand for pilots has been consistently strong in recent years. The aviation industry is experiencing a significant need for qualified pilots due to factors such as the growth of air travel, retirements of current pilots, and the expansion of airlines.

However, for the most accurate and up-to-date information on pilot demand, we recommend checking industry reports or reaching out to us directly through our website.

We're here to help with any other questions you may have about our training programs or the aviation industry!