With New Zealand’s thriving aviation industry, more people are seeking careers as pilots. Some are doing it because they dream of operating commercial flights. Others do it because they want to operate their own planes. And others are in it because they want to venture into aviation tourism. No matter the reason behind your aspirations, we can all agree that a career in aviation is not only profitable but also one filled with all sorts of adventures. But how do you get started on it? This guide shows you how.
The Pilot Path in New Zealand
If you want to operate a flight by yourself one day, there are several steps that you need to take. They are as follows:
Step 1: Experiencing the Cockpit
Many people have been passengers on several flights by the time they decide to become pilots. But have you ever been in the cockpit and seen just what it takes to fly a plane? Before you can truly commit to life as a pilot, you will need to step into a pilot’s shoes. With an instructor by your side, you will get to see how the controls work. And at some point, you will also get to take over the controls. The idea here is to allow you to get a taste of pilot life and decide whether this is truly something you would like to do.
Step 2: Choosing a School
After your cockpit experience, you will have two choices. One is to hold off on your pilot training as you weigh your options. Some people do this to work through the anxiety of being in control. The second option is to enroll in a school and start learning how to operate a plane by yourself. Your choice of school will depend on what type of pilot you want to become. But just to get an idea of what’s available, here are the main options:
- University: Suppose you would like to work at an airline once you are done with training. This is a great option. You get both hands-on and theoretical lessons that prepare you for a wide range of flight conditions.
- Private flight schools. These schools are known for offering in-depth training and have helped many people, including pilot cadets, hone their skills in operating under different weather conditions. Just like with a university education, these schools can help you prepare for a career in operating commercial flights.
- Aero clubs. If you are after a pilot license that allows you to fly recreationally or operate your own plane, this is a great option. It is more flexible compared to the flight schools and university courses, which is great if you want to learn at your own pace.
It’s important to add that other training opportunities are also available. For example, if you want to become a pilot in the Air Force, your type of training will take place in a different setting. Even so, the basics of flight training remain the same regardless of where you go to school.
Step 3: Passing the Medicals
Operating a flight carries several risks, not just to yourself but also to the people on the plane or along its flight path. For this reason, the law requires all prospective flying school students to undergo a medical assessment, which determines whether you are able to operate a flight alone. You will need to pass this exam to get a student pilot license. Your school will guide you on where and when to get these tests.
Step 4: Training for a Private Pilot License (PPL)
With your medicals out of the way, you will get a student pilot license, which will allow you to train under a certified instructor. To qualify for the PPL, you will need to meet the following criteria:
- You must log at least 50 hours of flight time. Some of these will be solo flights.
- You must pass theory exams relating to subjects such as navigation and air law.
At the end of your training, you will also be subject to a final practical test conducted by an independent flight examiner. If you pass, you will get the PPL, enabling you to fly your own plane as well as recreational flights.
Step 5: Advancing to a Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Anyone who wants to operate commercial flights needs a CPL, and to get this, you will need to meet the following criteria:
- You must log at least 200 hours of flight time.
- You must pass the theory exams.
Just like with the PPL, you will have to complete a final test, and if you pass this, you will get your CPL. And just like that, you will have what it takes to seek employment as a commercial pilot.
How Long Does Training Take?
Getting a PPL takes about three to six months if you study full-time. But if you do it part-time, it can take up to two years to finish your training. A CPL takes about one to three years, which depends on where you go to school.
