You need a license to drive a car, and the same goes for flying an airplane (though their operation differs completely!)
We get it. You want to start your flying career but are confused about where to begin. Well, we’re here to help!
The truth is, there are many pilot licenses available. So, it would help if you made a choice depending on your interest and skill set. And no, flying a drone isn’t the same as flying a Robinson R22, so be sure of what you want!
We have discussed various pilot licenses in this article.
Have a look.
Drone Pilot License
A drone pilot license is an exciting option for those looking for adventure but does not want to fly an aircraft. Remote pilot certificates are required for those pilots who wish to fly drones. You must:
- Be physically and mentally fit to operate the drone
- Clear the aeronautical knowledge exam
You can use drones for both professional and recreational purposes.
This license will allow you to do freelance work, transport work, film-making, and many other things. You need to be familiar with all rules and regulations when flying your drone.
Helicopter Pilot Certificate/License
Helicopter licenses work in the same way as other airplane ones but are classified separately: rotorcraft.
You can obtain a helicopter license to become a private or commercial pilot.
To professionally handle a helicopter, you will need several pilot licenses. But starting out, you will first need to obtain your private pilot helicopter license. It is important to:
- Pass a Written Exam
- 40 hours total flight time
There are many helicopter pilot jobs, including search-and-rescue, emergency services, and federal agency positions. You should be aware that you can fly helicopters professionally or for pleasure, depending on your license or certification.
The truth is, helicopter pilots have fewer commercial opportunities than fixed-wing counterparts. This airplane makes airplane license an attractive career option for many. These pilots require less training because they are already licensed and proficient in all aspects of flight.
Private Pilot License
A private pilot license (PPL) is above a recreational pilot license. This license removes several flying restrictions but does not allow a pilot to be eligible for compensation or hire.
There are differences in the requirements for private pilot licenses depending on whether a flight school operates under Part 61 or Part 141.
However, individuals must:
- Pass the written and practical knowledge tests
- Have at least a student pilot certificate
- Minimum 35-40 minutes of flight time
Private pilot licenses open the doors to new opportunities. These pilot licenses allow you to fly further than 50 miles and carry more passengers (up to what your aircraft can handle) – even beyond the United States.
Your PPL allows you to fly at night or in towered airports. For those who wish to further their careers and earn additional licenses, this license is necessary.
A PPL can include an instrument rating, but this isn’t explicitly a certificate. This permits you to fly “by instrument, ” allowing you to operate in areas with limited visibility.
If you intend to fly professionally or long distances, an instrument rating is essential.
Sport Pilot License
A sport pilot license can be of a limited type, but it could serve as a stepping stone to get other licenses as well.
You can fly a light-sport aircraft (LSA) with this license. However, you cannot fly at night, with less than three miles of visibility, or in Class A-D airspace or airports.
This restriction is strictly applicable in many parts of the country. You can only carry one passenger with your sport pilot license, and you cannot receive compensation for sharing expenses.
To obtain a certificate as a sport pilot, you must:
- Have a student pilot certificate
- Fly train for a minimum of 20 hours
- Pass written & practical exams
Hobbyists can use this license.
Final Word
Many good flying schools like the Hillsboro Aero Academy offer flight training and certifications to aspiring pilots. You need to understand what skill set you possess and choose the respective license type.