Single Engine Commercial
Looking at a career in aviation? Or, perhaps you’re a hobbyist hoping to increase your safety margin and lower your insurance premiums? Either way, this certificate takes your private pilot skills to the next level and permits you to work for compensation or hire. This advanced rating can be a challenge, but you’ll walk away with unmatched confidence and mastery of the aircraft.
Am I eligible?
You must already hold at least a private pilot certificate, and holding an instrument rating is strongly encouraged.
You must be at least 18 years old to earn your commercial certificate.
You should start commercial training with at least 220 total flight hours, and 70 hours of pilot in command time (250 and 100 hours, respectively, are required for the commercial certificate but you’ll only receive about 30 hours during your training).
You must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
You must be able to obtain at least a Second Class FAA Medical Certificate to exercise any commercial pilot privileges after passing your exams.
How long will it take?
There is no definitive answer, as each student is different, and this certificate is more variable than most! The quality of your previous experiences, as well as your aptitude, means this certificate could be earned anywhere between 6 weeks and 6 months.
You should dedicate 3 - 5 hours of study on the ground for every 1 flight hour. Note that the commercial certificate requires more self-study at home than your previous certificates.
Be cautious of any school or instructor that guarantees a specific timeline, since individual skill, time commitment, and external variables like weather and maintenance are all factors.
What are the requirements?
20 hours (minimum) of flight training, meeting specific requirements outlined in §61.129(a) and the Commercial Pilot Airplane - Airman Certification Standards (ACS).
250 total flight hours, including 100 hours as pilot in command (additional specific restrictions are found in §61.129(a)).
Pass an FAA written exam.
Pass an FAA checkride (combined oral and flight exam).
What will it cost?
The cost of your training is directly related to the length of your training, and the length of your training is closely related to your aptitude, the quality of your prior experience, and time commitment. Be cautious of any school or instructor that guarantees a specific cost upfront!
Though I cannot guarantee any particular price, here are the major factors to estimate:
Online ground school: $300.
Flight Instruction: $85/hr × 20 hours (minimum) = $1,700.
Aircraft Rentals: $150/hr × 30 hours (approximately) = $4,500.
Pilot Supplies & Equipment: $200.
Exams: $1,400.
You won’t spend less than $8,100. However, I strongly encourage you to budget $9,000 - $15,000, and possibly more if you’re attempting this certificate without a solid foundation of currency and proficiency to private pilot standards.
I can guarantee that I’ll keep you informed of your progress, emphasize areas of weakness and provide strategies to study effectively, and help you grow into a safe, competent commercial pilot in the minimum time and cost possible.