So, you’re a helicopter pilot looking to transition to the airplane side to land the job you’ve always wanted—congratulations! To qualify for airline employment, you’ll need some additional training and ratings. The most common scenario: you’re a military rotary-wing pilot aiming for a Part 121 airline job. You likely already hold an FAA Commercial Rotorcraft-Helicopter and Instrument-Helicopter certificate. If you don't, take a look at our guide on how to get your FAA pilot certificates as a military pilot: Military Pilot FAA Certification Process . To be eligible for hire, you must also qualify for an FAA Airline Transport Pilot - Airplane Multiengine Land (ATP-AMEL) certificate. To take the ATP-AMEL practical checkride, you must first complete ATP-CTP training and pass the ATP-AMEL written exam ( read more here: What is the ATP-CTP Course? A Comprehensive Guide ). However, many airlines allow you to complete your ATP checkride alongside your final airline checkride in the simulator. Some airlines that offer this option include: SkyWest GoJet Frontier Before starting training, it's crucial to understand the requirements for your rating. Below is a chart outlining the necessary steps to meet ATP-AMEL eligibility. Commercial Pilot Airplane Single-Engine Land Certificate Training Type Hours Reference Dual 22 §61.129(a)(3) Solo 50 §61.129(a)(2)(i) Checkride 2 Instrument - Airplane Pilot Certificate Training Type Hours Reference Dual 15 §61.65(d)(2) Time with a safety pilot 25 §61.65(d)(2) Checkride 2 Airplane Multiengine Land Class Addon Training Type Hours Reference Dual Varies but on average 10 §61.63(b) Checkride 2 NOTE: These training requirements are tailored towards an applicant who already has their FAA Commercial Rotorcraft - Helicopter, Instrument - Helicopter pilot certificate, and a minimum of 178 total flight hours as a pilot. Some flight schools may suggest obtaining your Private Pilot Airplane Single-Engine Land certificate before your Commercial Pilot Airplane Single-Engine Land certificate, arguing it allows you to log 250 hours of airplane PIC time sooner for ATP eligibility. However, our cost-benefit analysis, outlined below, shows this approach would result in additional time-building on the back end and higher overall costs. Here is the cost breakdown to get your Private Pilot Airplane Single-Engine Land certificate first before getting your Commercial Pilot Airplane Single-Engine Land certificate: And here is the cost breakdown if you were to get your Commercial Pilot Airplane Single-Engine Land certificate first: According to our analysis, getting your Private Pilot Airplane Single-Engine Land certificate first would actually require 1 additional hour of time building and would cost roughly $2,400 more. Once you’ve obtained the necessary pilot certificates, your final step is meeting the aeronautical experience requirements for the Airline Transport Pilot - Airplane Multiengine Land (ATP-AMEL) practical checkride. Assuming you’re a military rotary-wing pilot, you may qualify for a restricted ATP certificate at 750 total flight hours under §61.160(a). To be eligible for the ATP-AMEL practical test, you must meet the following §61.159 requirements: 750 total flight hours 500 hours cross-country 100 hours night flight 50 hours in class (airplane multiengine land) for the rating sought 75 hours instrument flight time (actual or simulated) 250 hours PIC or SIC (under PIC supervision), including: 100 hours cross-country 25 hours night flight Once these requirements are met, you can take the ATP-AMEL practical test and become eligible for airline employment.

Becoming an airline pilot is a highly competitive process, and one of the most important stages in securing a position is the interview. Airline pilot interviews are structured, in-depth assessments that evaluate more than just flying ability—they measure technical knowledge, situational awareness, communication skills, and whether a candidate aligns with the airline's culture and values. Whether you're transitioning from the military, regional carriers, or coming from a civilian background with flight school experience, understanding the format and effective airline pilot interview preparation are essential to standing out in this critical process. Interview Format While each airline has its own unique process, most interviews follow a standard format that includes multiple phases. It often begins with a pre-screening interview, typically conducted over the phone or via video call. This is usually handled by a recruiter or human resources representative and focuses on confirming your flight experience, certificates, and general qualifications. It's also an opportunity for the airline to get a sense of your personality and communication skills early on. The main interview day, whether held in person or virtually, is generally broken into several distinct parts. One of the most important components is the Human Resources or behavioral interview. This section is designed to evaluate your interpersonal skills, professionalism, and ability to handle challenging or stressful situations. These questions often follow the STAR method—an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, and Result —to help interviewers assess how you've responded to real-life scenarios in the past. If your unfamiliar with the STAR method, read our comprehensive article covering the basics here: https://www.directtohired.com/post/how-to-answer-airline-interview-questions-using-the-star-method . You’ll likely be interviewed by a panel consisting of HR staff, line pilots, or chief pilots. Following the behavioral interview is the technical interview. This section tests your knowledge of aircraft systems, regulations, weather interpretation, performance calculations, and flight planning. You may be asked to explain the systems of aircraft you’ve flown, interpret METARs and TAFs, walk through approach plates, or answer questions related to FARs (Federal Aviation Regulations). These questions help the airline gauge your aeronautical knowledge and ability to think critically under pressure. If you are transitioning from the military, it will be important to brush up on the FARs, and specifically the FARs relating to IFR regulations and procedures found in §91.167-193. In addition to these core interviews, many airlines include cognitive or aptitude testing in their hiring process. These tests may evaluate your multitasking skills, decision-making speed, spatial reasoning, or personality traits. Some airlines use standardized tests like the Wonderlic, CCAT, or custom-built assessments to measure how well you might perform in a dynamic and demanding flight deck environment. You may also be required to complete a simulator evaluation, depending on the airline and the type of position. The simulator ride typically involves basic flight maneuvers, navigation, CRM (Crew Resource Management), and the handling of abnormal or emergency situations. The focus here is not just on flying skills, but also on checklist usage, communication, and situational awareness. NetJets is a carrier that notoriously uses simulator evaluations to judge general flying abilities as a part of the interview. They like to have applicants fly the KTEB ILS Rwy 6 approach to make sure that you can meet the crossing restriction altitudes. Interview Questions The types of questions you’ll encounter during an airline pilot interview can be categorized into behavioral, technical, scenario-based, and HR-focused questions. Behavioral questions may include, “Tell me about a time you made a mistake in the cockpit,” or “Describe a time you had a conflict with a crewmember—how did you handle it?” Technical questions can range from, “Explain the electrical system on your most recent aircraft,” to, “What are the requirements for a visual approach?” Scenario-based questions challenge you to think through real-time flight problems, such as navigating weather-related diversions or dealing with equipment failures. HR questions tend to be more general and may ask why you’re interested in that particular airline or what makes you a good cultural fit. Interview Timelines As for timing, the pre-screening call typically lasts between 20 and 40 minutes. The full interview day can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours and may even extend over multiple days depending on the airline. Simulator sessions generally last 1 to 2 hours, and cognitive testing can range from 1 to 3 hours, sometimes completed remotely in advance. Interview Strategies Successful airline pilot interview preparation requires a well-rounded strategy. Start by learning as much as you can about the airline. Research their fleet, routes, mission statement, and company culture. Talk to current pilots if possible to gain firsthand insight. When preparing for behavioral interviews, practice using the STAR method and pull from real-life examples that showcase leadership, sound judgment, and teamwork. For the technical interview, thoroughly review aircraft systems, FARs, IFR procedures, weather theory, and instrument charts. Brush up on weight and balance, takeoff performance, and emergency procedures—especially those relevant to the aircraft you've most recently flown. If your interview includes a simulator evaluation, practice chair-flying or use a desktop flight simulator to stay sharp. Focus on CRM, callouts, and handling abnormal situations professionally. Taking a few mock interviews can also be incredibly helpful. You can work with fellow pilots, mentors, or professional interview prep services to simulate the experience and get constructive feedback. Additionally, make sure all your documents are well-organized—bring updated logbooks, a polished resume, current medical and pilot certificates, and identification documents. First impressions count, so dress professionally in business attire, arrive early, and present yourself with confidence and humility. In conclusion, the airline pilot interview is a comprehensive assessment designed to test your readiness to operate in one of the most safety-critical environments in the world. By taking the time for thorough airline pilot interview preparation, and understanding the structure and expectations of the process, you’ll significantly improve your chances of making a great impression and getting hired. Approach it like a checkride: be calm, be prepared, and fly the interview like you’d fly the plane—with discipline, confidence, and professionalism.

Preparing for an airline interview can be daunting—especially when faced with behavioral questions that dig into your past experiences and decision-making. These questions are not designed to trip you up, but rather to give the airline insight into how you think, communicate, and handle real-world challenges. One of the most effective ways to answer these types of questions is by using the STAR method. The STAR method for airline pilot interviews is a structured approach that helps you deliver clear, concise, and impactful responses to behavioral questions. It allows you to share your experiences in a way that demonstrates both your competency and professionalism—two traits essential for a successful airline pilot. In this article, we’ll break down what the STAR method is, how to use it effectively, and provide several examples to guide your preparation. What is the STAR Method? STAR  stands for: S  – Situation : Set the stage by describing the context. T  – Task : Explain what your responsibility or goal was. A  – Action : Describe the steps you took to address the situation. R  – Result : Share the outcome, including what you learned or achieved. This structure keeps your answers organized and easy to follow, which is especially important in high-pressure airline pilot interviews. Why Use the STAR Method in Airline Interviews? Airlines use behavioral interviews to predict how candidates will perform in the cockpit. The STAR method for airline pilot interviews allows you to show real-world examples of how you’ve responded to challenges, resolved conflicts, and demonstrated leadership. These questions often begin with phrases like: “Tell me about a time when…” “Describe a situation where…” “Give me an example of…” Using the STAR method ensures your responses are grounded in actual experience and clearly highlight the qualities airlines are looking for. Breaking Down the STAR Method 1. Situation Start by describing the context. Keep it concise, but be sure to provide enough detail to give the interviewer a clear picture. Example:  “During my time as a flight instructor, I had a student preparing for their commercial checkride who was struggling with emergency procedures.” 2. Task Explain your role and what you were responsible for. Example:  “My goal was to ensure the student could confidently handle engine-out scenarios before their checkride.” 3. Action Describe what you did specifically. Focus on your actions, not those of others. Example:  “I created a focused training plan, broke procedures into smaller steps, and ran simulated emergencies under increasing pressure.” 4. Result Share the outcome, and highlight what was accomplished or learned. Example:  “The student passed their checkride, and I continued using the method with future students to improve performance.” Tips for Using STAR Effectively Keep it brief and focused.  Aim for 1–2 minute answers. Use real experiences.  Choose examples that reflect your own decision-making. Focus on your contribution.  Emphasize your role and what you learned. Use aviation-specific stories.  Relate experiences to CRM, safety, or leadership. Practice aloud.  Speaking your answers helps internalize them and build confidence. STAR Method Examples for Airline Interviews Example 1: Conflict with a Crewmember Question:  "Tell me about a time you had a conflict with a fellow crewmember." Answer (STAR format):   Situation:  “During a training flight, another instructor continually disregarded my weather inputs.”  Task:  “I needed to ensure we made a safe decision without creating conflict.”  Action:  “I shared objective weather data and suggested a safer alternate route.”  Result:  “We adjusted the flight path, avoided dangerous weather, and maintained professional rapport.” Example 2: Pressure and Quick Decision-Making Question:  "Describe a time you had to make a quick decision under pressure." Answer:   Situation:  “As an FO on a Part 135 flight, we had a hydraulic issue during descent.”  Task:  “I was responsible for checklist management and ATC coordination.”  Action:  “I ran the checklist, coordinated with ATC, and briefed the cabin crew.”  Result:  “We landed safely, and the chief pilot commended our CRM.” Example 3: Leadership and Initiative Question:  "Tell me about a time you took initiative." Answer:   Situation:  “Several students at my flight school struggled with crosswind landings.”  Task:  “I wanted to improve their understanding and pass rates.”  Action:  “I developed a visual workshop and hosted weekend seminars.”  Result:  “Pass rates improved, and the school adopted my material as standard.” Final Thoughts Mastering the STAR method for airline pilot interviews is one of the most powerful tools in your interview prep arsenal. It allows you to present your experience in a structured, professional manner that resonates with airline hiring teams. By preparing targeted stories, practicing delivery, and focusing on what airlines value most—leadership, decision-making, communication, and safety—you’ll be ready to stand out in your next interview. Approach it with confidence and a clear game plan, and you’ll be one step closer to the flight deck.

Understanding the Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RP) for Pilots In the United States, FAA-certified pilots are not required to have a radiotelephony license to operate high-frequency (HF) radios. This privilege is included with their pilot certification. However, when flying internationally—such as crossing into Mexico or Canada—a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RP)  becomes necessary. How to Obtain a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RP) If you're flying internationally, you may need to obtain a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RP) to meet regulatory requirements. This guide walks you through the process of applying for and obtaining the FCC permit. Key Takeaways: A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RP) is necessary for international flights. Pilots can acquire this license without taking an exam. The application process is online via the FCC, and it costs $35. What is a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit? A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RP)  from the FCC grants the holder permission to operate most aircraft and aeronautical ground station radios. As of 2024, the RP costs $35, and it does not expire, remaining valid for the lifetime of the holder. Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining the RP While you don't need to take an exam to obtain the RP, applicants must meet these basic eligibility requirements: Be a legal U.S. resident or hold a valid U.S. aircraft pilot certificate. Have the ability to speak and hear clearly. Be able to maintain at least a basic written log. Have knowledge of the applicable treaties, laws, and regulations for radio station operations. Steps to Obtain Your Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit To apply for the RP, follow these simple steps: Register with the FCC : Visit the FCC Cores website: https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do and register for an FCC Registration Number (FRN). Create an Account : After completing the registration process, you’ll automatically receive your FRN. Apply for the License : Log in to the FCC website and choose the “RR-Restricted Operator” license type. Complete Application : Fill out the required details, confirm eligibility, and agree to terms. Pay the Fee : Submit your payment of $35, and once processed, you will receive an email with a link to print your RP license. Why Do Pilots Need a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit? While FAA pilots do not need a separate radio license for domestic flights, the Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit (RP) is essential for international operations. Many ICAO member states require pilots to demonstrate proficiency in radio communication through both written and practical exams. Obtaining the RP ensures that FAA-certified pilots meet international communication standards when flying outside the U.S. If you're planning to fly for an airline, whether regional or major, securing this permit should be a priority to avoid complications in your future career.

What is the ATP-CTP Course? A Comprehensive Guide The Airline Transport Pilot Certification Training Program (ATP-CTP)  is a mandatory course required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for pilots seeking to obtain their Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. This course is an essential step for pilots wishing to transition into the airline industry, providing them with critical theoretical knowledge and practical simulator training before taking the FAA ATP knowledge exam. Purpose of the ATP-CTP Course The ATP-CTP course was introduced to enhance safety and standardization across airline operations. Specifically, the course bridges the gap between general aviation or military flying experience and the knowledge necessary to operate transport-category aircraft. Pilots will gain expertise in essential areas such as aerodynamics, weather analysis, high-altitude operations, and complex aircraft systems. This foundational training prepares pilots for the next milestone in their airline careers: taking the FAA ATP written exam. Why Was the ATP-CTP Course Created? The FAA developed the ATP-CTP course in response to growing safety concerns in the aviation industry, especially after the tragic Colgan Air Flight 3407 crash in 2009. The incident highlighted gaps in pilot training and experience. In response, the Airline Safety and FAA Extension Act of 2010 was enacted, which introduced additional training requirements for pilots. This led to the creation of the ATP-CTP program, designed to improve aviation safety by enhancing pilot training standards. What Does the ATP-CTP Course Cover? The ATP-CTP course consists of both ground school and simulator training. Here’s what pilots can expect to learn: Ground School (30 Hours) Aerodynamics and aircraft performance Meteorology and weather analysis Air carrier operations and procedures High-altitude physiology and operations Airplane systems and automation Leadership, crew resource management (CRM), and safety culture Simulator Training (10 Hours) Advanced flight maneuvers Upset prevention and recovery High-altitude operations and procedures Multi-crew coordination in a transport-category aircraft This blend of theory and practical training ensures pilots are well-prepared to begin their type rating or airline-specific training. Why is the ATP-CTP Course Essential for Airline Pilots? According to 14 CFR § 61.156  – Training Requirements for the ATP Certificate With an Airplane Category Multiengine Class Rating, pilots must complete the ATP-CTP course before taking the ATP knowledge test. This requirement ensures pilots are fully prepared for the complexities of operating commercial aircraft in a safe and efficient manner. The ATP-CTP course is crucial in providing pilots with exposure to airline-style operations and developing the decision-making, leadership, and multi-crew coordination skills necessary for flying in commercial aviation environments. It is a mandatory step for anyone wishing to serve as a captain or first officer in Part 121 airline operations. Cost of the ATP-CTP Course The cost of the ATP-CTP course varies depending on the provider. Most programs range from $3,500 to $5,500. In some cases, airlines will cover the cost of the course as part of their pilot hiring process, while other airlines may require pilots to obtain the certification independently.

FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate vs. Airline Transport Pilot Certificate: Key Differences For pilots looking to advance their careers, understanding the differences between an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate and an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate is crucial. While both certificates allow pilots to operate aircraft for compensation, they differ significantly in terms of experience, privileges, and requirements. Knowing the distinctions between these two key certifications is essential for career planning in the aviation industry. Experience Requirements The first major difference between the FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate vs. Airline Transport Pilot Certificate lies in the flight hours required. To obtain a Commercial Pilot Certificate, a pilot needs a minimum of 250 hours of total flight time. In comparison, the ATP Certificate demands a significantly higher level of experience, with a minimum of 1,500 hours of total flight time. However, some structured training programs, such as the restricted ATP, may allow pilots to qualify with slightly fewer hours. Privileges and Limitations The privileges and operational limitations associated with each certificate also vary greatly. A commercial pilot can be compensated for flying and may work in roles like banner towing, aerial photography, or corporate flying. However, a commercial pilot is restricted from acting as the captain of a scheduled airline operation under Part 121 regulations. Additionally, commercial pilots face restrictions on flying passengers at night or beyond 50 miles without an instrument rating. On the other hand, the Airline Transport Pilot Certificate represents the highest level of certification and grants the holder more privileges. ATP certificate holders are authorized to act as the captain of an airline operation under Part 121 and certain Part 135 regulations. This certificate also allows unrestricted commercial flying privileges, making it far more flexible and allowing pilots to work in more advanced roles without the limitations that a commercial certificate imposes. Training and Testing Requirements The training and testing process for the FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate vs. Airline Transport Pilot Certificate also differ. To obtain a Commercial Pilot Certificate, applicants must complete an FAA-approved ground school or equivalent training, pass a written knowledge test, and successfully complete a check ride with an FAA examiner. In contrast, the ATP Certificate requires more extensive training. Applicants must complete an ATP Certification Training Program (ATP-CTP), which includes both ground school and simulator training. Additionally, ATP candidates must pass a more challenging written knowledge test and undergo a comprehensive check ride, which evaluates advanced flight maneuvers, aeronautical decision-making skills, and crew resource management. Career Progression Many pilots earn their Commercial Pilot Certificate early in their careers to start working as professional pilots. They often gain experience as flight instructors, corporate pilots, or regional airline first officers before accumulating the necessary experience to qualify for an ATP Certificate. The FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate vs. Airline Transport Pilot Certificate decision is critical in the path toward career advancement. The ATP Certificate is required for those who want to become airline captains or pursue more advanced commercial flight operations. While the Commercial Pilot Certificate is a significant milestone, the ATP Certificate represents the pinnacle of pilot certification and is necessary for higher-level aviation careers.

So, you're beginning the process of transitioning from flying for the military to a career in civil aviation. Congratulations! The first step in this process is to obtain your FAA pilot certificate. Below are the steps you need to complete to have the FAA issue you a pilot certificate based on your military flight training. Step 1: Military Competency Non-Category (MCN) Exam This 50-question multiple-choice exam covers a wide range of FAA and CFR-related topics, including both airplane and helicopter-specific questions, as well as FAA regulations that may differ from military rules. The exam can be taken at FAA-approved centers or some military testing centers (typically free). It costs around $175 at FAA centers but is often free at military centers. The test draws from a question bank of nearly 1,000 items. To prepare, we recommend the Sheppard Air study guide ($45), which covers the full question bank: Sheppard Air MCN Study Guide . Their method has helped many pilots score above 95% on FAA written tests. Step 2: Getting Your FAA Ratings Once you pass the MCN exam, you can apply for the FAA ratings based on your military aircraft experience. This includes obtaining a Commercial Pilot Certificate (e.g., Airplane Multi-Engine Land, Rotorcraft Helicopter) and an Instrument Rating (Instrument-Airplane). You may also be eligible for a type rating based on your military aircraft (e.g., KC-135 to B-707). To check eligibility for a type rating, refer to the FAA PILOT CERTIFICATE AIRCRAFT TYPE DESIGNATIONS – AIRPLANE chart (Google it). You can’t simply apply to add any rating to your certificate. According to 14 CFR 61.73(b), to qualify for a rating, you must: Have passed a U.S. military pilot and instrument proficiency check for the aircraft category and class you're applying for, or Have logged at least 10 hours of flight time in that category, class, and type (if applicable). Step 3: Apply Through IACRA To initiate the process, visit the FAA’s IACRA site to apply for your desired rating. Create an account, receive your FTN number, and submit your application. Keep your FTN number safe, as it’s essential for processing your certificate. Note for V-22, F-35B, and AV-8 Harrier pilots: V-22 (Osprey) pilots  are eligible to receive the following FAA commercial pilot certificate ratings via military competency (based solely on the V-22): Powered-Lift Instrument Powered-Lift Airplane Multi-Engine Land Instrument Airplane AV-8 (Harrier) and F-35B STOVL pilots  are eligible for the following FAA commercial pilot certificate ratings via military competency (based solely on those aircraft): Powered-Lift Instrument Powered-Lift Airplane Single-Engine Land Instrument Airplane Step 4: Schedule a Review with a FSDO or DPE After submitting your IACRA application, schedule an appointment with a FSDO or DPE to review your application and issue a temporary certificate while your permanent one is processed. Many FSDOs now offer video consultations. Use the FAA’s FSDO search website to find the FSDO that serves your area: FAA FSDO Search . Documents Needed for FSDO Review: ID : Refer to the approved list of documents here . Proof of Military Pilot Status : Acceptable documents include: An official U.S. Armed Forces aeronautical order of flight status as a rated military pilot An official U.S. Armed Forces form or logbook showing flight status as a rated military pilot An official U.S. Armed Forces aeronautical order showing graduation from a U.S. Armed Forces pilot training school An official U.S. Armed Forces record showing the completion of a pilot proficiency check and instrument proficiency check in an aircraft Acceptable records for the above: Air Force : Individual flight crew record (computer printout), AF Form 8 (Certificate of Aircrew Qualification) Army : ARMY Form DA-759 (Individual Flight Record and Flight Certificate) Coast Guard : OPNAVFORM 3710-31 (Aviators Flight Log Book) Navy and Marine Corps : OPNAVFORM 3760-31 (Aviators Flight Logbook), OPNAV 3710/2 (NATOPS Instrument Rating Request) MCN Test Report : Proof of passing the written exam. Example: U.S. Army Blackhawk Helicopter Pilot If you're a U.S. Army Blackhawk pilot applying for an FAA Commercial Pilot certificate, you will be applying for an FAA Commercial Rotorcraft-Helicopter certificate, an Instrument-Rotorcraft certificate, and an S-70 type rating. Once you complete these steps, you'll be officially an FAA-certificated Commercial Pilot—an essential step in transitioning to a civilian aviation career.