Ready to upgrade from the Private Certificate to the Commercial and make money while flying? I can help you.

Why should I get my Commercial?

Plain and simple, it’s required if you ever want to Flight Instruct or make money while flying. If you’re taking compensation as a private pilot……………………………well, you’re wrong. Let’s fix that.

What’s Required?

Requirements for the Commercial are outlined in Part 61 Subpart F:

Basics:

18 Years of Age

English Language Proficiency

Private Pilot in the Current Category / Class

Pass a Written Knowledge Test

Pass an Examination from an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner

Aeronautical Experience (61.129a)-

250 Total Time of which:

50 Hours in airplanes

50 Hours of Cross Country - 10 In Airplanes

20 Hours of Dual Instruction (Minimum) of which:

10 Hours of Instrument Instruction (Must be logged as towards 61.129)

10 hours of instruction in a Technically Advanced Aircraft or Complex Aircraft

2 Hour day, 2 hour Night Cross Country

10 Hours of Solo of which:

Cross Country flight not less than 300 NM with landings at three points

5 hours in Night VFR with 10 takeoffs and 10 landings in a traffic pattern with an operating Control Tower

How much does it cost?

This is entirely subjective to the individual but I would recommend you budget $10,000-$15,000

At a minimum, it will take 20 hours of dual instruction and however much more to be proficient

How long will it take?

Entirely subjective, but I would recommend budget 3 - 6 months to complete

How frequently will we fly?

This is up to you. I am a full time flight instructor and am pretty flexible. Generally, I suggest two flights a week and a ground instruction lesson.

Advantage for the Instrument Rating is that the weather that might obstruct training in SoCal is what we’re looking to experience. Nights and Early mornings are on the table.

Other Considerations / recommendations

TAA vs Complex ? I highly recommend that you either begin your commercial training with a complex endorsement completed or that you do the 10 hours required for 61.129a in a complex trainer.

Instrument rating first? The Commercial Rating DOES NOT require an instrument rating. HOWEVER I highly recommend you earn your Instrument Rating prior to completing your Commercial. A Commercial Rating without an Instrument Rating has certain limitations which might restrict your employability.