The path to the airlines is a sequence: Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial, often instructor ratings, then time building to ATP minimums. Knowing the order and the cost of each step makes the path manageable. Here is a simple plan to start 2027.
The Sequence
- Private Pilot: $11,750
- Instrument Rating: $11,500
- Commercial Single: $3,125
- Multi-Engine Add-On: $5,125
- CFI: $4,250 (optional)
- Time building to 1,500 hours
See flight training and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What order should I earn certificates in?
Private, Instrument, Commercial, then optional instructor ratings and multi-engine, then time building.
Do I need to become an instructor?
No. Many pilots instruct to build time, but dedicated time building is another path.
What does each step cost?
PPL $11,750, Instrument $11,500, Commercial single $3,125, plus books and exam fees. See the pricing page for all.