PPRuNe Forums - Qualifications to become commercial pilot?

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camden2

6th Sep 2019 00:07

Qualifications to become commercial pilot?

Hi guys,
Dilemma- I have recently received my A level results, CDD. C in business, D in Maths, D in bio. I hated college

The plan was to work for a year to raise some capital to help finance my flight training. I am considering to continue studying Maths a level at home while i am working and resit the exam next summer to try and obtain a better grade.
In my gcses i achieved 7A's 2B's.

How important are A levels in becoming a commercial pilot and specifically securing that first job?
Will my A level grades hold me back?

Ronaldsway Radar

6th Sep 2019 12:09

Hi Camden

With the exception of some of British Airways' past schemes, I am yet to remember another UK based airline which has specifically asked for A-Levels as part of their application requirements.

I wouldn't consider it a factor. Your flying ability, personality/aptitude and ATPL results are far more important. So no, they won't hold you back in the slightest.

RR

Sleepybhudda

6th Sep 2019 13:22

I achieved less A-level than you with C and an E, I just wasn't interested only wanted to fly.

I'm now the Head of Training of an ATO having flown for turbo-prop airlines. Holding Instructor and Examiner quals.

You'll be fine as long as your motivated and work hard.

Good Luck

camden2

6th Sep 2019 13:32

Thanks for the replies, i have been on a couple of flying lessons and I'm going to get booked in for a Class 1 before i make any life plans....

It seems a big gamble choosing a career having just turned 18, however i am passionate i want to do this. I am not from a particularly wealthy family so i will have to work hard (swim coaching/teaching/lifeguarding) in order to fund the training.

rudestuff

6th Sep 2019 19:06

Good choice. If you want it you can make it happen. Do it right and you'll be qualified and looking for flying jobs just as your mates are graduating with a degree in Mickey Mouse and applying to Burger King.

TryingToAvoidCBs

8th Sep 2019 23:08

I was openly banned from entering sixth form due to poor GCSEs (3xBs, 4xDs, 2xEs), even the local college wouldn't let me to A-levels, so I got stuck with a vocational qualification instead. It didn't stop me. Still managed to get into Uni and spent years working toward my goal. Now happily sitting in the RHS.
I know a training Captain that dropped out of school at 16 with virtually no qualifications at all (wouldn't recommend going that far).

Passion, Patience and deep pockets are all you need :ok:

Good luck

Black Pudding

9th Sep 2019 18:32

camdem2

I am also from Manchester.

I left school with average grades, nothing amazing. Your results will not be a problem at all, only if you applied to someone like BA.

I did not decide I wanted to become a commercial pilot until I was aged 31. I remortgaged the house and spent 6 years doing modular route whilst maintaining a full time job.

I gained my first commercial job flying 737s at the age of 39 with 440 hours light aircraft.

You have all the time in the world to get where you want to be. School results will not hold you back. Get a good earning job, save and take each step as it comes.

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