Becoming a Newly Rated Commercial Single-Engine Pilot

The climb to commercial ensures you are proficient, knowledgeable, and thorough in your flying.

Richard Donaldson

Wednesday, March 01, 2023 at 06:35 PM ET

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The climb to commercial ensures you are proficient, knowledgeable, and thorough in your flying. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The author achieved a commercial single-engine pilot certificate in under two years, investing $55,000-$60,000, and plans to pursue instructor ratings (CFI/MEI) to build hours and offset future costs for Part 135 operations.
The commercial rating is described as the "apex" of fundamental flying knowledge, placing pilots in an exclusive group (top 37% of US pilots) capable of earning money, and is a crucial step towards advanced certifications and career opportunities.
The article compares Part 61 (independent) and Part 141 (structured school) flight training, recommending Part 61 for self-motivated individuals due to its cost-effectiveness, while noting Part 141's advantage in qualifying for a restricted ATP at 1,000 hours.

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I just passed my commercial single-engine airplane check ride on January 6. I started flying with the initial intent of just passing my private, but got hooked as I progressed. I always have enjoyed teaching as a way of hyper-learning, so I knew I was interested in going the CFI route (I have been a ski & scuba instructor in the past).

My first actual logged lesson was March 31, 2021. I then received my private pilot certification on October 15, 2021, and then went on to complete my instrument rating on August 22, 2022. This was all through Part 61 schools at Leopard Aviation and Scottsdale Executive Flight Training at Scottsdale Airport (KSDL). Most of my instructors came from Part 141 programs.