Learn to Fly
Learn to fly
The first step in beginning a career as a pilot is to complete initial flight training. With the Cadet Academy, you will join other cadets to train at one of our trusted partner schools. Your initial flight training will include the following licenses and ratings:
- private pilot
- instrument rating
- commercial pilot
- multi-engine rating
- certified flight instructor
- certified flight instructor -instrument
Build Time
Build time
You will then build the necessary flight hours in order to be hired by a regional airline. Most cadets build hours by becoming a certified flight instructor, where you can get paid to teach others how to fly.
Fly for a Regional Airline
Fly for a Regional Airline
Once you reach 1,500 total flight hours you will be eligible to join one of American Airlines Group wholly-owned regional airlines: Envoy, Piedmont, and PSA. These regionals have a contractual flow agreement with American Airlines guaranteeing you a First Officer position with American Airlines.
Fly for American Airlines
Fly for American Airlines
Most new hires to American come directly from our regional partners. But it’s not the $90K average salary their first year that makes American the destination for new hires. It’s the chance to pilot the largest aircraft to the most destinations globally, while being supported by the largest airline in the world.
Income Potential
Training
TrainingAs a cadet, you will use the first 12 months of your journey to complete all of your licenses, ratings and certifications.
Hour Building
Hour Building After you complete your training, you begin building flight hours toward your 1500 hour minimums! Most cadets do this by working as a paid flight instructor. Industry average for flight instructors is currently between $55,000-$65,000 per year! Not only are you getting paid to build your flight time, you are building your experience and knowledge as you instruct.
Regional First Officer
Regional First Officer When you reach 1500 hours, you are eligible to join one of the American Airlines regional airlines: Envoy, PSA, or Piedmont. By continuing with American Airlines Group, you will receive a competitive starting salary, benefits, and so much more. This first airline position allows you to set the stage for the rest of your career.
Regional Captain
Upgrading to Captain is your first chance officially to be in command of a commercial aircraft! This comes with extra responsibility and is a prestigious moment in every pilot’s career.
American Airlines First Officer
Once we welcome you to American Airlines, you are set for the rest of your career! Now your income will steadily rise as you change aircraft and eventually, upgrade to captain. As you get comfortable with your aircraft and base, this is the time to start investing in the company and looking for ways to get involved!
American Airlines Captain
Congratulations! You have reached the pinnacle of your pilot career! Working as a captain at American Airlines is the ultimate goal for most pilots. Not only do you have an extremely lucrative job, but your quality of life, opportunities within the company, aircraft options, and potential destinations are endless.