Estimated Training

Commercial Pilot Certificate

A clean look at the typical flight time, commercial-specific training, and training path for earning your Commercial Pilot Certificate.

Total Flight Time
0H
0
Minimum Age for Certificate
0H
Commercial-Specific Training
0
Average Number of Lessons
$0
Average Cost per Lesson

Estimates vary by student schedule, weather, aircraft availability, previous experience, and individual progress.

Minimum Flight Time Requirements

Total Flight Time as a Pilot
250 Hours
Flight Time in Powered Aircraft
100 Hours
Flight Time in Airplanes
50 Hours
Commercial Flight Instruction*
  • ☼ One 2-hour XC flight in a single-engine airplane in daytime conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more than 100nm from the original point of departure.
  • ☾ One 2-hour XC flight in a single-engine airplane in nighttime conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more than 100nm from the original point of departure.
20 Hours
Instrument Flight Training
10 Hours
Training in a Complex or Technically Advanced Airplane
  • ✈ Training may be completed in a complex airplane, technically advanced airplane, or other approved aircraft meeting FAA requirements.
10 Hours
Solo Flight or Time Performing Duties of PIC with a CFI Onboard
10 Hours
Night VFR Flight Time
  • ⌁ Including 10 takeoffs and 10 landings, with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern at an airport with an operating control tower.
5 Hours
*Three hours of flight training must be conducted within the 2 calendar months preceding the practical test.

Eligibility Requirements

Commercial Pilot Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Hold a current Private Pilot Certificate.
  • Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
  • Receive instructor endorsements for written and practical tests.
  • Pass the FAA Instrument Knowledge Test (if not already instrument-rated).
  • Pass the FAA Practical Test, including the oral exam and checkride.
  • Meet aeronautical knowledge requirements of 14 CFR §61.125 .
  • Demonstrate flight proficiency under 14 CFR §61.127 .
  • Meet aeronautical experience requirements of 14 CFR §61.129 .

Modern Training

Technically Advanced Aircraft

In 2018, the FAA updated the commercial pilot requirements, allowing applicants to train in Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA) instead of older “complex” airplanes.

A TAA combines modern avionics, GPS navigation, and integrated autopilot systems to better prepare pilots for today's flight decks.
  • Primary Flight Display (PFD): Continuously visible electronic flight instruments.
  • Multifunction Display (MFD): Moving-map GPS navigation with aircraft position.
  • Two-Axis Autopilot: Integrated with heading and navigation guidance.

At Rich Aviation Services, you'll have access to glass-cockpit aircraft that reflect the technology you'll fly professionally, ensuring your training remains relevant, efficient, and forward-looking.

Start Commercial Training

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Commercial Pilot do?

Commercial pilots are trained professionals who oversee the safe and efficient operation of aircraft for passengers, cargo, or specialized missions. Depending on their training and career path, they may fly for charter operations, aerial survey and photography, agricultural missions, or medical flights. Many begin their careers as Certified Flight Instructors, helping the next generation of pilots take flight.

At Rich Aviation Services, we prepare you for this level of flying with advanced instruction in aircraft systems, aerodynamics, and safety procedures — giving you the confidence to handle complex maneuvers, emergency procedures, and professional operations.

What are the requirements to earn a Commercial Pilot Certificate?

To become a commercial pilot, you’ll need to meet both basic eligibility and aeronautical experience requirements:

Basic requirements:

Be at least 18 years old

Hold a Private Pilot Certificate

Hold a valid FAA Second- or First-Class Medical Certificate

Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English

Aeronautical experience requirements:

250 total hours of flight time (minimum)

100 hours in powered aircraft (50 in airplanes)

100 hours as Pilot in Command (50 in airplanes, 50 cross-country)

20 hours of commercial training, including:

10 hours instrument training

10 hours in a complex or Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA)

One daytime and one nighttime 2-hour cross-country flight (over 100 nm each)

One solo cross-country of at least 300 nm with landings at 3 airports

5 hours night flying, including 10 takeoffs and landings at a towered airport

Exams required:

FAA Commercial Pilot Knowledge Test (written)

FAA Practical Exam (oral + flight checkride)

What is a Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA), and why does it matter?

Instead of training in outdated “complex” aircraft, commercial applicants can now use Technically Advanced Aircraft (TAA) — modern airplanes with glass cockpits and autopilots.

At Rich Aviation Services, our fleet includes Garmin-equipped Skyhawks and advanced avionics platforms, giving you hands-on experience in the technology you’ll encounter in real-world commercial flying.

What are the steps to earning a Commercial Pilot Certificate?

Meet the prerequisites — Be at least 18, hold a Private Pilot Certificate, and have your FAA medical.

Enroll in ground training — Learn advanced topics such as aerodynamics, regulations, and systems.

Build flight experience — Log 250 hours, including cross-country, night, and instrument time.

Train in a TAA or complex aircraft — Master advanced systems and procedures.

Pass your checkride — Complete both the oral and flight exam with a designated examiner.

Continue advancing — Many graduates go on to earn instructor ratings, multi-engine privileges, or begin building time for airline requirements.

What career opportunities open up with a Commercial Pilot Certificate?

With your Commercial Pilot Certificate, you can:

Work as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII/MEI)

Fly for charter or air taxi operators

Build time toward the airlines

Pursue specialized flying such as aerial photography, agriculture, or survey work

Transition into corporate aviation or business jet flying

What is the average salary of a commercial pilot?

Commercial pilot salaries vary depending on the path you choose. Entry-level jobs (such as instruction or local charter flying) may start around $25,000–$40,000 per year, while experienced corporate or airline pilots can earn well into the six figures. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong job growth in the field, making commercial aviation a rewarding long-term career.