Private Pilot or Commercial Pilot License: Which One Should You Choose?

 

A career as a pilot is highly rewarding and exciting. But, instead of choosing a full-time career, you can also be a recreational pilot. There are commercial pilot license and private pilot license to help you pursue your dream. Both licenses open the door to flying, but they differ significantly in purpose, training requirements, cost, and career potential.

Let’s read on to help you decide which is right for you.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

A Private Pilot License allows you to fly for personal or recreational purposes. You can carry passengers and share flight costs, but you cannot be paid for flying. It’s often the first step in aviation training. The PPL cost is also lower than commercial pilot license cost.

Training expectations:

•         Minimum flight time should be 40–60 hours (varies by country)
•         Cost varies (somewhere between $10,000–$20,000)
•         Cannot receive compensation for flying
•         Requires a Class 2 or 3 medical certificate
•        Ideal for personal travel, leisure flying, or flight training progression

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

A Commercial Pilot License is for you if you want to make a career out of flying. It authorizes you to be paid for your services as a pilot. CPL holders can work as flight instructors, charter pilots, crop dusters, or eventually move into airline jobs with additional qualifications.

Key features of a CPL:

•          Minimum flight time should be 200–250 hours (varies by country)
•          Cost is higher (typically $30,000–$70,000 or more)
•          Can receive compensation for flying
•          Requires a Class 1 medical certificate
•          Often includes more advanced maneuvers and systems training

PPL or CPL?

It all depends on your career goals and aspirations. If you want to make a full-time career in flying, you must opt for CPL. PPL, on the other hand, is suitable for those who want to fly for fun or as a hobby.

Whether you need PPL cost or training information, contact STP Flight, a premier flight school in Saint Paul, MN (KSTP).

located at the Saint Paul Flight Center at Holman Field in Saint Paul, MN (KSTP)