An aircraft is a machine or
vehicle that is capable of atmospheric flight. A pilot is a person who
controls that machine or vehicle. There are pilots for all types of
aircraft: airplanes, helicopters, gliders, airships, ultra-lights, balloons, and
even spacecraft. Pilots are specially trained to operate specific aircraft
types
in normal, high-performance, abnormal, and emergency situations in different
weather situations.
Some large complex aircraft such as airliners require two (sometimes three) pilots to
fly.
Training for most pilots is
regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Commercial pilots are pilots that have been certified by the FAA to fly
passengers and/or cargo for hire. Commercial
pilots have a variety of professional careers options:
Age requirements for pilot
certifications:
Private Pilot (non-hire):
at least 17 years old; 16 years old to operate an aircraft solo as a student
pilot.
Commercial Pilot (for-hire): at least 18 years old
Certified Flight Instructor: at least 18 years old
Airline Transport Pilot: at least 23 years old; maximum 59 years
old.
Pilots must also hold an
FAA
Medical Certificate to ensure physical fitness for flight.
