American Airlines (AA) is the biggest airline company in the United States, with over 900 aircraft and 15,000 pilots. In addition, the airline company caters to over 50 countries.
AMR Corporation, established in 1982, is the parent company of American Airlines. In addition, AMR Corporation has multiple holdings ranging from the hotel industry to other airline-related businesses.
As one of the most prominent airline companies in the world, it is no surprise that many people who dream of becoming pilots want to work for American Airlines.
How exactly do you become a pilot for the company?
You can work as a pilot for American Airlines by completing your training through the American Airlines Cadet Academy if you have no prior experience in flying.
If you are experienced, you can directly apply as a licensed pilot at American Airlines.
This article will discuss how to apply to American Airlines and the benefits of training through the American Airlines Cadet Academy. Read on!
American Airlines Pilot Application
You have two means to become a pilot for American Airlines. We outlined the requirements and details below. Read on!
1. Applying Through AA Cadet Academy
If you are starting out or still investing through experiences, you can try the American Airlines Cadet Academy.
Moreover, you are assigned an American Airlines mentor to guide you through your training. You can complete your training in over 50 American Airlines Cadet Academy partner flight schools.
To be eligible for training, you should have the following requirements:
- A high school diploma or GED.
- A passport.
- Background inspection clearance.
- A first-class medical.
You should be at least 21 years old by the time you finish flight school before you are eligible to apply for American Airlines.
Moreover, it would be best if you were allowed to work in the United States. Some technical skills required are reading and writing, plus fluency in English.
2. Licensed Pilot Application Requirements
For more experienced pilots, you can directly apply to American Airlines. You should have an Airline Transport Pilot License or a Commercial Pilot License.
Licensed Pilots must be 23 years old and above. They must be able to work shifts at different times of the day. Moreover, a 20/20 vision or a near vision of 20/40 is required.
Applicants must have the following requirements:
- FAA criminal checks clearance.
- Current ATP rating.
- An FCC-restricted radiotelephone operator permit.
- A first-class medical certificate.
- A passport.
To work for American Airlines, you should have the following soft skills:
- The ability to communicate clearly.
- The ability to speak in English.
- The capacity to work with PEDs.
- Decision-making.
Benefits of AA Cadet Academy
Once eligible, you can get the chance to train at any of the 50+ partner flight schools of the American Airlines Cadet Academy and have a partner pilot mentor.
Finishing the academy training gives you a chance to be interviewed by the regional carriers of American Airlines.
If you pass the interview, you can work for any regional carrier. This is a great stepping stone to working for American Airlines.
Through flow-through agreements, you can get the chance to be transferred to American Airlines once permitted by your senior.
Takeaway
You can directly work as a pilot for American Airlines if you meet the requirements of an experienced pilot. However, if you are starting, you can opt to study through the AA Cadet Academy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take To Be an AA Pilot?
You would need a minimum of 1,500 flight hours within two years.
How Much Do AA Pilots Make?
American Airlines pilots can make around $150,000 yearly.