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How to Support Your Child in Becoming a Pilot: A Parent’s Guide

By Dan
Pilot Training


Is your child dreaming of the skies? Aviation can be one of the most rewarding and inspiring career paths, but it can also leave parents full of questions. If you’re wondering how to support your child in becoming a pilot, this blog post will walk you through the essentials. From flight training options and licensing milestones to the realities of the industry, we’ll help you feel confident navigating this journey as a family.

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1. Understanding the Pilot Pathway

Becoming a pilot is more than just flying lessons—it’s a structured process with clearly defined licenses and training milestones. Most students start with a Private Pilot License (PPL), followed by advanced certifications like Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and potentially a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating. Each step includes written exams, flight hour requirements, and checkrides with FAA examiners.

While there are many paths, most aspiring pilots eventually reach 250 flight hours for commercial certification—or as few as 190 hours under a Part 141 school.

2. Flight Training Options for Young Aviators

There are several flight training options to consider:

  • Part 61 schools Such as Oshkosh Aviation offer flexible, one-on-one instruction.
  • Part 141 schools are more structured and often better for full-time students.
  • University aviation programs provide a college degree and flight training.
  • High school aviation STEM programs are growing and can spark early interest.

Some students begin flying at 15 or 16 and can solo at 16, earning their PPL by 17.

3. The Costs—and How to Manage Them

Flight training is a major investment. The cost to become a commercial pilot can range from $60,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the route taken. Parents should be aware of financial aid options:

  • Scholarships (many specific to aviation)
  • 529 funds (for accredited programs)
  • GI Bill (for military families)
  • Loans (personal or through partnered schools)

Budgeting early and exploring creative funding solutions can make a big difference.

We have a whole post series on the Costs of Pilot Training.

4. Health and Medical Requirements

To become a pilot, your child must pass an FAA medical exam, with three levels:

  • First Class (for airline captains)
  • Second Class (for commercial pilots)
  • Third Class (for private pilots)

Most young students only need a Third Class Medical Certificate to start. Vision, hearing, and general physical health are evaluated.

5. Encouraging Without Pushing

One of the most important roles a parent can play is support without pressure. Encourage consistent study habits, help them balance school with flying, and create a stable environment for them to pursue this demanding goal. Celebrate small wins—like first solos or written test passes—and be there for the setbacks.

Aviation isn’t always easy. Some days will be frustrating. But with your backing, your child will be better prepared for the long haul.

6. Long-Term Career Outlook

Aviation careers can be exciting, but they’re also cyclical. Pilot hiring depends on factors like:

  • Airline growth
  • Economic health
  • Global travel trends
  • Retirement waves

Boeing’s annual 20-year forecast predicts the world will need hundreds of thousands of new pilots, particularly in Asia-Pacific and North America. While no path guarantees a six-figure job right away, the long-term outlook is still very positive.

7. Join the Aviation Community

Getting involved in the local or online aviation community can be incredibly helpful. Look into:

  • EAA Young Eagles flights (free flights for youth)
  • Local airport events or airshows
  • Mentorship programs and aviation clubs
  • Online forums and parent groups

Exposure to mentors, role models, and real pilots helps your child stay motivated—and helps you better understand their world.

Conclusion

Supporting your child in becoming a pilot doesn’t mean you need to know everything about aviation. It means showing up, asking questions, and learning alongside them. Whether they fly for fun, for a career, or just as a stepping stone in life, your encouragement makes all the difference.

To dive deeper, download our full Parent's Guide to Becoming a Pilot