Do You Need a College Degree to Become a Commercial Pilot?

The short answer? No.
You do not need a college degree to become a commercial pilot — or even to fly for many regional and corporate airlines.

✈️ What the FAA Requires

To become a commercial pilot, the FAA requires:

• A Commercial Pilot Certificate

• A minimum of 250 flight hours

• Passing a written knowledge test and practical checkride

A degree is not part of the FAA’s requirements.

🛫 What About the Airlines?

Major airlines may prefer or require a degree — especially for competitive positions with legacy carriers like Delta or United. However:

• Many regional airlines hire without a degree

• Corporate, charter, and cargo operators rarely require one

• Some majors have removed degree requirements entirely to expand access

💡 So What Should You Focus On?

Instead of worrying about college, new pilots should prioritize:

• High-quality flight instruction

• Building hours through smart time-building strategies

• Earning advanced ratings like Instrument and Commercial

• Developing professionalism and decision-making early

At Clancy Aviation Co., we help you focus on what matters most: learning to fly safely, efficiently, and confidently — no diploma required.