How much it will cost to become a commercial pilot in U S A?

Question

Is it cheaper any where in the world? In India it costs about
Rs.18 lakhs i.e $45000.

Answer 1

Both of the posts above are incorrect!
1) Foreign students may still train in the USA, however they must get a background check and be approved for a special visa. Additionally, they can ony fly at a school approved to instruct foreign pilots. Find out more about the "Alien Flight Training Rule" at http://www.flightschoolcandidates.gov

2) It doesn't cost $100,000 as posted unless you are doing a university program as well.

Yes, it is generally cheaper in the USA but depending on the school one pickas at can range anywhere from $35,000-$85,000. The higher end programs are often a rip off though. They take advantage of students who don't know it can be had cheaper.

A school that should be on the approved list is ATP. I suggest checking out their program as it is at the bottom of the price range. ($40,000) http://www.atpflightschool.com
as well as Mesa Pilot Development http://www.flightcareers.com

As an aspiring pilot in India, I suggest http://www.indianpilots.com

Answer 2

I would say 50-80k just for flight ratings private through CFI-II-MEI. Then you work to build the hours for ATP. You should really get a 4 year degree, it doesn't matter if the degree is in aviation though. I have several friends that went to Minnesota State in Mankato. They seem to have a good program and a lot of friendly people/instructors (at least those I've met). Several years ago I looked into doing my commercial, multi and CFIs at a place out of Flying Cloud called Thunderbird Aviation. At the time they seemed like a pretty good school, part 141 and a really good selection of aircraft, and price seemed average for a midwest flight school. I've been into their FBO a couple times in the last year and have struck up conversations with some of their instructors and they seem knowledgeable and friendly. If you decide to do your ratings at a college or big flight school I would recommend getting private & maybe instrument beforehand at a small FBO flight school (maybe T-bird Aviation depending on what prices are like now). Usually prices are lower than the big schools/ I just gave my dad his private license in a c152 for $77/hour. You can find an older 172 or archer for in the $100-110 price range sometimes. It took him about 55 hours and if I would have charged him for my time probably would have cost around $6500 vs the $9500+ that a lot of places are quoting now. I'm not sure if you can get a deal that good in the Twin Cities. If you're paying by the hour for ground instruction, come prepared to lessons and study material ahead of time - at the $30-$50/hour that CFIs charge for ground you can save a lot by cutting ground instruction time by a few hours per rating.

Answer 3

Study Pilot In Usa

Answer 4

You are better-off staying in India for two reasons. First, after September 11, 2001's events, foreign students are no longer allowed to fly in the US. Second, even if you were allowed to fly, you would have to be prepared to spend well over $100,000 to complete the visual and instrument ratings, commercial (single-engine), and multi-engine ratings. You would then need ratings in all jets leading up to airline jets. You would need at least 1500 multiengine PIC hours to be considered for a job.

Answer 5

Interesting topic!

Answer 6

Yes, it is less expensive in the U.S., but you MUST become a citizen first.

Answer 7

Well, it depends..