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How to become a Commercial Pilot in South Africa

Operates aircraft for commercial airlines, charter and cargo.

Step-by-step path

  1. STEP 1
    Education
    Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
    1–6 yrs
  2. STEP 2
    Entry job
    First role: Flight Instructor
    0–2 yrs
  3. STEP 3
    Mid-level growth
    Move into: First Officer (regional)
    3–6 yrs
  4. STEP 4
    Senior transition
    Reach: First Officer (airline)
    7+ yrs

Time estimate

Total typical time to senior level
~ 7–10 years
Education commercial pilot licence (cpl), then practical experience.

Salary growth timeline

Year 1
R35 000
/month
Year 5
R95 000
/month
Year 10
R160 000
/month

Required skills by stage

FOUNDATIONAL
  • Instrument RatingHigh
  • Multi-engine ratingHigh
MID-CAREER
  • Multi-engine ratingHigh
  • ATPL theoryHigh
SENIOR
  • ATPL theoryHigh
  • Crew Resource ManagementMedium

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