Definition:
A commercial licence allows a pilot to be compensated for the carriage of persons or property, which starts to open employment opportunities.

Minimum Training Requirements: reference the links below for more details.
  • Private Pilot License
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • 3rd Class Medical Certificate
  • 250 hrs. flight time as a pilot
  • Minimum of 100 hrs powered aircraft
  • Minimum of 50 hrs in airplanes
  • Minimum of 10 hrs in a complex airplane
  • Minimum of 50 hrs cross-country time
  • Specified Cross-Country Flights
  • Specified landings
  • Applicant must pass applicable written, oral, and practical tests

Opportunities:
A commercial license is required for all flight operations requiring compensation. This allows a pilot, with certain restriction, to work for an airline or charter service. Without an instrument rating, a pilot is severely limited; a non-instrument rated commercial pilot cannot carry passengers at night, or passengers/property in excess of 50 miles from their airline, cargo company, or charter service.

Careers:
As an instrument rated commercial pilot, the doors of opportunity are opened. In addition, any piloting careers are limited by a company’s insurance requirements. Most airlines, cargo, and charter companies have similar requirements.