Starting a career as a business jet pilot is an exciting yet challenging journey, especially if you’ve just graduated from flight school. Transitioning from a student pilot to the flight deck of a high-performance business jet requires dedication, strategic planning, and a solid understanding of the industry.
This article outlines the key steps, from obtaining your Second-in-Command (SIC) qualification to building hours, and eventually moving into the coveted Pilot-in-Command (PIC) position.
The fastest way to get started in business aviation is by obtaining your SIC rating on a jet. The SIC rating allows you to co-pilot jet aircraft under the supervision of a PIC. Many pilots start their business jet careers by flying as SIC, especially on corporate and charter operations.
Here’s what you need:
Private Pilot License (PPL) with Instrument Rating: You should already hold these before even considering an SIC course. Most business jets operate under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), so your need to have ability to handle instrument approaches.
Multi-Engine Rating: Most jets are multi-engine, so you’ll need a multi-engine rating before being eligible for an SIC position.
Also you have to be experienced in a multi-crew environment.
Accumulate PIC Hours in Cessna 172: Most pilots log extensive flight hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) in the C172 to gain experience. Focus on accumulating cross-country, night, and instrument time, as these will bring your transition to more advanced aircraft.
Fly in a Twin or Small Turbo-Prop: Transitioning from a single-engine aircraft like the C172 to a twin-engine or turboprop, such as the Beechcraft Duchess or Piper Seneca, is a good intermediate step. These aircraft will help you learn to manage the complexities of multi-engine systems.
Once you have your SIC rating, the next major hurdle is accumulating enough hours to transition into the role of PIC. Part 135 (charter) operations generally require a higher number of flight hours, so focusing on building your time is essential.
Type Rating for Jets: To fly jets, you need a type rating for the specific aircraft you wish to fly (e.g., Cessna Citation, Gulfstream IV, etc.). Type ratings can be completed at FAA-approved training centers.
A Commercial Pilot License (CPL)* is required if you plan to be compensated for flying, such as in commercial operations, charters, or corporate aviation.
* If you’re not planning to fly a jet for hire or for compensation, having a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) isn’t required. If you want to buy your own jet and fly it yourself, you don’t need a CPL. Similarly, if you’re flying without earning compensation, a CPL isn’t necessary. There are many examples of pilots with just a Private Pilot License (PPL), an Instrument Rating (IR), and a Multi-Engine (ME) rating who fly their own jets.
There are several notable examples of private individuals who own and fly their jets without a Commercial Pilot License (CPL):
ELON MUSK
Well-known entrepreneur and the founder of companies SpaceX and Tesla. He owns and flies private jets, and while he has a pilot’s license, there’s no indication that he holds a CPL. He uses his jet for personal and business travel.
TOM CRUISE
The actor is also an avid pilot, known for flying various aircraft, including his own private jets. He holds a Private Pilot License with ratings for multiple types of aircraft but doesn’t fly for hire.
JOHN TRAVOLTA
A licensed private pilot with multiple ratings, Travolta owns several jets, including a Boeing 707, and flies them for personal use. He doesn’t fly commercially but is passionate about aviation as a hobby.
HARRISON FORD
The actor is another PPL holder who flies his own planes, including jets and helicopters, for personal enjoyment rather than compensation.
These examples show that many high-profile individuals with a passion for aviation choose to fly jets under a Private Pilot License (PPL) with additional ratings, rather than pursuing a CPL, since they’re not flying for commercial purposes.
Here’s what you should know:
You can start logging SIC flight time, build experience and advance toward a Pilot-in-Command (PIC) position in the future.
Many pilots achieve this by taking entry-level jobs flying small aircraft in charter or corporate settings, such as turboprops, before moving on to jets. Another option is working as a flight instructor or flying for regional airlines to accumulate hours.
After you’ve accumulated enough flight hours, you can begin transitioning into the role of PIC on a jet. This is a significant step up, as it places you in full command of the aircraft. Here’s what you need to prepare for:
Advanced Operational Knowledge: In the PIC role, you’ll need to have a deep understanding of high-altitude operations, pressurization systems, and complex avionics. Additionally, managing a flight crew, working with corporate or VIP clients, and ensuring regulatory compliance will all become part of your daily duties.
Networking is crucial in business aviation. Many pilots land their first job through recommendations or personal connections. Attending industry events, joining aviation organizations like the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), and staying active in aviation communities can help open doors.
Flexibility is also key. In the beginning, you might have to accept jobs flying turboprops or smaller jets before advancing to larger business jets like a Gulfstream, Cessna Citation or Falcon series. Many successful Corporate Pilots started out flying for regional airlines, charter companies, or private owners.
Gain Diverse Experience: Don’t shy away from flying different aircraft. Experience in various types of planes and operational environments makes you a more adaptable and desirable candidate.
Get Mentorship: Seek advice from seasoned professionals in the business aviation industry. Their insights into hiring practices, career growth, and industry trends can be invaluable.
Charter operations under Part 135 provide an excellent entry point into business aviation. These operators typically fly smaller jets and turboprops, making them an ideal place for new pilots to gain experience. The beauty of Part 135 operations is the diversity of missions—you might be flying corporate executives one day and medical transports the next.
However, competition for these roles can be tough, especially for PIC positions. Most charter operators are looking for pilots with a proven track record, solid IFR skills, and customer service experience, given the nature of the business aviation clientele.
By taking incremental steps, you can smoothly move from flying smaller aircraft like the C172 to commanding high-performance jets.
Breaking into business aviation requires careful planning, a commitment to building flight hours, and strategic networking. By starting with an SIC role, gradually accumulating experience, and eventually transitioning into a PIC position, you can carve out a rewarding career as a Corporate Pilot. For those with the passion and determination, business aviation offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as the chance to fly some of the most advanced aircraft in the world.
A type rating is a certification that allows a pilot to operate a specific type of jet aircraft (e.g., Cessna Citation, Gulfstream). It’s required by the FAA for pilots acting as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) or Second-in-Command (SIC) on that aircraft type.
Not necessarily. If you fly privately and not for compensation, you can operate your own jet with a Private Pilot License (PPL), Instrument Rating (IR), Multi-Engine Rating (ME), and a type rating for your aircraft.
An SIC type rating authorizes you to act as Second-in-Command, while a PIC type rating qualifies you to serve as Pilot-in-Command. Many pilots start with an SIC type rating before upgrading to PIC after building experience.
Training includes ground school, simulator sessions, and often in-aircraft experience. The checkride evaluates normal and emergency procedures, crew coordination (CRM), and decision-making.
To move from SIC to PIC, you must accumulate sufficient flight hours and experience. For Part 135 (charter) operations, minimum flight time requirements are typically higher, making structured time building essential.
Andrey Borisevich is the CEO, Training and Development Manager of SkyEagle Aviation Academy in Florida, responsible for new training programs, marketing, and business strategy. An aerobatic pilot, entrepreneur, and owner of the academy, Andrey has over 20 years of experience in aviation. He has flown more than 65 aircraft types and holds both fixed-wing and helicopter licenses. His YouTube channel, “Andrey Borisevich About Aviation”, offers aircraft reviews, flight training insights, and advice for aspiring pilots.
