Flying a private jet is one of the most fascinating jobs there is: freedom, technology, world travel, and the privilege of being at the controls of a luxury aircraft. But how does one become a private jet pilot? And who is part of the crew that takes passengers into the skies?
Let’s find out the full path together-step by step.
Working aboard the jet: the crew
On board a private jet, the crew is small but highly trained.
- Light jets: 1-2 pilots
- Medium jets: 2 pilots + 1 cabin member
- Large and intercontinental jets: 2 pilots + up to 3 cabin members
Main roles:
- Pilot commander (Captain): absolutely responsible for flight, planning and safety
- Copilot (First Officer): manages instruments, communications, and supports the commander
- Flight attendant: taking care of passengers’ comfort, catering and safety
Fun fact: On some small jets, the captain may fly alone, but having a co-pilot increases safety and operational comfort, especially on international flights.
Step one: private pilot’s license (PPL)
The journey begins with a PPL (Private Pilot License), issued by aviation authorities such as ENAC (Italy), EASA (Europe) or FAA (United States).
It is obtained at certified flight schools and airports with training bases, where you learn the basics: takeoff, landing, navigation and emergency management.
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Flight hours: about 50
- Allows you to: fly alone, but not for work
In Italy, excellent schools for PPL can be found at Rome-Urbe, Verona-Boscomantico and Turin-Aeritalia airports.
Accumulating flight experience
Once the PPL is obtained, you start building real flight experience. This phase is used to improve aircraft control and prepare for commercial licensing.
- You fly light aircraft such as Cessna 172, Piper Archer or Diamond DA40
- You face night flights, variable weather conditions, and cross-country routes
- The most commonly used training airports in Italy include Rome-Ciampino, Verona-Boscomantico, and Turin-Caselle
The goal is to become a safe pilot, able to handle any situation and communicate with control towers independently.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
The CPL (Commercial Pilot License) allows you to turn your passion into a profession. It is issued by authorities such as ENAC, EASA or FAA, and involves training in twin-engine aircraft such as Piper Seneca, Beechcraft Baron or Diamond DA62.
- Hours required: 200-250
- Duration: 1-2 years
- Key teachings: IFR flights, advanced communications, emergency management and meteorology
Among the most renowned schools: CAE Oxford Academy (UK), FlightSafety International (US), L3Harris (UK and US).
Qualifications to fly private jets
Once the CPL is obtained, specific ratings are needed to fly private jets:
- Multi-Engine Rating (MEP): to handle multiple engines
- Instrument Rating (IR): for flying in reduced visibility or complex weather conditions
- Type Rating: enablement for a precise jet model (e.g., Cessna Citation, Gulfstream, Dassault Falcon)
Each Type Rating includes theory, simulator and flight hours with certified instructor.
The role of private jet co-pilot
Before becoming a commander, one works as a First Officer, i.e., co-pilot. It is a phase of technical and professional growth:
- You fly with experienced commanders
- Hours are accumulated on domestic and international routes
- You participate in regular briefings and updates
At this stage, operational awareness and mastery of international procedures are developed.
How to become a private jet commander
After years of experience and hundreds of hours of flight time, you obtain the qualification of commander. The captain is responsible for the aircraft, crew, and passengers.
On average it takes 5-7 years of training and practice to get to this level. It is a career that combines technique, precision and leadership.
Landing at airports: normal runways and difficult runways
Not all airports are the same:
- Normal: long runways, full services, stable weather – e.g. Biggin Hill (London), Ciampino (Rome), Zurich-Kloten (Zurich)
- Difficult: short runs, obstacles or crosswinds – e.g. Courchevel (France), Innsbruck (Austria), Lukla (Nepal)
Please note: Some stopovers require special ratings and dedicated pre-flight simulations.
Qualifications and special permits
Some flights require special certifications:
- STOL: for takeoffs and landings in confined spaces
- RVSM: for high altitude operations in congested areas.
- Special Airport Operations: for airports with difficult conditions
In addition, destinations such as China, Russia, India or the United Arab Emirates require special diplomatic or military permits.
Often the jet operations team or broker handles these.
Differences between countries
The path to becoming a private jet pilot is similar around the world, but the requirements vary.
- Aviation authorities: ENAC (Italy), EASA (EU), FAA (US), other national
- Hours required: change from country to country
- Licenses: must be converted if you want to work abroad
- Aircraft and schools: each nation has specific models and regulations
Those aiming for an international career should choose EASA or FAA-certified, globally recognized schools.
Best flight schools to become a private jet pilot
The world’s most renowned academies:
- CAE Oxford Aviation Academy (UK)
- FlightSafety International (U.S. and Europe)
- ATP Flight School (USA)
- L3Harris Airline Academy (UK and USA)
- Airways Aviation (UK, Spain, South Africa)
Many of these flight academies offer integrated programs that take students from first flight to the cockpit.
How much does a private jet pilot make?
Salaries for private jet pilots vary widely depending on experience, type of jet, and the company they work for.
Here is an indicative overview:
- Co-pilot (First Officer): €40,000 to €80,000 per year
- Commander (Captain): €90,000 to €180,000 per year
- Freelance or VIP charter pilots: up to €250,000 per year in cases of long-haul jets or contracts with wealthy clients
In addition, many pilots receive extra benefits such as housing, expense reimbursements, private flights and seasonal bonuses.
In the United States and Gulf countries, where the private jet market is more developed, fees can be as much as 30-40% higher than the European average.
Flying private jets, how to get your career off the ground
Becoming a private jet pilot is a long but exciting journey of dedication, study and passion for flying. Those who make it to the top have a unique experience: flying extraordinary aircraft, traveling to all parts of the world, and working in one of the most exclusive environments there is.
And with the right licenses, ratings and international training, the dream of becoming a private jet commander can really take off.
Why becoming a private jet pilot is a winning choice
The world of private jet chartering is constantly growing, and with it comes an increasing demand for qualified professional pilots. Becoming a private jet pilot is not just about achieving a personal goal, but entering a dynamic, international and well-paid industry.
With the right training, experience and qualifications, you can take off into an exclusive career, working for luxury jet charter companies or directly for private clients.
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