Line training for pilot helps you increase the amount of hours flown, gain experience in the actual aircraft and get the better job. Line training programs are offered by airlines or recruiters. Despite the fact that there are many line training programs in the world the most popular are A320 line training and B737 line training. In this article you will find the general information on what is line training and why pilots need it.

Requirements

Requirements to get line training are quite similar everywhere. There is a list of main requirements for line training program:
— At least 100 hours as pilot-in-command of airplanes;
— Type rating on a current aircraft;
— Valid ME, IR (multi-engine, instrument rating);
— Valid CPL or ATPL;
— Valid Class 1 Medical Certificate;
— MCC certificate of completion;
— English level 4 according to ICAO requirements;
Keep in mind that you need to send your CV. So read article ‘How to write pilot resume’, follow tips and write a professional resume.

How it works?

First of all, you need to check if meet requirements and be available to start the program within 2-4 months. Afterwards you need to send required documents and, if pre-approved, wait for further information with all line training program details (payment, additional required documents, etc.). Airlines or recruiters usually prefer candidates with at least 100 hours in total (more is better) and high grade of final type rating exam (approximately between 95 – 100 %).

Payment

Line training price depends on the type of aircraft. For instance, line training A320 might cost around 40 000 – 50 000€. Line trainings on less popular aircraft types are normally cheaper. Usually cadets are asked to pay around 60% of payment before the program and rest of it after.
It is important to mention that when obtaining for line training, pilots are not being paid. However, most of airlines offer opportunity for pilots to sign a permanent contract as a first officer after finishing the line training. Keep in mind that accommodation and transportation is usually not provided during the line training.
Despite the opinion that line training destroys the airline pilot industry (“Pay to fly”), line training is in itself necessary. More or less, it’s the first step to be a pilot. For sure, there was a time when airline pilot training was sponsored by the airline hiring a pilot. However, the situation has changed and only few airlines still apply this policy.  So the main information about line training programs is relevant and needful. In order to start your pilot’s career, you need to invest.