Earning your Commercial Pilot Certificate is the next big step in your aviation journey, whether you aspire to be a professional pilot or simply want to enhance your flying skills. A commercial certificate allows you to be compensated for your flying and opens the door to exciting career opportunities in aviation. At Summit Wings Aviation, we offer comprehensive training for both Commercial Airplane Single-Engine Land (ASEL) and Commercial Airplane Multi-Engine Land (AMEL) certifications.
Commercial Pilot Certificate Requirements
To qualify for a commercial certificate under FAA Part 61, a pilot must meet the following aeronautical experience requirements:
- 250 total flight hours, including:
- 100 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC)
- 50 hours of cross-country time
- 20 hours of training with an instructor, which includes:
- 10 hours of instrument training
- 10 hours of training in a complex airplane or AATD (Advanced Aviation Training Device)
- 10 hours of solo flight or time as PIC, which includes:
- One 300-NM cross-country with a landing at three different points
- Five hours of night VFR conditions, including 10 takeoffs and landings at a controlled airport
The total training time required depends on the student’s previous flight experience. Most students will need between 20 and 50 hours of flight training to meet proficiency standards and check ride readiness.
Complex Airplane Training & Endorsement
For students without prior experience in a complex aircraft (an airplane with retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable-pitch propeller), additional training must be completed. This training can be accomplished using a complex aircraft or an AATD, and successful completion can earn students their complex endorsement.
Training Pathways: ASEL vs. AMEL First
Option 1: Commercial ASEL First, Then AMEL Add-On
For most pilots, the most cost-effective route to a Commercial Pilot Certificate is to complete the ASEL first and then add a multi-engine rating afterward. Since much of the required flight time can be built in lower-cost single-engine aircraft, this approach saves significant expense compared to completing all training in a twin-engine airplane.
Option 2: Commercial AMEL First (Higher Cost, Direct to Multi-Engine)
Students who wish to pursue their commercial multi-engine certificate first may do so. However, since all 250 hours must be completed in a multi-engine aircraft, this option comes at a significantly higher cost. Those who take this path will still need to complete the 10 hours of complex training unless their multi-engine aircraft qualifies as complex.
Commercial Multi-Engine Add-On (AMEL)
If you already have a Commercial ASEL and wish to add a Multi-Engine Rating, you only need:
- No minimum total time required, but proficiency must be demonstrated
- A short training program, typically 10-15 flight hours in a multi-engine aircraft
- No additional FAA written exam—just the check ride
Accelerated Commercial Pilot Pathway
For pilots who already meet the requisite aeronautical experience and have completed their knowledge test, Summit Wings Aviation offers an accelerated commercial pilot pathway.
- Initial Commercial Pilot Certificate (ASEL or AMEL): Pilots can complete their training and be check ride-ready in as little as two weeks.
- Commercial Multi-Engine Add-On (AMEL): This can be completed in as little as five days.
This accelerated program is designed for pilots who are eager to complete their commercial certification quickly while maintaining a high level of proficiency and check ride preparedness. Our experienced instructors will work with you intensively to ensure you are fully ready to pass your check ride in the shortest time possible.
Estimated Training Costs
The cost of your commercial training varies based on your flight experience, total time, and whether you choose ASEL or AMEL first. Below is a general estimate:
Flight Training Costs
- Aircraft Rental (Cessna 172/Piper Archer): $150/hr
- Instructor Rate (Flight & Ground): $65/hr
- Flight Hours Needed: 20-50 hours ($3,000 – $7,500)
- Ground Instruction: 10-15 hours ($650 – $975)
- Commercial Pilot Ground School (Online Course): $299
Estimated Total Cost: $4,000 – $9,000 (depending on experience and training path)
Why Choose Summit Wings Aviation?
- Tailored Training: We customize your training plan to meet your goals and prior experience.
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from highly qualified CFIs who focus on real-world proficiency.
- Flexible Scheduling: Train at your pace—whether full-time or part-time.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Our program ensures you don’t just pass your check ride, but develop the skills needed for professional aviation.
Start Your Commercial Pilot Training Today
Becoming a commercial pilot opens the door to exciting career opportunities and enhances your aviation skills. Whether you’re taking the single-engine path, jumping straight into multi-engine training, or adding on an AMEL rating, Summit Wings Aviation has the right training program for you.
Contact us today to discuss your commercial training plan and take the next step toward earning your Commercial Pilot Certificate!