Can I become a pilot at 40?

Yes, you can become a pilot at 40. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets the maximum age of a pilot at 65. This means as long as you are under the age of 65 you can become a pilot. However, becoming a pilot is not an easy process and there are a lot of education, training, and other strict requirements you must meet to achieve this.

Here is a closer look at some of the factors that play into this question:

• Qualifications of being a pilot

You need a lot of training to be a pilot.The qualifications of a pilot are graduation from flight school, flight hours, and skills and experience in professional flying. Qualifications also vary for commercial and private pilots depending on their employer.

• Flight school

To earn a pilot's license you must attend flight school. These institutions consist of difficult classes that are similar to most forms of education, with textbooks, homework, studying, and exams. You will learn the basic procedures for operating and flying a plane, as well as the laws that govern the aviation world.

• Flight simulator tests

You need to pass many flight simulator tests before you can get up into the air. To become a licensed pilot you need to have 150 hours of instructed flight time.

• Required skills

Here are some skills that are necessary for all pilots:

• A good understanding of math and physics

• An ability to understand highly technical information

• Excellent spatial awareness and skilled coordination

• Strong communication skills utilized when talking to co-pilots, flight crews, and air traffic controllers

• The ability to think quickly and make decisions in difficult situations

• The ability to remain calm under stressful conditions

These skills are tested in flight school, as well as by employers that hire pilots.

• Health requirements

One major reason not just anybody can become a pilot is that there are certain requirements concerning physical and mental health. This includes passing a medical exam and a vision test. Those that have chronic medical or mental conditions may not meet the requirements, as well as those that don't meet the visual acuity standards.