What does it take to become a pilot?

Season 2, Episode 13 | July 22nd, 2026

Guest: Eduardo Iglesias

Escuela de Aviación PRAAT

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Executive Summary

This episode focuses on one of the most common questions asked by young aviation enthusiasts and their families: What does it really take to become a professional pilot in today's aviation industry? Rather than concentrating solely on flying skills, the discussion examines the complete professional journey, from choosing a flight school to building a long-term airline career. The guest, Eduardo Iglesias of PRAAT Aviation School, shares insights drawn from many years of training pilots.

Key Discussion Points

• Whether becoming a pilot in 2026 continues to be an attractive career despite rapid advances in automation and Artificial Intelligence.

• The qualities that distinguish successful pilots, including discipline, resilience, judgement, continuous learning and professionalism.

• The financial commitment involved in pilot training and practical advice for families evaluating aviation schools.

• The importance of experienced instructors, modern training methods and selecting a school based on quality rather than facilities alone.

• The role of English proficiency and recommendations on developing language skills alongside flight training.

• The transition from graduation to an airline cockpit, including realistic expectations for a pilot's first years of employment.

• What airlines increasingly value beyond flight hours, such as teamwork, communication, decision-making and safety culture.

• Lessons learned from decades of pilot instruction and how aviation education has evolved with new technology and simulation.

• How AI and automation are changing training while reinforcing the continued importance of human judgement in the cockpit.

• Advice for the next generation of pilots, emphasizing patience, professionalism, experience and lifelong learning.

Executive Takeaways

The episode concludes that aviation remains an attractive profession for motivated individuals. Although aircraft systems, simulators and AI continue to evolve, the industry's need for well-trained pilots with sound judgement, integrity and strong decision-making skills remains unchanged.

Success is presented not as the result of talent alone, but of sustained discipline, quality instruction, practical experience and a commitment to continuous improvement throughout an aviation career. Families considering this profession are encouraged to evaluate schools carefully, understand the financial and personal commitment involved, and view pilot training as the beginning of a lifelong professional journey rather than simply obtaining a licence.