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The aviation career is one of the most exciting and in-demand professions in Colombia and around the world. Becoming a pilot not only involves learning how to fly an aircraft, but also gaining expertise in navigation, meteorology, aviation regulations, and safety procedures. In Colombia, more and more young people are choosing this path, drawn by strong job opportunities and the chance to travel and work for both national and international airlines.
In Colombia, aspiring pilots must begin by obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL), which allows them to fly aircraft for recreational or private purposes, without commercial intent. This is the first essential step for those dreaming of a career in aviation. To work professionally for airlines, candidates must then pursue a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), which qualifies them to operate commercial flights and earn income as a pilot.
Additionally, to specialize in specific aircraft models such as the Airbus A320, pilots need a type rating, like the one offered by Global Training Aviation in Colombia. This training includes certified simulators and programs tailored to the Latin American aviation market, ensuring high-quality, industry-relevant education.
The aeronautical sector in Colombia is experiencing steady growth, driven by the expansion of major airlines such as Avianca, LATAM Colombia, and Viva Air. Pilots holding a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and a type rating for aircraft like the Airbus A320 are finding numerous job opportunities on both domestic and international routes.
The increasing number of regional flights and the rising demand for air travel in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali make aviation a high-employability career in the country. Training centers such as GTA Colombia play a key role in this development by offering top-tier pilot training and connecting graduates with leading airlines across the region.
If you dream of becoming a pilot in Colombia, it’s essential to understand the basic requirements before starting your training. Aviation schools and training centers, such as GTA Colombia, require candidates to meet specific conditions to ensure safety and proper preparation for future pilots.
These requirements are aligned with the regulations set by the Special Administrative Unit of Civil Aeronautics (Aerocivil), the authority responsible for overseeing civil aviation in Colombia.
To begin aviation studies in Colombia, you must be at least 17 years old at the start of your training and 18 years old to obtain your pilot license. In terms of education, you are required to have completed secondary school and hold a high school diploma.
While a university degree is not mandatory, having a strong academic background can greatly help in understanding technical subjects such as physics, mathematics, and aeronautical navigation, which are essential throughout the training process.
English is a key requirement in aviation, as it is the universal language of air traffic communication. In Colombia, aviation schools typically require a basic to intermediate level of English to begin training. However, to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), pilots must reach at least Level 4 on the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) scale.
Additionally, candidates must have taken the ICFES exams (Colombia’s national standardized tests), as some training centers may consider the results during the admission process. A strong score in areas such as mathematics and critical reading can be a valuable advantage.
Aviation safety starts with the pilot’s health. That’s why obtaining a Class 1 Aeromedical Certificate is mandatory for aspiring commercial pilots in Colombia. This medical exam, approved by Aerocivil, evaluates key health aspects such as vision, hearing, cardiovascular condition, and overall physical health.
In addition, candidates must undergo psychotechnical and psychophysical aptitude tests to ensure they possess the cognitive and emotional skills needed to handle high-stress situations during flight. At training centers like GTA Colombia, this process is guided by professionals who support students from their first steps through to obtaining their type rating.
The aviation career in Colombia follows a progressive training path that allows students to advance step by step—from recreational flying to high-responsibility commercial operations. The total duration of pilot training can vary depending on the student’s availability, weather conditions, and training pace.
However, by following an intensive training plan, it is possible to become a professional pilot in a relatively short period of time.
The Private Pilot License (PPL) is the first step in an aviation career. In Colombia, obtaining this license typically takes between 6 to 12 months, depending on the frequency of theoretical and practical classes. This period includes a minimum of 40 flight hours and passing the theoretical exams required by Aerocivil. Many students choose to complete this stage while working or studying, allowing for a flexible and personalized training schedule.
To move forward to the Commercial Pilot License (CPL), the process becomes more comprehensive and specialized. In Colombia, it usually takes an additional 12 to 18 months after earning the PPL, totaling approximately 18 to 24 months for those pursuing the full path. The CPL requires a minimum of 200 flight hours, including pilot-in-command time and night flights.
To progress toward a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), the training becomes more advanced and specialized. In Colombia, this stage typically takes an additional 12 to 18 months after completing the Private Pilot License (PPL), resulting in a total of approximately 18 to 24 months for the full training path. The CPL requires a minimum of 200 flight hours, including pilot-in-command time and night flying experience.
Furthermore, those aiming to operate commercial aircraft such as the Airbus A320 must complete a type rating. At training centers like GTA Colombia, this certification can be achieved in just a few weeks using certified A320 flight simulators and programs tailored to the current job market.
Studying aviation in Colombia is a significant investment, but one that offers strong medium-term returns thanks to the growing job opportunities in the aeronautical sector. Training costs can vary depending on the flight school, city, and the type of aircraft used during instruction. Specialized centers like GTA Colombia offer programs with an excellent quality-to-cost ratio, featuring state-of-the-art flight simulators and training aligned with international aviation standards.
To obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL) in Colombia, the estimated investment ranges between COP 35 million and 50 million. This cost typically includes the required flight hours, theoretical classes, simulator sessions, enrollment fees, exams, and administrative expenses.
Many aviation schools offer financing options or modular payment plans, making it easier for aspiring pilots to start their training without a large upfront payment. This flexibility helps students take their first steps in aviation in a way that fits their financial situation.
Advancing to a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) involves a higher investment, as it requires a minimum of 200 flight hours and specialized training. In Colombia, the total cost to obtain a CPL typically ranges between COP 120 million and 180 million, depending on the flight school and any additional flight hours needed.
Aspiring pilots who plan to operate aircraft like the Airbus A320 should also factor in the additional cost of a type rating, which is a separate certification required for specific aircraft models.
Several factors influence the final cost of becoming a pilot in Colombia. These include the price of aviation fuel, the type of aircraft used for training (piston or turbine engines), and the location of the flight school—whether in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, or other cities. Additionally, students may need extra flight hours to reach the required level of proficiency, which can increase overall expenses. Other important cost considerations include type ratings (such as for the Airbus A320), medical certification fees, study materials, and official exam costs. All of these elements should be factored in when planning your total investment in this exciting and rewarding career.
A pilot career in Colombia is not only exciting but also offers competitive salaries that increase with experience and specialization. Thanks to the steady growth of the aeronautical sector in the country—with airlines such as Avianca, LATAM Colombia, and Wingo—pilots trained at institutions like GTA Colombia have access to well-paid job opportunities, both nationally and internationally.
The salary of a pilot in Colombia varies significantly based on experience level and the type of aircraft operated. A newly graduated commercial pilot starting as a first officer on domestic flights can earn between COP 4 million and 7 million per month.
As pilots accumulate flight hours and gain experience, especially with type ratings for larger aircraft like the Airbus A320, their income can increase substantially. An A320 captain with several years of experience may earn between COP 15 million and 25 million per month, depending on the airline and flight frequency.
The key to reaching these salary levels lies in continuous training and obtaining internationally recognized certifications.
There are clear differences between the salaries of commercial pilots and military pilots in Colombia. While commercial pilots benefit from incomes that can grow quickly thanks to bonuses for flight hours and international routes, military pilots follow a fixed salary structure based on rank and seniority within the Colombian Air Force.
For example, a pilot officer in the armed forces may earn between COP 3 million and 8 million per month, with additional benefits such as housing and healthcare, but without the bonus opportunities available in commercial aviation. For this reason, many military pilots choose to transition to the civil sector, completing type ratings such as the A320 to take advantage of high demand and better economic conditions in commercial aviation.
Colombia offers a wide range of aviation schools that prepare future pilots to meet the growing demand in the air transport sector. From training centers with cutting-edge technology to traditional academies, each one offers programs tailored to the needs of those who dream of flying professionally. Below, we present some of the most notable ones.
Global Training Aviation (GTA) is one of the leading references in aviation training in Colombia and Latin America. Located in Bogotá, it specializes in type ratings for aircraft such as the Airbus A320, offering programs with certified simulators and highly qualified instructors.
In addition, GTA aligns with both European (EASA) and Colombian Aerocivil standards, allowing its graduates to access opportunities with both local and international airlines. Its A320 flight simulator center in Colombia is one of the most modern, ensuring hands-on, high-level training—ideal for pilots looking to advance their careers.
The Escuela de Aviación del Pacífico, located in Cali, is known for its strong commitment to high-quality pilot training in southwestern Colombia. It offers both private and commercial pilot licenses, as well as simulator-based instruction. The school also maintains partnerships with regional airlines, which helps its graduates enter the growing aviation job market in Colombia’s Pacific region.
The Marco Fidel Suárez Military Aviation School (EMAVI), located in Cali, is the main institution for military pilot training in Colombia. It prepares officers of the Colombian Air Force (FAC) with a focus on defense, tactical operations, and national security. Although its training differs from commercial aviation, many EMAVI graduates later pursue civil certifications, such as the A320 type rating, to enter the commercial aviation market, leveraging their flight experience and leadership skills.
The cost of pursuing a pilot career in Colombia varies depending on the school and the type of license you aim to obtain. To become a private pilot, the investment ranges between COP 35 million and 50 million. If your goal is to become a commercial pilot, you should expect to spend between COP 120 million and 180 million, not including additional certifications such as the Airbus A320 type rating offered by Global Training Aviation (GTA). Factors like extra flight hours and specific type ratings can significantly influence the final cost.
The duration of pilot training depends on the pace of study and the type of license pursued. To obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL), the estimated time is between 6 and 12 months. The Commercial Pilot License (CPL) requires an additional 12 to 18 months, so completing the full training path can take around 18 to 24 months. In addition, specific certifications such as the A320 type rating at GTA Colombia can be completed in just a few weeks, accelerating access to the job market.
Pilot salaries in Colombia vary depending on experience and the type of aircraft operated. A first officer on domestic flights can earn between COP 4 million and 7 million per month. With experience and certifications such as the A320 type rating, a captain can reach monthly salaries between COP 15 million and 25 million.
Aviation technicians also enjoy strong job opportunities in Colombia. The average salary for a certified aircraft technician ranges between COP 2.5 million and 5 million per month, depending on experience, specialization, and the airline or company they work for. Those with certifications in commercial aircraft maintenance, such as the Airbus A320, can access higher salaries and greater job stability at major airports like El Dorado, José María Córdova, or Alfonso Bonilla Aragón.
