Flight school is obviously the most important aspect of becoming a pilot, and it is important to know that there are three types of flight schools, Part 91, 121, and 135.
Part 91 is usually for general aviation and non-commercial operations (civil aircraft.) If you want the fastest track to become an airline pilot this probably isn’t it! These types of flight schools work at slower paces and you don’t quite get all the certifications for airline pilots specifically like you would in a Part 121 school. Some people want a slower start so they start their training at a Part 91 school to get slower schooling, then move to a Part 121 school to get the remaining certifications they need. Finally, if you would like to fly small civil aircraft privately (fly your own plane) this is the perfect option for you because you don’t get the airline certifications that you don’t need.
Part 121 applies to large-scale scheduled commercial air carriers. This is the most common path for those wanting to pursue a career in the airline industry. Part 121 flight schools are certified to give you all the ratings and certifications you need to acquire before you apply to regional airlines. It is important to note that Part 121 schools are faster paced and you can move through them start to finish in 10-12 months. Also, most flight schools offer their completers jobs as flight instructors to be able to gain the hours required to apply to regional airlines.
Part 135 applies to commercial on-demand operations (such as private jets). This type of flight school is if you would like to go into a more private industry, flying smaller jets with fewer people, unregulated by the government due to them being private. You can use Part 135 certifications to become a pilot after you’re done flying privately. You can’t be an airline pilot and a private pilot.
