What A Levels Do I Need to Be a Pilot?

Pursuing a career as a pilot is a big dream for many people. However, navigating the educational requirements can be overwhelming and difficult. Choosing the right A Level choices is a large part of making your way into the cockpit. 

The aviation industry highly values A Levels. They are a way for aspiring pilots to demonstrate academic proficiency and their commitment to learning. 

Flight schools and training programmes may have different and specific requirements, but there are some recommended A Levels that can provide aspiring pilots a strong foundation. A Levels are also a prerequisite for admission into some pilot training courses. So, what A Levels do you need to be a pilot? 

Essential A Levels for Pilots

A Level Maths

Pilots must have a strong grasp of mathematics. It’s essential for flight planning, navigation, and understanding calculations related to aviation. A Level Maths provides aspiring pilots a strong understanding of algebra, calculus, and statistics, all of which are directly applicable to different aspects of aviation. 

A Level Physics

Physics is highly useful for pilots since it covers key principles such as energy, motion, and force. A Level Physics provides students with knowledge directly related to the scientific principles needed for understanding flight, including aircraft performance and aerodynamics. 

A Level Geography

A Level Geography is valuable for pilots since it covers topics like climate, physical geography, and weather patterns. Pilots should have a strong understanding of meteorology so they can effectively assess weather conditions and make decisions during flight operations.

A Level English Literature

Being proficient in the English language is critical for effective communication. Essay subjects such as A Level English Literature help pilots develop strong verbal and written communication skills. Pilots need to be able to maintain clear and concise communication with crew members and traffic control. 

Optional A Levels for Pilots

A Level Further Maths

A Level Further Maths builds on the foundation laid in A Level Maths. It takes a deeper dive into advanced concepts and techniques. Further maths enhances skills like problem-solving and mathematical reasoning, which are valuable to pilots who frequently deal with complex calculations and flight-related computations.

A Level Computer Science

As the integration of technology in aviation increases, pilots need a strong understanding of computer science, which is a huge benefit. A Level Computer Science equips aspiring pilots with essential skills like programming, algorithmic thinking, and data analysis. These are relevant and useful for aircraft systems, aviation software, and flight simulation.  

A Level Economics

Having insight into economic principles, business concepts, and market dynamics is valuable to pilots. It’s particularly useful for pilots who explore areas such as aviation management or airline operations. It’s also beneficial to have a good understanding of the economic factors that influence the aviation industry. 

Best A Level Combinations for Pilots

Aspiring pilots need to choose the best combination of A Level subjects. The topics they choose significantly impact their level of preparedness and suitability for their pilot training programmes. Every A Level combination should include Mathematics and Physics. The third option may depend on the pilot’s aviation interests.

Mathematics and Physics pair well with geography, as it provides aspiring pilots with a well-rounded academic foundation. These two can also be combined with computer science, which is advantageous for pilots who want to pursue aviation technology, aircraft systems, or aviation software development.

Requirements for Top UK Universities

Brunel University, London A Level Requirements 

Aspiring pilots may choose to pursue an Aviation Engineering with Pilot Studies MEng at Brunel University, London. The school’s program is four years, but may take five if the student selects a sandwich course. The university’s entry requirements include AAA A Level grades, and it must include Maths and Physics. 

Kingston University, London A Level Requirements

Kingston University, London, provides a foundation degree and equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to top up to a B.Sc. degree. Requirements for entry into Kingston University, London, include 80 UCAS points and two A Levels. 

Staffordshire University (Stoke-on-Trent Campus) A Level Requirements

Aspiring pilots can pursue an Aeronautical Technology B.Sc. at Staffordshire University. Students will learn about flight technology, supersonic, aerodynamics, instruments, and displays. The university requires an A Level BCC for entry. Students may also achieve entry if they have CCC plus C at AS Level. 

How to Choose Your A Level Subjects for a Pilot Career

Play to Your Strengths

Once you’ve decided you want to be a pilot, it opens up many other opportunities. When choosing A Level subjects, think about your strengths. For example, if you enjoy programming and working with code and think you’d like to develop software for aircraft, select the appropriate courses. 

Meet University Requirements

What A Levels does the university of your choice require? You may want to look at the entry requirements for a few top universities and then make an educated choice. This is especially important if your favourite school has a specific requirement. 

Meet Airline Requirements

If you have some specific airlines you’d like to work with, check to see if they have any A Level requirements. Employers often have their own criteria for hiring, including A Level subjects. 

Alternative Pathways for Pilots

Pilot Training Schools

Flying schools, or pilot training schools, offer three types of flight training: integrated, modular, and multi-crew pilot licence. These schools can be on the expensive side and there is no guarantee that you’ll have a job once you finish. If you choose this route, make sure to check the school of your choice for A Level requirements. 

Major Airline Training Programmes

Some major airlines offer structured programmes. They work alongside providers to ensure you get pilot training. Most of these programmes are self-funded, and you have a decent chance of being employed by the organisation once you’ve compelled their programme. But it’s not a guarantee. Spaces are limited, and the acceptance process is very competitive.

University Aviation Degree

Having a degree in aviation isn’t required, but several universities offer coursework. Courses can usually be completed in three years. However, you may decide to take a sandwich year before starting the programme. If you do, it will add one more year to the time you’ll need to study to obtain your degree.

What Happens If I Don’t Choose These Subjects?

The good thing about studying to be a pilot is there are not any strict requirements for A Level subjects. However, A Level maths and physics provide a strong foundation, and some study courses do require them. There are also numerous other courses recommended. It’s okay if you don’t like one or more of the recommended subjects. 

Decide what works for you. Think about what your strengths are while working to satisfy any university requirements. Make sure to think about your own strengths and A Level subjects you are already good at. It’s unproductive to pick a course you are going to hate. It is far more important to enjoy the process of obtaining your pilot licence and not be miserable in the process. 

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