Darrin
Sherrill’s Advice About Private and Commercial Pilot Certifications
Over the
last few years, Darrin S. Sherrill of Georgia has spent a large portion
of his time developing his skills as a pilot. This interest led him to obtain
first a private pilot license and later a commercial certification and a Multi-Engine Land certification. Darrin Scott
Sherrill has enjoyed the benefits of both types of licenses.
How Do
You Choose Your License?
Since
Darrin Sherrill began his aviation journey, he has devoted his time to studying
techniques and theories about flight. His initial efforts led him to choose a
private pilot certification because he wanted more freedom than is afforded by
a sport pilot license. A sport pilot license has the distinct advantage of requiring
less expense and preparation, but the pilot is consequently more restricted.
Private
pilots are not allowed to offer their services for compensation. Although the
private pilot license is cheaper than a commercial license, a private pilot
still faces intense requirements, such as the regular renewal of his medical
exam. One advantage to Darrin S. Sherrill of a private pilot license is the
ability to carry more than one passenger, since he enjoys flying with his
family in tow.
Commercial
licenses allow a pilot to collect payment for his skills. Once a pilot takes
this step, he is able to begin making a living off of flying. However, to reach
this level of competency, pilots must log over 250 hours of flight time as the
commanding officer, an achievement that requires extensive effort. In addition,
commercial pilots are required to obtain an instrument rating in order to prove
their competency in hazardous conditions.
