Military to civilian · MILCOMP
How do military pilots convert their flying to an FAA commercial certificate?
Through MILCOMP (Military Competence), an FAA provision that lets qualified military pilots receive certain FAA certificates and ratings based on their military training and experience, which can let you bypass certain practical tests. The FAA decides who qualifies, based on factors like your aircraft type, the training you completed and your current military status. Start by gathering your flight records, Form 8s, training records and verification letters.
Key facts
| What MILCOMP is | An FAA provision for qualified military pilots to receive certain certificates and ratings based on military training and experience |
|---|---|
| Who decides | The FAA determines eligibility |
| What it depends on | Aircraft type, training completed, current military status |
| Paperwork to gather | Flight records, Form 8s, training records, verification letters |
| Medical | Military medical works for checkrides; airlines require an FAA Class 1 for hiring |
| Free resource | MILCOMP Gouge: checklist plus paperwork tips |
Start with the paperwork
Most MILCOMP delays are self-inflicted, and they happen before anyone looks at your flying. The FAA needs specific documents to verify military experience, and a missing one stops the clock.
→ Flight records
→ Form 8s
→ Training records
→ Verification letters
Pull these together first. If you're not sure what you're missing, we'll review your logbook with you and point out the gaps, whether you train with us or not.
If MILCOMP doesn't cover you
If you're not converting through MILCOMP, you'll add an FAA instrument rating and earn the commercial certificate the standard way. Rotary-wing pilots headed to the airlines need fixed-wing ratings and airplane time, because Part 121 carriers require a fixed-wing ATP.
From the commercial certificate to the airlines
1. Civilian multi-engine rating in the Tecnam P2006T: $5,995 Part 61, 5–7 days. See multi-engine rating cost and time.
2. ATP-CTP: 7 days of training.
3. ATP practical. Military pilots who are currently flying qualify for Accelerated ATP: $4,995, 3–4 days. See Accelerated ATP.
4. FAA Class 1 medical before airline applications.
Frequently asked questions
MILCOMP basics, the paperwork, and what comes after the commercial certificate.
What is MILCOMP and who qualifies?
Military Competence (MILCOMP) is an FAA provision that allows qualified military pilots to receive certain certificates and ratings based on their military training and experience. Qualification depends on factors like your aircraft type, training completed, and current military status. The FAA determines eligibility; we can help you understand the process and prepare your documentation.
What paperwork do I need for MILCOMP?
Collect your flight records, Form 8s, training records, and verification letters. The FAA requires specific documentation to verify military flight experience, and missing paperwork means delays.
Do I need an FAA commercial certificate before the ATP?
Yes, you generally need to hold at least a Commercial Pilot Certificate before obtaining an ATP. Military pilots may be eligible for expedited pathways through MILCOMP that can streamline this. Eligibility is determined by the FAA.
Can I use my military medical?
Your valid military medical works for checkrides, but airlines require an FAA Class 1 medical certificate for hiring. Schedule an appointment with an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
What comes after the commercial certificate?
Most airline-bound military pilots add a civilian multi-engine rating (our Part 61 Commercial Multi-Engine Add-On is $5,995, 5–7 days), complete the ATP-CTP (7 days of training), then fly the ATP practical. Military pilots who are currently flying qualify for Accelerated ATP: $4,995, 3–4 days.
What if I'm a rotary-wing pilot?
Airlines require fixed-wing experience, so you'll need to obtain fixed-wing ratings and build airplane flight time. Part 121 carriers require a fixed-wing ATP. Single-engine and multi-engine add-on programs are available.
Do you have a MILCOMP checklist?
Yes. Our MILCOMP Gouge is a complete MILCOMP checklist plus paperwork tips, delivered to your inbox.
