24M from Belgium starting my airline pilot journey — any advice you wish you knew before beginning?
Hey everyone,
I’m a 24-year-old from Belgium and a few weeks ago I finally decided to pursue my dream of becoming an airline pilot.
I’ve just taken my first real steps into aviation and recently completed my Class 1 medical process in Brussels. The process was split into two different appointments.
The first day was the medical examination itself, which cost around €570. It included the usual checks: eyesight, blood and urine tests, general health checks, etc. Thankfully I don’t have any major health issues, so I think that part went well.
After completing that, they referred me to an aviation psychologist for the psychological assessment. I managed to get an appointment about two weeks later, which cost another €400. The assessment was done in two parts: first a discussion/interview with the psychologist for around an hour, then a large personality questionnaire to complete afterwards.
Now I’m just waiting for the final results, and they told me it could take up to 8 weeks.
Assuming everything goes well, my plan is to start my PPL at Air Academy New CAG in Belgium, and I’m also considering doing the rest of my training there through the modular route.
For those already in aviation:
- What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
- What mistakes should I avoid?
- Is there anything you wish you had known before beginning your training?
Thanks a lot everyone. Hopefully I’ll be able to come back soon with good news and officially start flying 😄