Commercial student pilot reviewing checklists in cockpit

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Take the next step toward a professional aviation career. This course builds on your Private and Instrument skills to meet the FAA requirements for compensated flight operations.

Commercial Pilot Course

From Hobbyist to Professional Pilot

If you want to fly for a living, the Commercial Pilot License is your gateway. At Hawkins, we help you reach the 250-hour requirement efficiently with cost-effective instruction and structured time building.

You’ll fly RV-12s, a Vector Harmony, and our Cessna 172, all equipped with glass cockpits. Our instructors focus on real-world decision-making, commercial maneuvers, and readiness for future airline or charter opportunities.

  • Structured Time Building Earn hours the smart way, dual, solo, cross-country, and simulator time that counts.
  • Real-World Training Practice commercial maneuvers and flight scenarios that reflect the demands of pro flying.
  • Flexible Scheduling Work around your current job or life commitments while progressing toward your CPL.

Whether you plan to become a CFI, join a charter operation, or build time toward the airlines, Hawkins gives you the tools, structure, and mentorship to succeed. We’ll help you reach your goals on a timeline that works for you.

Apply Now or Schedule a Discovery Flight

Our team will walk you through flight hour requirements, costs, and career opportunities after earning your CPL.

Hawkins RV-12 aircraft flying cross-country during commercial pilot training

Train Smarter With Hawkins

Advanced Flight Simulators

Our FAA-approved Redbird simulators, developed in partnership with Motlow College, allow you to log up to 2.5 hours toward your Private Pilot License and up to 10 hours toward your Instrument Rating.

Sharpen your skills, reduce training costs, and build confidence in a safe, modern environment, before you ever leave the ground.

Why Fly With Hawkins?

More Than Just a Joyride

At Hawkins Flight Academy, we treat your Discovery Flight as your first real day of flight school. We want you to feel the true responsiveness of a modern aircraft and the satisfaction of commanding it yourself.

You Take the Controls

This isn't a sightseeing tour. After a safety briefing, you sit in the pilot's seat and fly the aircraft for 90% of the journey under expert supervision.

Modern Glass Cockpits

Don't train on outdated equipment. Experience the situational awareness and safety of our Garmin G3X-equipped fleet from day one.

Loggable Flight Time

Every minute you fly counts. Your Discovery Flight is an official lesson that goes directly into your logbook toward your certification.

Experience the Freedom of Flight

The Aviation Lifestyle

The world looks different from 5,000 feet. At Hawkins, we turn that perspective into a career by pairing the thrill of flight with elite instruction. With 7 modern aircraft and a community of over 140 active students, we provide the proven environment you need to go from dreamer to pilot.

140+
Active Students
50+
Graduates in 2025
7
Training Aircraft
2
Locations

Why Choose Us

Join the Hawkins Flight Family

Whether you're chasing a lifelong dream or planning a career in aviation, Hawkins Flight Academy is here to help you get there—with great instructors, modern aircraft, and a friendly, supportive environment.

From your first takeoff to earning your pilot certificate, you’ll be part of a community that believes in personal attention, safety, and helping every student succeed.

Instructor smiling
Smiling team member
Hawkins aircraft flying
Flight instructor with headset
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Enroll Now

Commercial Pilot FAQs

The FAA requires 250 total flight hours, including 100 hours as pilot-in-command and 50 hours of cross-country flight time.

Yes. We offer structured time-building plans and affordable rental blocks to help you hit 250 hours efficiently.

We use fuel-efficient RV-12s, a Vector Harmony, and a Cessna 172 — all equipped with glass cockpits.

Many graduates go on to get their CFI rating, join charter operators, or begin regional airline pathway programs.

Ready for Takeoff?

Book a Discovery Flight Today

Experience the thrill of flight firsthand with a Discovery Flight at Hawkins Flight Academy. Whether you're considering a career in aviation or just want to see what it’s like to be in the pilot’s seat, this is the perfect first step. You'll fly with a certified instructor and take the controls yourself—no prior experience needed.