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Do pilots need a minimum height?

In civil aviation there is not a minimum height requirement to become a pilot; however, some small aircraft cannot accommodate an extremely tall individual. To be sure of a specific airline's requirements, we encourage you to contact them directly.



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Myth: You Can't Be Too Tall or Short to Fly In civilian aviation, however, there are no restrictions on height, and you only need to demonstrate that you can operate an aircraft safely.

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Applicants below 64 inches (5'4) or above 77 inches (6'5) can now enter a cockpit without a waiver. Under the Air Force's previous requirements, an Air Force pilot applicant — barring waivers — needed to have a standing height between 5'4 to 6'5 and a sitting height of 34-40 inches.

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Yes, airplane pilots can wear glasses. (And many do.) If you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, you can still become a commercial, private, or military pilot. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the military have certain minimum standards for prospective pilots.

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In general, it takes a minimum of 40-60 hours of flight time to obtain a private pilot's license, which allows you to fly small aircraft for personal use. To become a commercial pilot, which will enable you to fly for hire, you'll need a minimum of 250 hours of flight time and more advanced training.

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There are no specific height restrictions for pilots under FAA rules. Flight schools and commercial airlines accept pilots for training as long as they are physically able to reach the controls and obtain a full rudder deflection in the aircraft they will operate.

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There are short and tall professional pilots who might need aircraft modifications to ensure they can reach and operate the controls safely. While there are BMI guidelines that are considered part of your general health, there is no specific minimum or maximum weight required to become a pilot.

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