So you’ve made the decision—you’re going to become a pilot. Amazing! But here’s where things get real: integrated or modular training? It’s probably one of the biggest questions you’ll face at the start of your journey, and honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Let’s chat about both options so you can figure out what works best for your situation.
What’s the Difference, Really?
Integrated training is like going to university for flying. You sign up for an intensive, non-stop program that takes you from never having touched a yoke to holding a frozen ATPL in about 15-18 months. Everything’s planned out for you—ground school, simulator sessions, flight hours—all in one continuous flow.
Modular training is more like building with LEGO blocks. You do it piece by piece, at your own pace. Start with your Private Pilot License, then add your Commercial License when you’re ready, squeeze in your ATPL theory exams when life allows, and keep building until you’ve got everything you need. It might take 3-4 years (or longer), but you’re in the driver’s seat.
Why People Love Integrated Training
If you can swing it financially and you’re ready to dive in headfirst, integrated training has some serious perks:
- You’ll be done fast – We’re talking 15-18 months from zero to hero, ready to apply for airline jobs
- Everything flows naturally – No awkward gaps where you forget what a VOR is or how to calculate weight and balance
- You stay sharp – When you’re flying and studying every day, things just stick better
- Airline connections matter – Some schools have direct pipelines to airlines through cadet schemes
- It’s simpler – One school, one bill, one plan. Done.
- Momentum is powerful – When you’re all-in, you stay motivated and focused
Plus, you could realistically be flying passengers within three years of starting. That’s pretty incredible when you think about it.
Why Modular Makes Sense for So Many
Now, if you’ve got a job, a family, or just aren’t sure if flying is really your thing yet, modular training might actually be perfect:
- Pay as you go – Spread the cost over years instead of dropping a huge sum upfront
- Test the waters first – Get your PPL, fly some friends around, and make sure this is really what you want before investing more
- Life doesn’t stop – Keep working, stay home for family dinners, take breaks when you need them
- Shop around – Find the best instructor for your instrument rating or the most affordable school for your CPL
- You’ll grow as a person – More life experience often means better decision-making in the cockpit
- Less pressure – No massive loan hanging over your head if things don’t work out
Sure, it takes longer. But for a lot of people, that’s actually a feature, not a bug.
So… Which One Should You Choose?
Look, I’m not going to sugarcoat it—this comes down to your money situation, your time, and how you learn best.
Go integrated if:
- You’ve got significant funding sorted (savings, family help, or approved loans)
- You can dedicate the next 15-18 months full-time to training
- You’re relatively young with fewer responsibilities tying you down
- You thrive when you’ve got structure and routine
- Speed matters to you—you want that airline job ASAP
- Cadet program connections appeal to you
Go modular if:
- You need to keep earning while you train
- You want to dip your toes in with a PPL before going all-in
- Work, family, or life commitments aren’t going anywhere
- You learn better when you can take your time and really absorb things
- Big loans or huge upfront costs aren’t realistic for you right now
- You like having options and choosing your own path
Here’s What Nobody Tells You
Airlines don’t actually care which route you took. Seriously. Once you’ve got your licenses, your hours, and you can demonstrate you’re a safe, competent pilot with good judgment—that’s what matters. I’ve met amazing pilots from both paths, and I’ve met mediocre ones from both paths too.
Some clever people even mix it up—start modular to see if they love it, then switch to integrated for the final push. There’s no rule that says you can’t change your mind.
Ready to Get Started?
Take your time with this decision. Talk to pilots who’ve done both routes. Visit some flight schools. Be brutally honest with yourself about your finances and commitments. This isn’t just about getting a license—it’s about starting a career that could last 30+ years.
Whatever you choose, commit to it properly. Half-hearted doesn’t work in aviation.
At EazyPilot, we get it. We’ve helped people down both paths, and we’re here to talk through your specific situation without any pressure. Your dream of flying for a living is absolutely achievable—we just need to figure out which route makes sense for YOU.
Got questions? Confused about which path to take? Let’s have a chat. Reach out to us at EazyPilot and we’ll help you figure this out together.