This story was made in partnership with Venture West Airline Pilot Academy. Want to be a pilot? Get started with Venture West here.

Want to be a pilot? Here's how you can start today...

1) Start Learning Online

There's a ton of online tools that can help you learn to fly. Get started learning the basics through videos and quizzes.

2) Take A Discovery Flight

Taking a discovery flight at your local airport is one of the best ways to get started. Discovery flights last about 30-45 minutes, and they're an excellent way to find out what flying is really like.

3) Practice With Flight Simulators

Flight simulators will develop your hand-eye coordination skills and aviation knowledge. If you don't want to buy a full desktop simulator, try a flight simulator app on your phone. It's a great way to expose yourself to basic flight principles and aerodynamics.

4) Listen To Live ATC

Radio communication is challenging for most students. Get started by listening to busy radio frequencies at general aviation airports like Van Nuys (KVNY), Teterboro (KTEB), or Denver Centennial (KAPA).

5) Get Your Medical Certificate

Find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) near you and get the medical certificate out of the way.

If you're planning to follow a professional path in aviation, we recommend obtaining a first or second class medical. They have increased requirements, and the testing will ensure nothing will medically disqualify you when you're progressing through your training.

Want to be a pilot? Get started with Venture West Airline Pilot Academy, and find out what it takes to start your aviation career here.