There are two routes to becoming a commercial airline pilot: the military route and the civilian route. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages which should be considered when pursuing a career in commercial aviation. Would-be pilots should also be aware that commercial airline pilots need a lot of training, which often involves a very large investment of cash, and that employment in commercial aviation is quite varied. Some pilots make top salaries flying internationally for major airlines, while others struggle to make due on local commuter routes.