I came up with a simple twelve-step program for pilot excel­lence. I figure if a pilot can follow the steps of this program to become a professional pilot, their individual flying costs might be reduced. If I follow the guidelines to become a professional pilot, flying should be a more efficient and enjoyable experience. Efficiency usually saves on the bottom line. If a pilot followed the same path, their cost in aviation could be reduced. Regular maintenance on aircraft could reduce failures from neglect and in turn reduce the number of insurance claims as a result. Re­current training could do the same.