I have always been impressed that pilots can control aircraft's by operating the directional flight controls.
I don't really know much about flying planes. What type of schooling or training is required to be a pilot?
I am not sure, but I think it is 500 hours of flying so they can be safe.
How long does it take  in classroom time to get a basic license? Are there different levels?
Again I am not sure, I do know that you can do a pay to work program so you can operate an aircraft by paying for it.