In April 1974, the band finalized its contract with EMI and entered Abbey Road Studios to record their first album. At their side was navigator, Alan Parsons who David had picked from a list of EMI staff producers based upon his notable work with Paul McCartney and Pink Floyd. On June 7, 1974, Pilot released their first single "Just a Smile". While the single seemed to get stuck at the gate, the crew didn't let a little turbulence disrupt the flight. Pilot re-recorded a number of the tracks, including adding strings to the song that would become their first smash. They also secured the permanent services of co-Pilot guitarist Ian Bairnson.

On September 20, 1974, the band got the tailwind it needed with the release of "Magic". "Magic" became an international smash going to #7 in the UK and #3 in the U.S. On October 4, 1974, Pilot released its debut album, "From the Album of the Same Name." About a month later, Pilot would make their live debut opening for Sparks on a 30 day UK tour. Pilot was cruising at 30 thousand feet.