How to become a pilot in India in 2024
A pilot is a person who is trained to operate and navigate an aircraft, such as a plane or helicopter, for transportation or other purposes. Pilots are responsible for the safety of the passengers, cargo, and the aircraft itself, and must have knowledge of navigation, weather, and other factors that can affect flight.
They must also be licensed by the appropriate regulatory body, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Europe.
How to Become a Pilot in India After the 12th?
1. Complete Class XII with Physics and Maths: You will need a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in both Physics and Maths at the 12th level to be eligible for Pilot training.
2. Obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL): You should get a commercial pilot license from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which is the regulatory authority for civil aviation in India.
3. Enrol in a Flying Training School: After obtaining your CPL, you should enrol in a flying training school and complete the course. The flying training program usually takes around 18 to 24 months to complete.
4. Clear a Medical Test: You need to clear a medical
Eligibility of Pilot Course after 12th
To become a pilot in India after 12th, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. You must have passed 10+2 from a recognized board with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
2. You must be at least 17 years of age and not older than 24 years of age on the day you start your flying training.
3. You must acquire a valid Class I Medical Certificate from an approved CMO/AMC before enrolling for the pilot course.
4. You must also possess an Indian Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Multi-crew Pilot License (MPL) issued by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
5. You must have completed a minimum of 200 hours of flying experience
Where to Pursue Pilot Courses after 12?
In India, several institutes and organizations offer pilot training courses after the 12th standard. Some of the most popular options include:
Indian Air Force (IAF): The IAF offers a flying branch for eligible candidates through the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Air Force Academy (IAFA).
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) approved Flying Training Institutes (FTIs): These institutes offer various pilot training courses such as the Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), and the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Some of the popular FTIs in India include the Madhya Pradesh Flying Club, Bombay Flying Club, and Rajiv Gandhi Academy for Aviation Technology.
Indian Institute of Technology (IITs): Some IITs in India, such as IIT Bombay, offer aeronautical engineering courses which can be a good foundation for a career as a pilot.
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISERs): Some IISERs in India, such as IISER Pune, offer aeronautical engineering courses which can be a good foundation for a career as a pilot.
Private Pilot Training Institutes: Several private pilot training institutes such as CAE Oxford Aviation Academy, Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi, etc. offer pilot training courses.
It's important to note that most of the above-mentioned institutes require students to pass the 10+2 examination with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects and English as one of the subjects, and also have a certain age, medical and other criteria. It's best to check with the institute for the specific details.
A Pilot Eligibility Criteria in India
In India, the eligibility criteria for becoming a pilot are as follows:
- Age: The candidate should be at least 17 years of age at the time of starting the training.
- Education: The candidate should have passed 10+2 or equivalent examinations with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects and English as one of the subjects.
- Medical Fitness: The candidate should be medically fit as per the standards set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
- Vision: The candidate should have normal vision (corrected or uncorrected) and should not have any colour blindness.
- English Proficiency: The candidate should have a good command of English, both spoken and written.
- Nationality: The candidate should be an Indian citizen.
- Experience: The candidate should have a minimum of 200 hours of flying experience for a commercial pilot license (CPL) and a minimum of 50 hours for a private pilot license (PPL).
Please note that these are the general eligibility criteria and may vary depending on the training institute or school.
Types of Pilot Careers
There are several different types of pilot careers available, each with its own set of requirements and responsibilities. Some of the most common pilot career paths include:
Commercial Airline Pilot: Commercial airline pilots are responsible for flying commercial passenger and cargo planes for airlines. They typically have a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) and have to meet certain flight hour requirements.
Military Pilot: Military pilots fly planes for the armed forces, such as the Indian Air Force (IAF) or the Indian Navy. They typically go through rigorous training and must meet specific physical and mental requirements.
Corporate Pilot: Corporate pilots fly private planes for companies or wealthy individuals. They often fly smaller, more specialized aircraft and may be responsible for aircraft maintenance and scheduling.
General Aviation Pilot: General aviation pilots fly a wide variety of aircraft, including small single-engine planes and helicopters. They may work in roles such as agricultural spraying, aerial photography, or search and rescue operations.
Test Pilot: Test pilots are responsible for testing new aircraft and aircraft systems. They often have extensive experience and knowledge of specific aircraft types and may work for manufacturers or government agencies.
Flight Instructor: Flight instructors are responsible for training other pilots, from student pilots to experienced professionals. They may work for flight schools, military organizations, or commercial airlines.
Air Traffic Controller: Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) are responsible for the safe and efficient flow of aircraft in the airspace under their jurisdiction. They are responsible for separating aircraft, issuing instructions and clearances, and providing information to pilots.
License to Become a Pilot
To become a pilot, you will need to obtain a pilot's license from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India. There are several different types of licenses available, each with its own requirements and privileges. Some of the most common licenses include:
Student Pilot License (SPL): This is the first license a student pilot will obtain. It allows them to fly solo under the supervision of a certified flight instructor.
Private Pilot License (PPL): The PPL allows a pilot to fly non-commercial flights with passengers and to act as pilot in command. To obtain a PPL, a pilot must have completed a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, including at least 20 hours of solo flight time and have passed a written and practical examination.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL): The CPL allows a pilot to fly for commercial purposes and act as pilot in command. To obtain a CPL, a pilot must have completed a minimum of 200 hours of flight time, including at least 100 hours of solo flight time and passed a written and practical examination.
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL): The ATPL is the highest level of pilot license and allows a pilot to act as pilot in command of a commercial aircraft. To obtain an ATPL, a pilot must have completed a minimum of 1500 hours of flight time, including at least 500 hours of solo flight time, and passed a written and practical examination.
Other types of licenses are also available such as Multi-Engine Rating, Instrument Rating, etc.
It's important to note that the flight time and other requirements may vary depending on the type of aircraft and the training organization. It's best to check with the DGCA or the flight school for specific details.
Benefits of a Career as a Pilot
A career as a pilot offers several benefits, including:
High earning potential: Pilots, particularly commercial airline pilots, can earn a significant salary, especially as they gain more experience and advance in their careers.
Travel opportunities: Pilots have the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world as part of their job.
Variety of roles: There are many different types of pilot careers, from commercial airline pilot to corporate pilot to military pilot, each with its own set of responsibilities and rewards.
Sense of accomplishment: Pilots have the satisfaction of knowing they are responsible for safely transporting passengers and cargo and are part of a highly skilled and respected profession.
Job security: The aviation industry is likely to continue to grow, and there will be a demand for pilots in the future.
Flexibility: Pilots can work flexible schedules, including part-time and seasonal positions.
Professional Development: Pilots have the opportunity to continue to learn and develop new skills throughout their careers.
Adventure and excitement: Flying planes can be an exciting and adventurous profession, and pilots get to experience the thrill of flying and the beauty of the world from a unique perspective.
It's important to note that the work schedule of a pilot can be demanding and may include irregular hours, night shifts, and long periods away from home, and it's also a high-stress profession. So, before choosing it as a career, one should consider the pros and cons and if he/she is willing to make the commitment.
Certifications to Become Airline Pilot
To become an airline pilot, you will need to obtain a pilot's license and certifications from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India. Here are the main certifications that are required:
Commercial Pilot License (CPL): The CPL allows a pilot to fly for commercial purposes and act as a pilot in command. To obtain a CPL, a pilot must have completed a minimum of 200 hours of flight time, including at least 100 hours of solo flight time and passed a written and practical examination.
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL): The ATPL is the highest level of pilot license and allows a pilot to act as a pilot in command of a commercial aircraft. To obtain an ATPL, a pilot must have completed a minimum of 1500 hours of flight time, including at least 500 hours of solo flight time, and passed a written and practical examination.
Multi-Engine Rating: A Multi-Engine Rating is an endorsement to the pilot's license that allows them to fly multi-engine aircraft. It requires additional flight training and a practical test.
Instrument Rating: An Instrument Rating is an endorsement to the pilot's license that allows them to fly in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). It requires additional flight training and a practical test.
Type Rating: A Type Rating is an endorsement to the pilot's license that allows them to fly a specific type of aircraft. It requires additional training and a practical test.
Medical Certification: All pilots are required to hold a valid medical certificate issued by the DGCA to prove that they meet the medical standards set by the DGCA.
It's important to note that these certifications may vary depending on the type of aircraft and the training organization, and the flight time and other requirements may vary depending on the type of aircraft and the training organization. It's best to check with the DGCA or the flight school for specific details.
UG Courses to Become a Pilot
There are several undergraduate (UG) courses that can help prepare you for a career as a pilot. Some of the most popular options include:
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Aeronautical Engineering:
This course provides students with a solid foundation in aeronautical engineering and includes subjects such as aircraft design, propulsion systems, and aerodynamics. Graduates of this program can go on to work as pilots or pursue further studies in aeronautical engineering.
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Aviation:
This course provides students with a broad understanding of the aviation industry and includes subjects such as flight dynamics, navigation, and aircraft systems. Graduates of this program can go on to work as pilots or pursue further studies in aviation.
Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Aerospace Engineering:
This course provides students with a strong foundation in aerospace engineering and includes subjects such as aircraft design, propulsion systems, and aerodynamics. Graduates of this program can go on to work as pilots or pursue further studies in aerospace engineering.
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Physics, Mathematics & Computer Science:
These subjects are the foundation subjects for many aeronautical and aerospace engineering courses, and a degree in these subjects could be a good foundation for a career as a pilot.
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Computer Science and Engineering:
Some of the private airlines are also conducting the interview for the post of Pilot for candidates who are from computer science backgrounds, so this could be another option for the students.
It's important to note that these undergraduate courses will not directly lead to the pilot's license, but it will provide the foundation knowledge which will be helpful in the pilot training. After completing these undergraduate courses, students will need to complete a pilot training program and pass the necessary exams to obtain a pilot's license.
PG Courses to Become Pilot
There are several post-graduate (PG) courses that can help prepare you for a career as a pilot. Some of the most popular options include:
Master of Science (M.Sc) in Aeronautical Engineering:
This course builds upon the foundation of aeronautical engineering that is gained during a B.Sc program and includes advanced subjects such as aircraft design, propulsion systems, and aerodynamics. Graduates of this program can go on to work as pilots or pursue further studies in aeronautical engineering.
Master of Science (M.Sc) in Aviation:
This course builds upon the foundation of aviation that is gained during a B.Sc program and includes advanced subjects such as flight dynamics, navigation, and aircraft systems. Graduates of this program can go on to work as pilots or pursue further studies in aviation.
Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Aerospace Engineering:
This course builds upon the foundation of aerospace engineering that is gained during a B.Tech program and includes advanced subjects such as aircraft design, propulsion systems, and aerodynamics. Graduates of this program can go on to work as pilots or pursue further studies in aerospace engineering.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Aviation Management:
This course provides students with a broad understanding of the aviation industry and its management and can be useful for those who want to work in the aviation industry in management roles.
Master of Science (M.Sc) in Physics, Mathematics & Computer Science:
These subjects are the foundation subjects for many aeronautical and aerospace engineering courses, and a degree in these subjects could be a good foundation for a career as a pilot.
It's important to note that these postgraduate courses will not directly lead to the pilot's license, but it will provide the foundation knowledge which will be helpful in the pilot training. After completing these postgraduate courses, students will need to complete a pilot training program and pass the necessary exams to obtain a pilot's license.
Salary of Pilot in India
The salary of a pilot in India can vary depending on their experience, type of license, and type of employer. Here is a rough estimate of the salary range for some common pilot roles:
Commercial Airline Pilot: The starting salary for a commercial airline pilot in India can range from INR 2-4 lakhs per annum for a fresher to INR 15-20 lakhs per annum for a senior captain, depending on the airline and aircraft type.
Corporate Pilot: The salary for a corporate pilot in India can range from INR 6-10 lakhs per annum, depending on the company and aircraft type.
Military Pilot: The salary for a military pilot in India varies depending on their rank and experience, but it can range from INR 70,000 to INR 2 lakhs per month.
General Aviation Pilot: The salary for a general aviation pilot in India can range from INR 2-6 lakhs per annum, depending on the type of aircraft and employer.
It's important to note that these are rough estimates and the salary can vary greatly depending on the pilot's experience, type of license, and type of employer. Additionally, other factors such as location and the cost of living, should also be considered.
It's also worth noting that for most of the roles, the pilots are also entitled to various perks such as accommodation, insurance, and travel benefits
Physical Requirements of Pilot Course
The physical requirements for pilot training can vary depending on the training organization and the type of aircraft that the pilot will be flying. However, in general, male candidates for pilot training are required to meet the following physical requirements:
Height: Candidates should be at least 157 cm (5 feet 2 inches) tall.
Weight: Candidates should be in proportion to their height and should not be overweight.
Vision: Candidates should have normal vision (corrected or uncorrected) and should not have any colour blindness.
Physical Fitness: Candidates should be in good physical health and free from any medical conditions that could affect their ability to fly.
Hearing: Candidates should have normal hearing and should not have any hearing deficiencies.
Blood Pressure: The candidate should have normal blood pressure.
Medical Examination: Candidates will be required to undergo a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate from a DGCA-approved Medical Examiner to prove that they meet the medical standards set by the DGCA.
It's important to note that these are the general physical requirements and may vary depending on the training institute or school. Also, these requirements may change over time as per DGCA regulations, so it's best to check with the DGCA or the flight school for specific details.
Difference between Civil Aviation and Armed Force Aviation
Civil aviation and armed force aviation are two distinct branches of aviation that have some similarities but also some significant differences.
Purpose: Civil aviation is primarily focused on commercial transportation of passengers and cargo, while armed force aviation is focused on military operations and defense.
Training: Civil pilots are trained to fly commercial aircraft, while military pilots are trained to fly military aircraft and engage in combat operations.
Licensing: Civil pilots are licensed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and must meet the standards set by the DGCA, while military pilots are trained and licensed by the respective armed forces.
Career Path: Civil pilots typically work for commercial airlines or private companies, while military pilots work for the Indian Air Force (IAF) or the Indian Navy.
Salary and benefits: Civil pilots typically earn more than military pilots, and have more stability in their jobs. They may also have better benefits, such as insurance and retirement plans. Military pilots, on the other hand, may have more opportunities for advancement and may be eligible for certain benefits such as housing and education allowances.
Risk: Civil pilots generally face less risk than military pilots, as their primary responsibility is to transport passengers and cargo safely. Military pilots, however, may be required to engage in combat and other high-risk operations.
Work schedule: The work schedule of a civil pilot can be demanding and may include irregular hours, night shifts, and long periods away from home, while a military pilot's schedule can be even more unpredictable, as they may be called upon to fly at any time, and may be deployed for extended periods.
Overall, both Civil and armed force aviation are important aspects of the aviation industry and play a vital role in the transportation and defence of a country.
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