How to Become a Pilot in India: Qualifications, Training & Salary Guide
India’s aviation industry is growing fast, and more pilots are needed. As flying becomes cheaper, the demand for skilled pilots is increasing. Becoming a pilot is not easy, but it is a rewarding job. If you dream of flying, this guide will show you the steps to becoming a pilot in India, including the needed qualifications, training, and job options.
Types of Pilots in India
Understanding the various categories of pilots in India is important. It helps you choose the right path for your career.
Having the proper training and certification is required for success in aviation. In India, pilots are classified based on their job roles, training, and flying locations.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL):-
A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) allows an individual to operate aircraft for commercial purposes, such as transporting passengers and cargo. Various domestic and international airlines can hire a CPL holder, providing opportunities to move from co-pilot to Captain with experience.
- Job Role: Operating commercial aircraft for airlines.
- Work Environment: Airlines, charter services, cargo flights.
- Eligibility: Minimum 12th-grade education in Physics and Mathematics; must pass medical fitness tests.
- Required Training Hours: Minimum of 200 flying hours.
- Career Progression: First Officer → Senior First Officer → Captain → Senior Captain
- Salary Range: Entry-level pilots earn between ₹1.5 lacks to ₹2 lakh per month, while experienced captains earn up to ₹6 lakh per month.
Private Pilot License (PPL):-
A Private Pilot License is for a person who wants to fly for fun or non-business reasons. The holders of PPL cannot receive payment for providing flying services.
- Job Role: Flying privately owned aircraft for relaxation or personal business.
- Work Environment: Aero clubs, personal aircraft.
- Eligibility: Minimum 12th-grade education in Physics and Mathematics; must pass medical fitness tests.
- Required Training Hours: Approximately 40-50 flying hours.
- Career Progression: PPL holders can upgrade to CPL with additional training.
- Salary: Not applicable, as PPL is for non-commercial use.
Military Pilot
Army pilots are part of the Indian Air Force, Navy, and Army Aviation Corps. They fly all types of aircraft, from fighter aircraft to transport aircraft. Being an army pilot means going through tough training and being strongly dedicated to national security.
- Job Role: Piloting military aircraft for defense operations.
- Work Environment: Indian Air Force, Navy, Army Aviation Corps.
- Eligibility: Must clear defense entrance exams like NDA (National Defence Academy) or CDS (Combined Defence Services) and undergo military training.
- Training Requirements: Completing training at institutions like NDA, Air Force Academy, or Naval Academy.
- Career Progression: Flying Officer → Flight Lieutenant → Squadron Leader → Wing Commander → Group Captain
- Salary Range: Starting salaries range from ₹75,000 to ₹2 lakh per month, depending on rank and experience.
Helicopter Pilot :-
Helicopter pilots fly rotorcraft for various applications, including corporate transport, rescue, medical evacuation, and coastal operations.
- Job Role: Piloting helicopters for transportation, emergency services, or military purposes.
- Work Environment: Commercial airlines, government agencies, defense forces, private corporations.
- Eligibility: Similar to CPL requirements but specific to helicopters.
- Required Training Hours: Around 150 flying hours for a Commercial Helicopter Pilot License (CHPL).
- Salary Range: ₹1.2 lahks to ₹3 lahks per month, depending on experience and specialization.
Flight Instructor (CFI – Certified Flight Instructor):-
A Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) plays a crucial role in aviation. It’s not just a job but a responsibility to train and guide future pilots in flight schools or clubs.
- Job Role: Teaching and training students in aviation academies.
- Work Environment: Flight training schools, aviation academies.
- Eligibility: Must hold a CPL with additional instructor certification.
- Required Training Hours: Additional training beyond CPL, including instructional flight experience.
- Career Progression: Flight Instructor → Chief Flight Instructor → Examiner
- Salary Range: ₹80,000 to ₹2 lakh per month, depending on experience.
Educational Qualifications & Eligibility for Pilots in India
Before starting pilot training, it is important to fulfill specific educational, medical, and age-related requirements. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) outlines the eligibility measures for obtaining pilot licenses.
Academic Requirements:
- 10+2 Education: Completing higher secondary education with Physics and Mathematics is required.
- Alternative Pathways: Candidates who did not study Physics and Mathematics in 10+2 can take these subjects through recognized open schooling systems (such as NIOS – National Institute of Open Schooling).
- Language Ability: A strong command of English is important, as it is the primary language for aviation communication, both nationally and internationally.
Age Limit:
- Student Pilot License (SPL): Minimum 16 years of age.
- Private Pilot License (PPL): Minimum 17 years of age.
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): Minimum 18 years of age.
Medical Fitness Requirements:
Every aspiring pilot must experience a medical examination approved by the DGCA to confirm that they meet the health standards necessary for aviation.
- Class 2 Medical Certificate: Required to obtain a Student Pilot License (SPL) and begin flight training.
- Class 1 Medical Certificate: Mandatory for obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- Vision Standards:
- Normal color vision is required.
- Visual understanding of 6/6 (with or without correction).
- If pilots wear glasses, their power should not be too high, and they must not have myopia or other disqualifying eye conditions.
Entrance Exams & Selection Process
For those looking to become commercial pilots, the training process usually includes passing entrance exams, choosing a flight school, and completing the necessary licensing steps.
- Cadet Pilot Programs: Many Indian airlines (such as IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet) conduct their own Cadet Pilot Programs, which include entrance exams, interviews, and IQ tests.
- DGCA Exam: After flight training, candidates must pass the DGCA theoretical exams to qualify for a CPL.
- NDA (National Defence Academy) Exam: Candidates aiming to become military pilots must clear the UPSC NDA exam, followed by strict training at the National Defence Academy or Air Force Academy.
Additional Skills & Requirements
- Mental and Physical Stamina: Pilots must be able to handle long flights, high pressure, and emergencies.
- Decision-Making Ability: Quick thinking and problem-solving skills are crucial for handling in-flight challenges.
- Situational Awareness: A good understanding of weather patterns, airspace regulations, and flight safety measures.
Steps to Become a Pilot in India
To become a pilot in India, you must complete training, get the required licenses, and receive approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Whether you want to fly commercial planes, private jets, helicopters, or military aircraft, the journey has several steps. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Meet the Educational and Medical Requirements
Before enrolling in a pilot training program, you must fulfill the basic educational and medical requirements.
- You would have passed 10+2 in Physics and Mathematics from a well-known board. If you did not study from any well-known board, you may achieve them through an open schooling system (e.g., NIOS—National Institute of Open Schooling).
- English is a well-known language because it is the international language of aviation. It is used for communication among pilots, air traffic controllers, and international authorities.
- You will need to obtain a DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate. The certificate will confirm that you have the necessary vision, hearing, and general health. The physicians who conduct the medical examination are certified by DGCA throughout India.
Step 2: Choose the Type of Pilot License
Before you start training, choose the type of pilot license that fits your career goals.
- A commercial Pilot License (CPL) must be hired by airlines, charter operators, or cargo companies.
- A Private Pilot License (PPL) is for individuals who wish to fly for fun and not for commercial purposes.
- Future military pilots must pass entry exams such as the NDA (National Defence Academy) or CDS (Combined Defence Services) to join the Indian Air Force, Navy, or Army Aviation Corps.
- Pilots operating helicopters for commercial missions by companies, emergencies, or the foreign industry require a Commercial Helicopter Pilot License (CHPL).
Step 3: Enroll in a DGCA-Approved Flight School
Once you’ve chosen your path, enrolling in a DGCA-approved flying school in India is the next step. Flight academies provide theoretical and practical training, including mock and actual flying sessions.
Some well-known DGCA-approved flight schools in India include:
- TOP CREW AVIATION
- Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA)
- Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University (RGNAU)
- Bombay Flying Club
| Institution | Location | Specialization |
| TOP CREW AVIATION | Jaipur, Rajasthan | Comprehensive CPL training with Modern facilities |
| IGRUA | Amethi, UP | Government-run aviation academy |
| RGNAU | Rae Bareli, UP | Aviation-focused university |
| Bombay Flying Club | Mumbai | One of the oldest flying clubs |
Step 4: Obtain a Student Pilot License (SPL)
Before starting actual flight training, you must obtain a Student Pilot License (SPL), which is the first step in becoming a certified pilot.
