How to Become an Airline Pilot: Steps and Requirements
The aviation industry captivates millions with its promise of adventure, travel, and cutting-edge technology. Becoming an airline pilot is a dream for many, offering prestige, competitive salaries, and the thrill of flying. This guide will walk you through the role of an airline pilot, the step-by-step path to achieving this career, and the key requirements to succeed.
What Is an Airline Pilot?
An airline pilot is a trained person who flies aeroplanes for a living. These planes usually carry passengers or cargo (goods) from one place to another, either within the country (domestic) or to other countries (international). The pilot’s main job is to make sure the flight is safe, smooth, and on time. They work closely with co-pilots, air traffic control, and the airline crew to manage every part of the flight.
Types of Airline Pilots
There are usually two main types of pilots in a commercial flight:
- First Officer (Co-pilot): This is the second-in-command. The co-pilot helps the captain with flying, takes control when needed, and follows instructions from the captain.
- Captain (Commander): The captain is the primary pilot and leader of the flight. They have more experience and make the final decisions about the flight, especially during difficult situations like bad weather or emergencies.
Another way to divide airline pilots is by what they carry:
- Commercial Airline Pilots: These pilots fly planes that carry passengers.
- Cargo Airline Pilots: These pilots fly planes that carry packages, goods, and mail, not people.
Step-by-Step Process to Become an Airline Pilot
Complete Your 10+2 Education (Class 12th) :-
Your first step is to finish school, especially Class 12th, with the science stream. You must study:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- English
These subjects are important because pilots need to understand how planes work, calculate distances, and communicate clearly.
What if you’re not from a science background?
Don’t worry—you can do bridge courses in Physics and Math after the 12th to become eligible for pilot training.
Tip: Try to score good marks, as some flying schools and cadet programs prefer students with 60% or higher.
Pass a Class 1 Medical Examination :-
Before becoming a pilot, you must prove that you are physically and mentally fit to fly.
You need a Class 1 Medical Certificate issued by government-approved doctors. In India, the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) handles this. In the USA, it’s done by the FAA.
This medical test checks:
- Eyesight (you can wear glasses, but no colour blindness)
- Hearing
- Heart rate and blood pressure
- Lung function
- Mental health
These tests make sure you’re healthy and strong enough to handle the pressures of flying.
Tip: Get this medical done before joining a flying school to avoid wasting time or money later.
Choose and Join a Flying School :-
Now that you’re medically fit, it’s time to learn how to fly. You must choose a recognised and approved flying school, either in India or abroad.
There are two types of training courses:
- Integrated Course – A complete package that trains you from the basics to becoming a commercial pilot in 18–24 months. It’s faster and well-structured.
- Modular Course – Step-by-step training. You complete one stage (like SPL), then move to the next (PPL, then CPL). This is flexible and may cost less.
What to look for in a flying school:
- Government recognition (DGCA in India, FAA in the USA)
- Experienced instructors and good aircraft
- Past student reviews
- Placement support
- Fees and location
Get a Student Pilot License (SPL) :-
Once you join a flying school, the first license you get is called the Student Pilot License (SPL).
This license lets you start basic flying lessons with your instructor.
To get an SPL:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Know how to speak and understand English
- Pass a simple written test
- Clear a basic medical check-up
Once you get your SPL, you can start flying small aircraft with the guidance of a trainer.
Earn a Private Pilot License (PPL) :-
After learning the basics, the next step is to get your Private Pilot License (PPL). This license allows you to fly solo (alone), but not for payment. It’s for practice and learning only.
What you need to do:
- Fly for at least 40–60 hours
- Learn theory subjects like:
- Air Law (rules of the sky)
- Meteorology (weather patterns)
- Navigation (how to find your way in the air)
You must pass a written test and a flying test.
Get Your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) :-
This is the most important step in your pilot journey. A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) allows you to fly for airlines and get paid.
Requirements for CPL:
- 200 flying hours (includes solo flying, cross-country flights, night flying, and more)
- Study advanced theory subjects
- Pass written exams, oral tests, and practical flying tests
Time: Usually takes 18 to 24 months
Cost:
- In India: Around ₹50 to ₹55 lakhs
- Abroad: Around $70,000 to $100,000
Tip: Study hard in both theory and flying to pass all exams and save time and money.
Build Flying Hours and Experience :-
After getting your CPL, you still need more flying hours to be hired by big airlines. Most airlines want pilots with:
- 500 to 1,500 flying hours
You can build experience by:
- Becoming a Flight Instructor (teaching students to fly)
- Flying with charter companies
- Joining small regional airlines
The more hours you fly, the more confident and skilled you become.
Get a Type Rating Certificate :-
Each big aeroplane (like the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737) needs special training, which is called a Type Rating.
