To become a pilot in India, you typically follow these steps:
1. Educational Requirements
- High School: Complete your 10+2 education with Physics, Mathematics, and English as subjects. You need a minimum of 50% marks in these subjects.
- Degree: Though a degree isn’t strictly necessary to begin pilot training, having one, especially in science or engineering, can be beneficial if you aim for a career with airlines or in aviation management.
2. Medical Fitness
- Obtain a Class II Medical Certificate from a Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-approved medical practitioner. Later, you’ll need a Class I Medical Certificate to apply for a commercial pilot’s license (CPL). Good eyesight, hearing, and overall physical fitness are essential.
3. Pilot Training Course
- Enroll in a DGCA-approved Flying School in India or abroad. Popular flying schools in India include:
- Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA) in Uttar Pradesh
- National Flying Training Institute in Gondia, Maharashtra
- Bombay Flying Club in Mumbai
- You’ll need to complete a minimum of 200 hours of flying to qualify for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
4. Ground Training and Exams
- Complete ground training for theoretical subjects like Meteorology, Air Navigation, Air Regulations, and Aircraft & Engines.
- Pass the DGCA Exams on these subjects to qualify for a CPL.
5. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
- After meeting the flying hours requirement and passing the DGCA exams, you can apply for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) from the DGCA.
6. Type Rating (for Airlines)
- To fly a particular type of aircraft, you need Type Rating training for that specific aircraft model, which is often required by airlines.
7. Airline-Specific Training and Experience
- After obtaining a CPL and type rating, apply to airlines. Most airlines conduct entrance exams, simulator tests, and interviews.
- Once selected, you'll undergo airline-specific training and may start as a First Officer. With experience and additional training, you can advance to become a Captain.
Duration and Cost
- Time: Becoming a commercial pilot typically takes 1-2 years if training proceeds smoothly.
- Cost: Pilot training is costly, with expenses often ranging from ₹25–50 lakhs depending on the flying school and aircraft type.
Alternate Path: Indian Air Force
- You can also become a pilot in India through the Indian Air Force (IAF) by qualifying for the National Defence Academy (NDA) or the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam, followed by pilot training in the IAF.