To become a pilot in India, you can follow these general steps, which apply mainly to commercial pilot training after 12th grade:
Basic Eligibility
- Complete Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized board, with at least 50-60% marks depending on the institution
- Be at least 17 years old to start pilot training; for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), the minimum age is 18 years
- Obtain medical fitness certificates from DGCA-authorized medical examiners:
- Class II medical for Student Pilot License (SPL) and Private Pilot License (PPL).
- Class I medical for CPL
Training Pathway for Commercial Pilots
- Enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school or academy after meeting eligibility criteria
- Complete ground school training covering aviation theory, meteorology, navigation, and flight rules
- Obtain a Student Pilot License (SPL) after initial flying hours (minimum 20 hours)
- Complete flying training :
- Minimum 40 hours for Private Pilot License (PPL).
- Minimum 200 hours for Commercial Pilot License (CPL), including 100 hours solo flying
- Pass DGCA theoretical and practical exams for CPL
- Gain flying experience by working as a co-pilot or instructor to accumulate hours for airline jobs (usually 250+ hours)
Alternative Routes
- Indian Air Force (IAF) Pilot : Appear for NDA exam after 12th with PCM (age 16.5-19.5), or CDS exam after graduation. Training at NDA or Air Force Academy leads to commissioning as a pilot officer
- Cadet Pilot Programs : Some airlines offer cadet pilot programs with specific eligibility (e.g., 60% in PCM and English), which include training and a conditional job offer
Additional Notes
- If you did not take PCM in 12th, you can appear for these subjects through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS)
- The entire CPL training typically takes 1.5 to 2 years, including type rating on specific aircraft
- After CPL, pilots may pursue type rating and additional endorsements to improve employability
This pathway ensures you meet the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) requirements and are qualified to apply for pilot positions in India. In summary, becoming a pilot in India involves completing 12th with PCM, obtaining medical clearance, joining a DGCA-approved flying school, completing required flying hours and exams, and optionally gaining experience through cadet programs or defense services
