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Flying an aircraft has always been a childhood dream for many students. While some dream of becoming doctors or engineers, others want to rule the skies. If you are currently in Class 10th and asking yourself, “How to become a pilot after 10th in India?”, then you are already a step ahead in planning your future.
Becoming a pilot in India is not only about flying planes; it is about discipline, responsibility, technical knowledge, and leadership skills. Pilots play a crucial role in the aviation industry, ensuring passenger safety, operating highly advanced aircraft, and managing flights across different regions of the world.
However, the path to becoming a professional pilot is not as simple as joining a course right after Class 10. There are certain eligibility criteria, educational requirements, training hours, exams, and licenses that you must achieve before you can work as a pilot.
In this detailed blog, we will explain:
- Whether you can become a pilot after 10th
- The step-by-step process of becoming a pilot in India
- Pilot training institutes, fees, and course duration
- Scholarships available for aviation students
- Career opportunities and pilot salary in India
- FAQs to clear all your doubts
Let’s begin your journey toward the skies.
Can You Become a Pilot After 10th in India?
This is the most common question asked by students: “Is it possible to start pilot training right after 10th?”
The simple answer is – No, you cannot directly become a professional pilot after Class 10th. To apply for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in India, you must complete 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
But that doesn’t mean your dream is on hold. Class 10th is the perfect time to prepare yourself for the journey. You can:
- Choose the Science stream with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) in Class 11 and 12.
- Start improving your physical fitness, as you’ll need to pass DGCA medical exams.
- Work on English language and communication skills, since aviation is an English-dominated industry.
- Read about aircraft basics, navigation, and meteorology to build early interest.
In short, while you can’t join a flying school after 10th, you can set a strong foundation for your career.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Pilot in India
To fully understand how to become a pilot in India, here’s a step-by-step roadmap:
1. Complete Your 12th Standard with PCM
- Mandatory subjects: Physics and Mathematics.
- Minimum marks required: 50% (some institutes prefer 60%).
- If you didn’t take PCM, you can still apply later through NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling) or equivalent exams.
2. Pass DGCA Medical Exams
To become a pilot, you must be medically fit. There are two stages:
- Class 2 Medical Exam (basic fitness)
- Class 1 Medical Exam (required for CPL)
These tests check your eyesight, hearing, blood pressure, heart health, and overall physical condition.
3. Apply for Student Pilot License (SPL)
- Minimum age: 16 years
- Issued after a short oral/written exam
- Allows you to start basic flight training
4. Join a Flying School in India
This is where you begin formal pilot training. You’ll learn both theory (ground school) and practical flying.
Subjects taught in ground school include:
- Air Navigation
- Aviation Meteorology
- Air Regulations
- Technical General
- Radio Telephony
5. Accumulate Flying Hours
To get your CPL, you must complete at least 200 flying hours. These include:
- Solo flights
- Cross-country flights
- Night flying
- Instrument flying
6. Clear DGCA Written Exams
The DGCA conducts multiple exams you must pass, such as:
- Air Navigation
- Air Regulations
- Aviation Meteorology
- Technical General / Technical Specific
7. Obtain Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Once you complete the above steps, you are awarded the CPL, which makes you eligible to apply for airline jobs as a co-pilot.
Types of Pilot Licenses in India
When exploring the pilot course in India, you’ll come across different licenses.
- SPL (Student Pilot License) – First step, basic flying practice.
- PPL (Private Pilot License) – For personal flying, not for salary.
- CPL (Commercial Pilot License) – For professional airline pilots.
- ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) – Required to become a captain.
Out of these, the CPL is the most important for those who want to build a career.
Best Pilot Training Institute in India
Choosing the best pilot training institute in India is one of the most crucial decisions. The quality of your training, aircraft fleet, instructors, and placement opportunities depends on the institute.
Top Institutes Include:
- Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA), Uttar Pradesh, India’s top government flying school.
- Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGIA), Jaipur.
- Bombay Flying Club, Mumbai.
- Top Crew Aviation, Delhi.
- Madhya Pradesh Flying Club.
When selecting an institute, always check:
- DGCA approval
- Number and quality of aircraft
- Safety standards
- Training costs
- Alum success rate
Pilot Course Fees and Duration
Pilot Training Cost in India
Training costs are high because aviation requires advanced aircraft, technology, and maintenance.
- SPL: ₹50,000 – ₹2 Lakhs
- PPL: ₹8 – ₹12 Lakhs
- CPL: ₹35 – ₹50 Lakhs
So, the total pilot training cost in India can range from ₹40 Lakhs to ₹65 Lakhs, depending on the institute and location.
Pilot Course Duration
- Private Pilot License (PPL): 6–12 months
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): 18–24 months
- Total time: 2–3 years (including exams and flying hours)
Scholarships for Pilot Training in India
Since fees are high, many students search for scholarships for pilot training in India. Luckily, several options are available:
- DGCA Merit Scholarships for top-performing students.
- IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program Scholarships (partial funding).
- Air India Scholarships for deserving candidates.
- Government of India Educational Schemes for minority, SC/ST, and economically weaker students.
Always apply early, as scholarships are limited and highly competitive.
Pilot Salary in India
One of the most attractive aspects of becoming a pilot is the high salary.
Average Salary Structure
- Commercial Pilot Salary in India: ₹1.5 – ₹6 Lakhs/month.
- Captain Salary in India: ₹8 – ₹12 Lakhs/month.
- Cargo Pilot Salary in India: ₹3 – ₹7 Lakhs/month.
- Private Jet Pilot Salary in India: ₹4 – ₹10 Lakhs/month.
The pilot salary in India depends on the airline, type of aircraft, and your flying experience.
Career Opportunities After Pilot Training
Once you complete your CPL, you can choose different career paths:
- Commercial Airlines (IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air)
- Cargo Airlines (Blue Dart, FedEx, SpiceXpress)
- Private Jets and Charter Companies
- Flight Instructor Jobs
- Indian Air Force (through AFCAT exam)
The opportunities are vast, both in India and abroad.
Comparison: Pilot Training in India vs Abroad
| Feature | India | Abroad |
| Training Cost | ₹40–65 Lakhs | ₹25–50 Lakhs |
| Course Duration | 2–3 years | 1.5–2 years |
| Job Opportunities | Indian airlines | Global airlines |
| Quality of Training | Good, DGCA approved | Advanced technology, faster training |
| Living Cost | Lower | Higher |
Many Indian students also choose to study abroad, as training is often faster and sometimes more affordable.
Advantages of Becoming a Pilot in India
- Prestigious and respected profession
- High salary with growth potential
- Opportunity to travel the world
- Fast promotions and career stability
- Thrilling lifestyle with international exposure
FAQs on How to Become a Pilot After 10th in India
Q1. Can I join a pilot course right after 10th?
No, you must complete 12th with PCM before joining a flying school.
Q2. What is the minimum age to become a pilot in India?
16 years for SPL, 18 years for CPL.
Q3. How much does pilot training cost in India?
Around ₹35–50 Lakhs for CPL.
Q4. Is there any scholarship for pilot training in India?
Yes, DGCA, airlines, and the government provide scholarships.
Q5. Which is the best pilot training institute in India?
IGRUA, IGIA, Bombay Flying Club, and Top Crew Aviation are among the best.
Q6. How long is the pilot course duration?
2–3 years, including flying hours and exams.
Q7. What is the average pilot salary in India?
₹1.5 – ₹6 Lakhs per month for commercial pilots.