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Becoming a pilot is not just about flying an aircraft – it is about responsibility, discipline, and passion. The cockpit is one of the most respected workplaces in the world, and pilots enjoy prestige, high salaries, and the opportunity to travel globally. However, the journey of how to become a pilot in India is not as simple as it looks. It requires years of training, hard work, investment, and determination.
Today, India’s aviation sector is among the fastest-growing in the world. With airlines like IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and Akasa Air expanding rapidly and ordering new aircraft, the demand for trained pilots is skyrocketing. According to aviation industry reports, India will need over 15,000 new pilots in the next decade. This makes it the perfect time for students to plan a career in aviation.
This blog will explain everything you need to know about how to become a pilot in India, from eligibility, pilot training process, pilot course fees, scholarship for pilot training, career opportunities, pilot salary in India, and much more. Whether you’re a student who has just passed 10th or 12th, this guide will help you clearly map your path to the cockpit.
Types of Pilots in India
Before diving into the process, let’s understand the different types of pilot careers available. When students ask how to become a pilot in India, the answer depends on which category of pilot they want to be.
1. Commercial Airline Pilot
- Flies passenger and cargo aircraft for domestic or international airlines.
- Requires a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by DGCA.
- Popular route for students after 12th grade.
- Entry-level role: First Officer → Senior role: Captain.
2. Private Pilot
- Holds a Private Pilot License (PPL).
- Can fly aircraft for personal or recreational purposes.
- Cannot earn money through flying.
- Duration is shorter and cost is lower than CPL.
3. Military Pilot (Indian Air Force/Navy/Army)
- Selected through NDA, CDS, or AFCAT exams.
- Trained in fighter jets, helicopters, or transport planes.
- Highly respected, adventurous, and disciplined career path.
- Comes with job security and benefits.
4. Corporate Pilot
- Flies business jets and chartered aircraft for companies or VIPs.
- Requires a CPL with additional ratings.
- Offers flexible schedules and premium packages.
5. Flight Instructor
- Certified to train student pilots.
- Requires a Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) after CPL.
- Many pilots begin as instructors to gain flying hours before joining airlines.
As you can see, there isn’t just one way to become a pilot in India. Depending on your interests, career goals, and budget, you can choose your path.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Become a Pilot in India?
Before enrolling in any pilot course in India, you must meet certain requirements:
- Age Requirement:
- Minimum 17 years to begin pilot training.
- Educational Qualification:
- Must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
- Minimum 50% marks.
- Students from commerce/arts backgrounds can reappear via NIOS/open schooling.
- Medical Requirements:
- Must pass DGCA-approved Class II Medical test initially.
- For CPL, Class I Medical Certificate is mandatory.
- Good vision (6/6 or corrected with glasses) and physical fitness are required.
If you ask how to become a pilot after 10th, remember that you can only start aviation foundation programs, join Air Force NDA preparation, or plan. Professional pilot courses require 12th grade with Physics and Maths.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Pilot in India
Step 1: Decide Civil Aviation or Defence Aviation
- Civil Aviation → CPL training at a DGCA-approved institute.
- Defence Aviation → Join NDA, CDS, or AFCAT for Air Force/Navy/Army.
Step 2: Enroll in a DGCA-Approved Flying School
Choosing the best pilot training institute in India is crucial. Look for:
- Large, well-maintained fleet of aircraft.
- Experienced instructors.
- Transparent pilot course fees in India.
- Strong placement record.
Step 3: Complete Ground School Training
Ground school is the foundation of aviation. You will study:
- Air Navigation – Charting routes, flight planning.
- Meteorology – Understanding weather, winds, clouds, and storms.
- Air Regulations – Indian and international aviation laws.
- Aircraft Technical General – How engines, systems, and instruments work.
- Radio Telephony (RTR) – Communication with ATC and emergency procedures.
Step 4: Flying Training
Students must complete at least 200 flying hours for CPL.
This includes:
- 100 hours solo flying
- 50 hours of cross-country flying
- 20 hours instrument flying
- 15 hours of night flying
⏳ Duration: 12–18 months
Step 5: Clear DGCA Exams
DGCA conducts written exams in all ground subjects, plus the RTR exam. You must clear them to get your license.
Step 6: Obtain Your CPL (Commercial Pilot License)
After clearing exams and completing flying hours, DGCA issues your CPL. This makes you officially eligible to apply as a pilot.
Step 7: Advanced Ratings & Type Rating
- Instrument Rating (IR) → Fly in all weather conditions.
- Multi-Engine Rating (MER) → Fly multi-engine aircraft.
- Type Rating → Mandatory to fly a specific aircraft model like Airbus A320 or Boeing 737.
Pilot Course Duration in India
| Course Type | Duration |
| PPL (Private Pilot License) | 6–12 months |
| CPL (Commercial Pilot License | 18–24 months |
| Cadet Pilot Program | 18–24 months |
| NDA/Defence Pilot Training | 3 years academy + 1–2 years flying |
Pilot Course Fees in India
One of the most important factors in planning is the pilot training fees in India.
| Pilot Course | Approximate Fees (₹) |
| PPL | 8–12 lakhs |
| CPL | 35–50 lakhs |
| Cadet Pilot Program | 70–90 lakhs |
| Type Rating | 15–30 lakhs |
Pilot training cost in India is high, but scholarships and bank loans can help students manage finances.
Scholarships for Pilot Training in India
- Government Scholarships – Some state governments provide merit-based aid.
- Private Scholarships – Offered by certain aviation organizations.
- Airline Cadet Programs – IndiGo, Air India, and other airlines sometimes sponsor cadet pilots.
- Bank Education Loans – Available from most national banks.
Top 5 Best Pilot Training Institutes in India
| Institute | Location | Type | Fees (Approx.) | Highlights |
| Top Crew Aviation | Delhi & Jaipur | Private | ₹35–40 lakhs | Modern fleet, good placement record |
| IGRUA | Uttar Pradesh | Govt. | ₹38 lakhs | Most reputed, govt. support |
| Bombay Flying Club | Mumbai | Private NGO | ₹35–40 lakhs | Oldest aviation club in India |
| Capt. Gopi Aviation Academy | Bengaluru | Private | ₹37–45 lakhs | Strong DGCA record |
| Madhya Pradesh Flying Club | Indore | Govt. | ₹30–35 lakhs | Budget-friendly option |
Pilot Salary in India
Pilot salary in India is one of the highest among professionals.
| Pilot Role | Salary Range (per month) |
| First Officer (Airline) | ₹1.5 – ₹2.5 lakhs |
| Captain (Airline) | ₹6 – ₹10 lakhs |
| Corporate Pilot | ₹2 – ₹4 lakhs |
| Flight Instructor | ₹1 – ₹2 lakhs |
| Military Pilot | ₹80,000 – ₹2 lakhs + perks |
With experience, senior captains in international airlines can earn ₹15–20 lakhs/month.
Challenges in Becoming a Pilot in India
- High cost of training (₹35–50 lakhs).
- Strict DGCA medical requirements.
- Long training hours and demanding schedules.
- High competition for airline jobs.
- Continuous license renewals and exams.
Future Scope of Pilots in India
- With the aviation market growing at double digits, airlines are expanding their fleets.
- The introduction of regional connectivity schemes (UDAN) means more pilots will be required for domestic routes.
- In the next decade, India is projected to become the third-largest aviation market in the world, offering tremendous opportunities for trained pilots.
Suggestion URL :
- How to Become a Pilot After 10th
- How to Prepare for DGCA Exams
- How to Become an Airline Pilot in India
- How to Become a Pilot in India
- How to Clear DGCA Exams in First Attempt
- Commercial Pilot Training in Jaipur
- Pilot Training Institute in Delhi
FAQs – How to Become a Pilot in India
Q1. What is the first step to become a pilot in India?
The first step is completing 12th grade with Physics and Mathematics, followed by applying for DGCA-approved flying schools.
Q2. Can I become a pilot after 10th?
Yes, you can join foundation courses or NDA preparation after 10th, but professional pilot training starts after 12th.
Q3. How many years to become a pilot in India?
It usually takes 2–3 years for CPL and 4–6 years for defence pilots via NDA.
Q4. What is the pilot training cost in India?
On average, it ranges between ₹35–50 lakhs for CPL.
Q5. Which is the best pilot training institute in India?
IGRUA, Bombay Flying Club, and IGIA are among the most reputed.
Q6. Is there a scholarship for pilot training in India?
Yes, government schemes, airline cadet programs, and private aviation scholarships are available.
Q7. What is the starting pilot salary in India?
Freshers earn between ₹1.5–₹2.5 lakhs/month as First Officers.