Flying an aircraft high above the clouds is one of the most thrilling and respected professions in the world. Many young individuals in India dream of becoming a pilot, inspired by the idea of travelling across countries, operating complex machines, and wearing a uniform that symbolises responsibility, leadership, and excellence. However, becoming a pilot is not just about flying—it involves in-depth knowledge, practical training, and rigorous exams. It’s a highly regulated profession, and in India, the path to becoming a licensed pilot is governed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
In this guide, we will walk you through every single step required to become a pilot in India, from academic qualifications and medical tests to flying hours and license procedures. Whether you are still in school or have recently completed your 12th grade, this blog will help you plan your journey to the skies.
Why Choose a Career as a Pilot in India?
Choosing to become a pilot is more than a career decision—it is a commitment to adventure, discipline, and lifelong learning. In India, where the aviation industry is experiencing rapid growth, pilots are in high demand. The launch of new airlines, expansion of airports, and government initiatives like UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) have created more opportunities than ever for aspiring aviators.
Here are some reasons why this career stands out:
- Prestigious Lifestyle: Pilots enjoy a professional life that is admired globally. From the uniform to the responsibility of flying hundreds of passengers, it’s a job that commands respect.
- Travel Opportunities: Pilots have the opportunity to explore different cities, countries, and cultures as part of their regular work.
- High Earning Potential: Starting salaries are already attractive, and they increase significantly with experience and airline type.
- Growth and Upgrades: Over time, a pilot can advance from co-pilot to captain and transition into roles such as training, management, or airline safety.
- Dynamic Work Environment: No two days are the same. Weather, destinations, and aircraft types constantly change, making every flight a new experience.
Become a Pilot in India: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements
The first step in your pilot journey is to fulfil the minimum academic criteria. In India, you must have completed 10+2 (Class 12th) education with the Science stream, specifically Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. English must also be one of your core subjects.
Key Points:
- Minimum Qualification: 10+2 from a recognised board
- Required Subjects: Physics, Mathematics, and English
- Recommended Minimum Score: 50–60% marks
If you did not study science in school, don’t worry. You can still become a pilot by appearing for Physics and Math exams through NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling) or any other recognised open schooling board. This allows students from commerce or arts backgrounds to pursue aviation still.
Having a strong base in science subjects helps in understanding the technical concepts of flying, including aerodynamics, aircraft systems, and navigation.
Step 2: Clear DGCA-Approved Medical Examinations (Class 2 & Class 1)
One of the most critical stages of becoming a pilot is proving your physical and mental fitness through a series of medical evaluations. These tests ensure that you are capable of handling the mental stress, quick decision-making, and physical challenges of piloting an aircraft.
Class 2 Medical Examination:
- This is the first medical check required before joining any flying school.
- Conducted by DGCA-authorised doctors listed on the DGCA website.
- Tests include:
- Eye examination (you can wear corrective lenses)
- Hearing test
- Blood pressure
- Blood sugar and cholesterol levels
- Chest X-ray and ECG
- A medical certificate will be issued after a successful evaluation.
Class 1 Medical Examination:
- Mandatory before applying for your Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- More comprehensive than Class 2.
- Conducted at DGCA-empanelled medical centres like Air Force Medical Boards or civil aviation hospitals.
- Includes detailed cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological assessments.
Tip: Complete your Class 1 medical early to avoid any surprises. If you don’t meet Class 1 standards, you won’t be eligible for a CPL.
Step 3: Choose a DGCA-approved flying School in India
Once you have your educational documents and medical clearance, the next step is selecting a DGCA-approved flying school that suits your goals and budget.
How to Choose the Right Flying School:
- Verify its DGCA approval status on the official DGCA website.
- Compare training aircraft (such as the Cessna 172 and DA-42) and facilities.
- Check the experience and certification of instructors.
- Consider the weather conditions and airspace (ideal conditions = more flying hours in less time).
- Understand the cost structure, including tuition fees, examination charges, and accommodation costs.
- Check the average CPL completion timeline (12–24 months).
List of Some Popular Flying Schools:
| Institute Name | Location |
| Top Crew Aviation | Jaipur & New Delhi |
| Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautic | Punjab |
| Madhya Pradesh Flying Club | Indore |
| Government Aviation Training Institute (GATI) | Bhubaneswar |
Step 4: Enrol in a Comprehensive Pilot Training Program
Pilot training includes two major components—Ground School (Theory) and Flight School (Practical Flying).
Ground School:
In-ground training, you’ll learn theoretical subjects essential to becoming a safe and competent pilot. These include:
- Air Regulations – Rules and laws of aviation
- Aviation Meteorology – Weather systems, clouds, wind, and flight planning
- Air Navigation – Map reading, compass use, distance, speed, and time calculations
- Technical General – Aircraft systems, engines, structures, instruments
- Technical Specific – Systems of the aircraft you are flying
- Radio Telephony (RT) – Communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC)
Flight Training:
This is the practical part of your training where you will:
- Learn to operate an aircraft in various flight conditions
- Perform take-offs, landings, and circuits
- Fly solo after initial training
- Conduct cross-country and night flights
- Practice emergency procedures
You must log a minimum of 200 flying hours, verified and signed by a certified instructor.
Step 5: Pass DGCA CPL Theory Examinations
After completing ground school, students must pass the theory exams conducted by the DGCA. These exams are challenging and cover the core aviation subjects taught in class.
Exams to Clear:
- Air Navigation
- Meteorology
- Air Regulations
- Technical General
- Technical Specific (related to aircraft type)
- Radio Telephony (WPC License)
These exams are held multiple times a year and require consistent preparation and study. Use study guides, mock tests, and DGCA past papers to strengthen your preparation.
Step 6: Accumulate 200+ Flying Hours
DGCA mandates that you must log a minimum of 200 flight hours to qualify for a CPL. These hours include:
- 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
- 20 hours of cross-country flying
- 10 hours instrument flying (cloud/fog/no visibility)
- 5 hours of night flying (navigation by lights)
Each hour must be recorded in your logbook and certified by your instructor or the school’s Chief Flying Instructor (CFI).
Step 7: Pass Skill Tests and Check Rides
After completing your flight training and passing theory exams, you must undergo a Skill Test or Check Ride conducted by a DGCA-approved examiner. This test evaluates your:
- Aircraft handling
- Decision-making skills
- Communication and navigation
- Reaction to emergencies
- Confidence and control
It’s similar to a driving test but for pilots—if you pass, your school forwards the documents to DGCA for CPL issuance.
Step 8: Apply for Your Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Once you have cleared all exams and met flying hour requirements, you can apply for your CPL.
CPL Requirements Recap:
- Age: Minimum 18 years
- 10+2 with Physics and Math
- Valid Class 1 Medical
- Passed DGCA written exams
- Logged 200+ flight hours
- Passed skill test
- Cleared Radio Telephony (RT) exam
The DGCA will review your documents and issue your Commercial Pilot License, which allows you to legally work as a pilot for an airline or other commercial flying organisations.
What is the Cost of Becoming a Pilot in India?
| Component | Estimated Cost (INR) |
| Class 2 + Class 1 Medical | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 |
| Ground School | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Flight Training (200 hrs) | ₹35 – ₹50 Lakhs |
| DGCA Exams & RT | ₹40 – ₹55 Lakhs |
| Total Cost | ₹40 – ₹55 Lakhs |
These costs vary depending on the institute, type of aircraft, training location, and exchange rates (if training abroad).
Career Paths After Getting a CPL
Once you have your CPL, you can explore several aviation careers:
- First Officer (Airline Co-Pilot) – Work for airlines like IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, or Vistara
- Charter Pilot – Fly private jets or medical evacuation flights
- Cargo Pilot – Operate cargo flights for logistics companies
- Flight Instructor – Train other student pilots
- Corporate Pilot – Fly for companies or VIP clients
- Agricultural Pilot – Specialised flying for crop dusting or surveying
With experience, you can upgrade to a Captain position, which comes with increased responsibilities and higher pay.
Final Words: Ready to Fly?
Becoming a pilot in India is a rewarding but challenging journey. It demands academic preparation, excellent health, thousands of hours of training, and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure. However, if aviation excites you and flying is your passion, then all the effort is worth it.
Start early, stay consistent, and never lose sight of your dream. The sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.
){kind=link}