How to become a Pilot?
Discover the essential steps to becoming a commercial pilot and soaring toward a rewarding aviation career. From training requirements to licensing, here’s everything you need to know to start flying professionally.
Minimum Requirements to Start Your
Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Training
English Language Proficiency
A strong command of English is essential. You should be able to read, write, and understand English fluently, as it’s the primary language used in aviation worldwide.
Age
Requirement
You can begin your CPL training at the age of 17, but the official license will only be issued once you turn 18. This enables you to complete your training and organize all necessary documents in time for licensing.
Educational Qualifications
A high school diploma with Physics and Mathematics (10+2 or equivalent) is required. Commerce or Arts students can qualify by completing Physics and Math through recognized institutions like NIOS.
Medical Fitness for Pilot Training
Before you commit to pilot training, it’s essential to confirm that you meet the medical fitness standards required to fly. The process involves two key stages:
Class 2 Medicals
This initial medical assessment is conducted across India by DGCA-appointed doctors. Upon completion, you’ll receive a CA-35 assessment form as a preliminary fitness certification. Your reports are then forwarded to the DGCA, which issues your official medical assessment.
Class 1 Medicals
After passing Class 2 medicals, you can request a Class 1 medical assessment, available in select cities: Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, Chennai, and Jorhat. This assessment is mandatory to proceed with CPL training.
File Number
Once you complete your Class 2 assessment, you’ll be assigned a unique, permanent file number. This file number serves as a reference for all your documentation with the DGCA.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Program
The CPL program is designed to equip you with both the theoretical and practical skills essential for a successful career in aviation. Training is divided into two core components:
Theoretical Knowledge
This portion covers the foundational knowledge of aviation, including navigation, meteorology, aircraft systems, and aviation regulations. Mastery of these subjects is crucial for making informed decisions in the cockpit
Practical Knowledge
Hands-on flight training brings your theoretical knowledge to life. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll log required flight hours, practice maneuvers, and build the skills needed to handle real-life situations
Discover the essential steps to becoming a commercial pilot and soaring toward a rewarding aviation career. From training requirements to licensing, here’s everything you need to know to start flying professionally.
Each step of the program is crafted to ensure you’re fully prepared to earn your CPL and excel as a commercial pilot.
Theory Papers for CPL
1. Obtain a Computer Number
To sit for the CPL theory exams, you first need a computer number, which can be acquired by following the application process on https://pariksha.dgca.gov.in Submit the online application along with the required attested documents to the DGCA within 10 days. Once your documents are received, DGCA will confirm receipt via email.
2. Theory Exam Structure
The theory exams, conducted four times a year, primarily consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). With thorough preparation, you’ll be equipped to select the correct answers. The specific exams required depend on whether your flight school is located in India or abroad.
| Flight Training In India | Flight Training Abroad | |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth Countries New Zealand, Canada etc |
Non-Commonwealth Countries USA |
|
|
|
|
| RTR - Radio telephony restricted (Aeronautical) | ||
Flight Training: The Path to
Taking Flight
This is where your journey truly takes off! Your next step is to sit in the cockpit and begin your flying lessons. Selecting the right flight school is crucial, as the skills you acquire will shape your career as a pilot. While a pilot’s license may open doors, it’s the quality of your training that sets you apart for competitive airline positions.
Key Factors in Choosing a Flight School:
DGCA-Approved Schools with International Standards
Ensure your school provides high-quality training aligned with DGCA standards, giving you exposure on par with international aviation practices.Instrument Flight Training
Look for a program offering robust instrument flight training, essential for navigating complex airspaces.Communication in Busy Airspaces
Training in busy international airspaces can hone your communication skills, a valuable asset in global aviation.Controlled and Uncontrolled Airspace Experience
A balanced experience in both controlled and uncontrolled airspaces builds confidence and adaptability.
Choosing a flight school abroad can also offer the benefit of a dual pilot license, which may broaden career prospects.
For more details on minimum flight training requirements set by the DGCA, refer to www.dgca.gov.in.
DGCA Requirements
100 Hours Pilot in Command
(PIC)
Experience as the primary pilot responsible for the aircraft.
250 Nautical Miles (NM) Cross-Country
Demonstrate long-distance navigation skills and flight planning.
40 Hours Instrument Flight
Includes a minimum of 20 hours in-flight; the remaining 20 may be on a simulator to develop proficiency in low-visibility conditions.
50 Hours
Solo Cross-Country
Build confidence and independence in solo navigation over varying distances.
120 Nautical Miles (NM) Cross-Country
Showcase intermediate navigation capabilities under supervision.
10 Hours Multi-Engine
Training
Gain experience in multi-engine aircraft handling and procedures.
300 Nautical Miles (NM) Cross-Country
A critical check to prove advanced cross-country navigation and planning skills.
10 Night Take-Offs and Landings
Develop essential night flying skills, focusing on take-off and landing proficiency
Final Steps to Obtain Your CPL
Once you’ve cleared all required theory exams and completed your flight training, the final stage involves proving your flying skills to a DGCA-appointed examiner. This assessment, known as a flying skill check, is where you’ll demonstrate the proficiency and expertise you’ve developed throughout your training.
Here’s a streamlined process for CPL flight training in both India and abroad:
Flight Training In India
- Pass All Theory Papers
Clear all the required theory exams . - Complete Flight Training
Fulfill the regulatory flight training requirements, including required flight hours and checks. - Flying Skill Checks
Demonstrate your flying skills with a DGCA-appointed examiner in India. - License Issuance
Submit all documentation to the DGCA for CPL issuance.
Flight Training Abroad
- Pass All Theory Papers
Clear all the required theory exams. - Obtain CPL Abroad
Complete flight training and receive your CPL from an approved international flight school. - Return to India
Upon returning, complete flying skill checks with a DGCA-appointed examiner. - License Issuance
Submit all required documentation to the DGCA to receive your CPL valid in India.
After successfully completing your skill checks with a DGCA examiner, gather your required documents along with your flying logbook and submit them to the DGCA for your Commercial Pilot License issuance.
Have Questions?
We’re here to help! Contact us for a free consultation to guide you on your journey to becoming a pilot. Whether it’s understanding the requirements or choosing the right flight school, our team is ready to assist.
Essential Steps to Launch Your Pilot Career
1. 10th and 12th Board Verification Certificate
- Required to verify that your marks are authentic.
- Each board’s process varies. For CBSE, the certificate is available online.
- Visit your board’s website for instructions.
2. Class II Medicals
- The preliminary medical check required before applying for a Class I medical.
- Conducted by DGCA-empanelled doctors; includes color vision, BMI, and general health checks.
- Book appointments via DGCA’s website.
3. Class I Medical
- Mandatory for CPL issuance.
- Only available after successful Class II medical verification and PMR number issuance.
- Conducted at Air Force centers or approved private hospitals listed on the DGCA website.
4. Police Verification Certificate (PVC)
- Certifies that you have no criminal records and are of good moral character.
- Required at multiple stages, including visa application (if training abroad).
- Check your state’s portal for application details.
5. Computer Number
- A unique identification required for CPL applications.
- Apply early as processing can take 1-2 months, along with a board verification certificate.
6. Ground Classes
- Required to cover essential CPL subjects such as Air Regulations, Aviation Meteorology, and Radio Telephony.
- Passing these exams and accumulating 200 flight hours are prerequisites for CPL issuance.
7. Visa Medicals (If Training Abroad)
- Specific to each country’s requirements, separate from DGCA medicals.
- Check visa-related medical requirements on the country’s consulate website.
8. Visa Application (If Training Abroad)
- Apply for a student visa after completing visa medicals.
- Requirements may vary based on the training country.
9. Student Pilot License (SPL)
- The initial license for beginners, required before PPL and CPL.
- Includes an oral exam covering Air Regulation, Navigation, and Meteorology.
- Issued by the flying academy if you’re at least 16 years old and have completed 10th grade.
10. Flight Radio Telephony Operator's License (FRTOL)
- Required to operate radio equipment on Indian-registered aircraft.
- Non-restricted FRTOL is mandatory for CPL; obtained by passing the RTR exam.
11. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
- Combines theoretical and practical training with 200 flight hours.
- Pass the required DGCA subjects to qualify for the CPL.
12. License Conversion Checks (For Training Abroad)
- For pilots trained in foreign ICAO states, additional requirements are needed to convert to a DGCA CPL.
- Includes a valid foreign license, medical assessment, verified logbook, and skill tests.
- Additional cross-country and instrument flight requirements apply.
13. License Conversion Submission
- Submit your License Conversion Application and documents to DGCA.
- The process is also available online. Once approved, DGCA issues your CPL within a month.
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