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IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme: A Complete Guide

Thinking of becoming a professional pilot? The IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme is one of India’s most reliable and structured pathways to enter the cockpit with industry-ready skills. 

Join a Cadet Pilot Program in India or abroad through IndiGo’s network of leading global training partners. Each offers a clear route from ground school to Airbus A320 type rating.

This guide explores eligibility, programme structure, training partners, costs, and the exact steps to apply.

Take your first step towards becoming an IndiGo pilot with our Airline Entrance Exam Course designed for Cadet Pilot Programme Entrances.

IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme

What is the Indigo Cadet Pilot Programme?

Cadet Pilot Programmes are a structured ab-initio pathway that takes aspiring pilots from zero flight time to a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), with direct induction pathways to the airline as Junior First Officers.

IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme enables candidates to train for a CPL and receive A320 type rating. They then transition into Junior First Officer (JFO) roles with the airline. Program structure and partner selection vary by training partner.

Eligibility & Entry Requirements for IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme

IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme in India have an extensive eligibility criteria.

  • Nationality: Applicants must be Indian nationals or OCIs and hold a valid passport.
  • Minimum Age: 18 years; upper limit varies (commonly 32-35 years). 
  • Education requirement: 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Mathematics and English with minimum score of 51% / Grade Point 6 / Grade C1 in each subject.
  • Medical: Must obtain DGCA Class 2 medical before applying and DGCA Class 1 medical certificate before LOI signing. Visible tattoos or piercings may disqualify.

Check out their eligibility criteria here.

How to Apply & Selection Process for IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme

IndiGo and it’s partners have a multi-stage rigorous selection process:

  • Step 1: Online application

  • Step 2: Psychometric/adapt tests (ADAPT/CASS)

  • Step 3: Group exercise

  • Step 4: Personal interview

  • Step 5: Letter of Intent (LOI) signing

Preparing for IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program? FMS provides Airline Entrance Exam Preparation in just 2-4 months! Consolidate your learning and secure your seat with FMS Academy’s extensive Cadet Pilot Programme Entrance Course. It includes:

  1. Written Test Preparation
  2. Psychometric & Aptitude Test Prep
  3. Simulator Training
  4. Interview and Soft Skills Training

Read our Complete Guide on Cadet Pilot Programmes in India to learn more.

What Are the Different IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programmes?

IndiGo has partnered with multiple flying schools and operators to provide Cadet Pilot Programs in India and abroad.

1. Marigold Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 21 months
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: 15 months ground school + DGCA & CPL-MEIR at Marigold
    • Phase 2: 4 months foreign license conversion
    • Phase 3: 2 months Airbus A320 type rating
  • Location: Korat (Thailand) and Gondia (India)
  • Fees: INR 1,17,01,602
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: ADAPT test
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

2. CAE Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 18-20 months
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: 6 months ground school + 10 months DGCA CPL Flight Training
    • Phase 2: 2 months Jet Induction Training + Airbus A320 type rating
  • Location: Gondia (India), Bengaluru (India), New Delhi (India), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Bangkok (Thailand)
  • Fees: INR 97,26,800
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: ADAPT test
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

3. CAA- IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 20 months
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: Ground Training
    • Phase 2: Flight Training (CPL- SE/IR)
    • Phase 3: Type Rating for Airbus A320
  • Location: Gurugram, Dhana, Neemuch (India), 
  • Fees: INR 94,10,000
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: ADAPT test
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

4. Skyborne Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 12 months flight training
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: Ground Training
    • Phase 2: Flight Training
    • Phase 3: Flight License Conversion and A320 Type Rating
  • Location: Florida (USA)
  • Fees: INR 1,24,11,070
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: Aptitude tests
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

Skyborne Cadet Pilot Program provides for dual FAA and CPL licenses.

Note: It is mandatory to complete DGCA CPL theory exams Air Regulations, Meteorology, Navigation, Technical Specific Paper (C172R) and Radio Telephony (RTR) exam, before you commence your flight training under Skyborne Cadet Pilot Program.

5. Insight Aviation Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 21 months
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: 4 months Ground School
    • Phase 2: 11 months Flying Training
    • Phase 3: 4 months License Conversion
    • Phase 4: 2 months A320 Type Rating
  • Location: India and South Africa
  • Fees: INR 1,13,01,918
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: Insight Aviation Assessment
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

6. FTA IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 46 weeks flight training
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: DGCA Ground Theory
    • Phase 2: Flight Training
    • Phase 3: DGCA License Conversion
    • Phase 4: A320 Type Rating
  • Location: Adelaide or Toowoomba (Australia) and India
  • Fees: INR 1,32,13,338
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: ADAPT test
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

7. Garuda Aviation IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 21 months
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: DGCA Ground Theory
    • Phase 2: Flight Training
    • Phase 3:DGCA License Conversion
    • Phase 4: A320 Type Rating
  • Location: South Africa and Dwarka (India)
  • Fees: INR 1,16,13,058
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: Garuda Assessment
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

8. NZICPA IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 21 months
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: DGCA Ground Theory
    • Phase 2: Flight Training
    • Phase 3: DGCA License Conversion
    • Phase 4: A320 Type Rating
  • Location: New Zealand and Gurugram (India)
  • Fees: No information
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: ADAPT test
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

9. Acron Aviation IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program

  • Duration: 22 months
  • Phases: 
    • Phase 1: 3 months DGCA Ground Theory, India
    • Phase 2: 16 months Flight Training, Florida
    • Phase 3: DGCA License Conversion, India
    • Phase 4: A320 Type Rating, USA or Thailand
  • Location: Florida (USA) and India
  • Fees: No information
  • Assessment Tests: 
    • Stage 1: ADAPT test
    • Stage 2: Group activity
    • Stage 3: Personal interview

You will obtain dual FAA and CPL licenses.

What Is the Cost of IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme in India?

The fees for IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme in India ranges from ~ INR 94,00,000 to ~ INR 1,32,00,000.

  • Exact costs depend on training partner and location. 

  • Some providers mention bank financing and support for cadets.

As this is a major investment for a flying career, aspiring pilots should evaluate training quality, licence validity, and job alignment.

Career Pathway & Licence Outcome

  • Successful cadets may join as Junior First Officer with IndiGo on the Airbus A320 fleet. 

  • The programme covers conversion to DGCA-licenced CPL and A320 type rating, preparing for airline pilot roles.

Why Choose the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme?

  • Direct pathway: training linked to airline career on IndiGo’s A320 fleet.
  • Top-tier training partners with global infrastructure and DGCA/FAA approved modules.
  • Structured training means you focus on your pilot licence and transition to flying rather than navigating separate steps.

Click here to compare top Cadet Pilot Programmes in India .

Why Choose FMS Aviation Academy?

FMS Aviation Academy ensures your path to becoming a pilot. With 4 centres across India, we offer: 

  • Proven Results: 300+ students trained successfully across India.

  • AI-Powered Learning: India’s first smart platform for DGCA ground classes.

  • Expert Mentorship: Learn directly from a Senior Airline Captain.

  • Concept-Based Training: Build real understanding, not rote knowledge.

  • Transparent Guidance: No fake approvals or inflated success claims.

  • Career-Oriented Coaching: From DGCA prep or Cadet Programme entrance to airline readiness.

  • Lifetime Mentorship: Continuous support through flight training and interviews.

Conclusion

The IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme offers a clear and structured route for those aiming for a career as an airline pilot. With global training partners, well-defined training phases, and a potential job pathway, it stands out for aspiring pilots focused on pilot training, pilot licencing and certification, and airline employment.

If you meet the eligibility and are ready for the investment, this programme could be the launchpad for your aviation career.

Contact FMS to enrol in Airline Entrance Preparatory Course today!

FAQs on IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme

Author

Picture of Capt. Manjeet Singh

Capt. Manjeet Singh

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