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How to Become a Co-Pilot in India – Eligibility, Courses, License & Salary Details

Want to know how to become a co-pilot in India? 

FMS Aviation Academy brings out a complete guide.

Becoming a co-pilot in India is the first step toward a successful airline pilot career. With rapid airline expansion, demand for trained co-pilots is rising across India.

This guide explains eligibility, pilot courses, licences, salary, and career roadmap.

How to Become a Co-Pilot in India
How to Become a Co-Pilot in India

Who Is a Co-Pilot in India?

A co-pilot, also called a First Officer, assists the aircraft Captain during flights.
Co-pilots handle navigation, communication, and operational procedures in the cockpit.
Airlines require co-pilots to hold a valid Commercial Pilot Licence.

Eligibility to Become a Co-Pilot in India

To become a co-pilot in India, DGCA eligibility criteria must be fulfilled.

Educational Qualification

Candidates must pass 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics from a recognised board.
Open schooling is accepted if DGCA norms are met.

Age Limit

The minimum age to hold a Commercial Pilot Licence is 18 years.
There is no maximum age limit for starting pilot training.

Medical Fitness

A DGCA Class 1 medical certificate is mandatory for airline co-pilots.
Medical fitness ensures pilots meet aviation safety standards.

Courses Required to Become a Co-Pilot in India

Professional pilot training is mandatory for airline co-pilot jobs.

DGCA Ground Classes

Ground classes cover Air Navigation, Meteorology, Regulations, and Technical subjects.
Strong DGCA theory preparation improves airline readiness.

👉 Read more: DGCA Ground Classes Explained

Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

CPL training includes a minimum of 200 flying hours as per DGCA rules.
The CPL allows pilots to fly commercially as airline co-pilots.

Pilot Licence Required for Co-Pilot Jobs

A DGCA-issued Commercial Pilot Licence is mandatory for airline employment.
Pilots trained abroad must convert their licence to DGCA standards.
Type rating is required for specific aircraft like A320 or B737.

👉 Read more: Types of Pilot Licences in India

Salary of a Co-Pilot in India

Co-pilot salary in India depends on airline, aircraft type, and experience.
Fresh co-pilots earn between ₹2.5 to ₹5 lakh per month.
Salary increases significantly after command upgrade and experience.

👉 Read: Complete Breakdown on Pilot Salary in India

Career Growth After Becoming a Co-Pilot

Co-pilots progress to Captain roles after required flying hours and assessments.
Career paths include domestic airlines, international carriers, and cargo aviation.
India’s aviation growth ensures long-term career stability for pilots.

Common Challenges Aspiring Co-Pilots Face

  • High training costs and DGCA exams challenge many pilot aspirants.
  • Lack of structured guidance often delays airline readiness.
  • Choosing the right academy reduces career and financial risks.

Courses at FMS Aviation Academy

  1. DGCA Ground Classes: Comprehensive training for all 6 DGCA subjects.

  3. Pre-Type Rating Course: Upgrade your skills before your Type Rating.

    • Advanced Aircraft Systems & SOP Training

    • Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) & CRM

    • Glass Cockpit Orientation & Jet Handling

    • Simulator Practice & Assessment Prep

  4. Post-Type Rating Course: Bridge the gap between training and airline readiness.

    • Aircraft Systems & Technical Refresher

    • SOPs & Airline Procedures

    • Real-World Scenario Training

    • Performance Under Pressure: Entrance Preparation

    • Wide-Body Aircraft Insights

  5. Airline Entrance Preparation Course: Ace every stage of airline selection.

    • Written Test Preparation

    • Psychometric & Aptitude Test Prep

    • Simulator Training

    • Interview & Soft Skills Training

  6. Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) Course: DGCA-mandated subjects covered.

    • Air Navigation

    • Radio Aids & Instruments

    • Meteorology

    • Bonus: Flying logbook preparation (DGCA format), eGCA application guidance & Viva eligibility support

Why Join FMS Aviation Academy?

  • 4 Ground School Locations: Ahmedabad, Surat, Delhi & Upcoming in Dehradun

  • AI-Powered Learning Platform: India’s first smart DGCA preparation system

  • Expert Instruction: Learn directly from a Senior Airline Captain

  • One-on-One Counselling & Mentorship at every stage

  • Career-Focused Training: From DGCA exams to cadet programmes & airline selection

  • Trusted Track Record: 300+ students trained successfully across India

  • 5+ Partner Flying Schools for seamless flight training pathways

  • 10+ Years of Aviation Training Experience

  • Concept-Based Learning: Real understanding over rote memorization

  • Transparent Guidance: No misleading approvals or inflated claims

📞 Contact FMS Aviation Academy today.

FAQs: How to Become a Co-Pilot in India

Author

Picture of Capt. Manjeet Singh

Capt. Manjeet Singh

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