Why Not To Become a Pilot - The Harsh Truth No One Tells You (The Cons)
“Flying is like smoking. You know the risks… but the addiction is real.”
After 20 years in this industry, let me say it bluntly – Flying, just like smoking, can be injurious to health.
But people still choose it – not because it’s easy, but because it’s addictive.
Yes, it’s a dream job. Yes, the uniform feels powerful. But if you’re only seeing the Instagram version of this profession, you’re not ready for the cockpit yet.
Let’s talk about the other side – the cons.
💸 1. The Cost is Sky High
Becoming a pilot is expensive.
Training costs can range from ₹40 to ₹60 lakh. And that’s just the training. Add living expenses, exam fees, and type ratings later – and it becomes a financial mountain.
⏳ 2. No Job Guarantee
Even after spending all that money, there’s no promise of a job.
In India, job opportunities depend a lot on luck – being at the right place at the right time.
🏚️ 3. Poor Flight Training Infrastructure
India lacks good, consistent infrastructure in flying schools.
Bad weather, aircraft maintenance issues, and shortage of instructors often delay training by months.
This not only wastes your time – it risks your safety.
🥵 4. Once You’re In – The Fatigue Starts
When you finally land a job, the glamour fades quickly.
- You’re flying multiple nights and early mornings.
- You deal with constant jet lag.
- The circadian rhythm goes for a toss.
- You stay tired, cranky, and restless if you don’t manage your schedule well.
👨👩👧 5. Missing Out on Life
Birthdays? Anniversaries? Festivals?
You’ll often be at 35,000 feet, while your loved ones are celebrating back home. Being away from family is a silent cost of being a pilot – and it takes a toll after a while.
🌩️ 6. Stress from All Directions
Weather patterns have become unpredictable.
Climate change means more turbulence, thunderstorms, and risk.
Add to that ATC delays, technical snags, passenger behavior, and your own fatigue – it’s not just flying; it’s mental war.
🍱 7. In-Flight Food & Health
Airline food? Usually made a day before, stored and reheated.
That means:
- Low nutrition
- High preservatives
Gut issues like bloating, acidity, and long-term health problems.
🧠 8. Fitness Goes Down
Most pilots are tired and drained after long duty hours.
Workouts get skipped.
You’re stuck eating at odd hours.
You’re dehydrated in a pressurized cabin.
Eventually, you gain weight, get out of shape, and feel sluggish.
🚫 9. Mental Health Takes a Hit
The stress is real.
The sleep is broken.
The routine is unstable.
And if you don’t actively take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally – this job can eat you alive.
Final Word
Just like that “Smoking is injurious to health” warning – Flying comes with its own label. It looks fancy. But if you don’t know what you’re getting into, it’ll burn you out. Choose flying only if you’re ready to handle the pain behind the passion.
FAQs About Pilot Salary in India
It depends. While pilot training can cost ₹45–70 lakhs, the return on investment takes years, and job placement isn’t guaranteed immediately after training. If you’re not 100% committed, the cost can outweigh the benefits.
Not really. Pilots often work irregular hours, including weekends, nights, and holidays. Long layovers and time zone changes can make maintaining relationships and a normal routine difficult.
Yes. Pilots must maintain strict medical standards. Any issues with vision, hearing, heart, or mental health can lead to disqualification or temporary grounding.
Pilots face high stress, irregular sleep, and performance pressure. Despite awareness, mental health stigma in aviation still exists, making it hard for pilots to openly seek help.
No. The industry is highly sensitive to global events like pandemics, fuel prices, and political instability. Layoffs and hiring freezes are common during downturns.
No, Safety Always Comes First. In emergency situations or turbulent weathers, it’s pilot skills which keep travelers safe.
Career growth is slow and usually based on seniority rather than merit. It can take years to move from First Officer to Captain, especially in large airlines with limited turnover.
Yes. Pilots may face issues like deep vein thrombosis, exposure to cosmic radiation, disrupted sleep cycles, and hearing damage from constant engine noise.
Not really. Most of the job involves strict schedules, operational stress, and limited layover times. It’s not always the luxurious, globe-trotting lifestyle people imagine.
Yes – if you’ve done your research, are financially prepared, and accept the challenges that come with the profession. Passion is important, but so is practicality.
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