How to Become a Pilot in India in 2025

Becoming a pilot in India is a dream for many young individuals who wish to touch the skies and command an aircraft. With the rapid growth of aviation in India, the demand for well-trained and certified pilots is rising. But how exactly does one become a pilot in India?

This blog provides a complete roadmap to help you understand the eligibility, courses, costs, exams, and licensing process to become a pilot in India—whether your goal is to fly for commercial airlines, charter services, or become an instructor.

🎯 Who Can Become a Pilot in India?

Before you get into the details, here are some basic eligibility criteria:

Minimum Age: 17 years (to start training), 18 years (to obtain CPL)
Education: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics (Non-Medical)
Medical Fitness: Must clear DGCA Class 2 and later Class 1 medical examination
Nationality: Indian citizens and OCI holders are eligible

🛫 Types of Pilot Licenses in India

License Type	Description
SPL (Student Pilot License)	Entry-level license for flight training; allows flying under supervision
PPL (Private Pilot License)	Allows flying non-commercial aircraft for personal use
CPL (Commercial Pilot License)	Enables flying commercial aircraft for airlines or charter services
ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot)	Required to become a Captain in an airline after gaining flying experience

🧭 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Pilot in India

Step 1: Ensure Eligibility

Complete your 10+2 with Physics and Math. If you don’t have these subjects, you can complete them via NIOS or other open schooling platforms.

Step 2: Get a Class 2 Medical Certificate

Before you begin training, apply for a DGCA Class 2 Medical. This includes:

Eye check-up (6/6 vision or corrected)
No color blindness
Hearing and physical fitness

Later, you’ll need a Class 1 Medical Certificate to apply for CPL.

Step 3: Apply for Computer Number (via eGCA)

A Computer Number is mandatory to appear for DGCA exams. You can apply via eGCA portal.

Step 4: Join a DGCA-Approved Flying School

Enroll in a reputable institute like FMS Aviation Academy that offers both:

Ground School Training for DGCA exams (Navigation, Meteorology, Technical, etc.)
Flying Training at an affiliated Flying Club in India or abroad

Step 5: Clear DGCA Ground Exams

Subjects for CPL exams include:

Air Navigation
Meteorology
Air Regulations
Technical General
Technical Specific
Radio Telephony (RTR-A exam)

You need to pass each paper individually to proceed.

Step 6: Complete Flying Hours (CPL)

To obtain a Commercial Pilot License, you must complete:

200 total flying hours, which includes:
- Dual Flying
- Solo Flying
- Cross-country flying
- Instrument and Night Flying

Flying hours can be completed in India or abroad at DGCA-approved training schools.

Step 7: Pass Skill Tests and Oral Exams

You’ll be assessed through check rides and viva voce by DGCA examiners.

Step 8: Apply for Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Once you complete the above, you can apply for the CPL via eGCA. Ensure all documents like logbooks, certificates, and medicals are in order.

🏷️ Cost of Becoming a Pilot in India

Component	Estimated Cost (₹ INR)
Ground School + DGCA Exams	₹ 1.5 – ₹ 2 Lakhs
Flying Training (200 Hours)	₹ 35 – ₹ 45 Lakhs
Medical & Exam Fees	₹ 50,000 – ₹ 1 Lakh
Total Estimated Cost	₹ 40 – ₹ 50 Lakhs

Pro Tip: You can reduce costs by doing ground classes with FMS Aviation Academy and choosing flying schools in India or South Africa based on budget and quality.

🧠 Skills Needed to Become a Pilot

Strong command over English (ICAO Level 4 or above)
Decision-making under pressure
Good physical and mental health
Strong understanding of mathematics and physics
Teamwork and communication

🎓 Best Institutions for Pilot Training in India

While India has many flying schools, it’s important to choose academies that offer transparent training hours, good instructor-student ratios, and assist with DGCA documentation and interview preparation.

At FMS Aviation Academy, we offer:

DGCA Ground Classes (Offline/Online)
One-on-one mentorship
Interview preparation for airlines
Exam-focused mock tests
Guidance for RTR-A and ATPL

🚀 Career Path After CPL

Once you obtain your CPL, here are your career options:

Pathway	Description
Airline First Officer	Join airlines as a trainee/co-pilot
Type Rating	Mandatory training to fly a specific aircraft
Charter Pilot	Fly corporate or charter aircraft
Flight Instructor	Train new student pilots
Cargo Pilot	Fly freight and cargo aircraft
ATPL (Captain Track)	After flying 1500 hours, apply for ATPL

🔁 Alternative Path: Cadet Pilot Programs

Some airlines like IndiGo, Air India, or SpiceJet offer Cadet Pilot Programs where training, licensing, and job placement are bundled. These are more expensive but offer job security.