Golden Epaulettes Aviation - A globally recognized, top-ranking institute for ground training in aviation.

What is the Difference Between an Airline Pilot and an Aircraft Pilot

They must have a valid commercial pilot license and an Airline Transport Pilot license. Aircraft pilots are typically required to have a private pilot license. Airline pilots are responsible for more passengers and cargo, and must follow more stringent rules and regulations. Aircraft pilots, on the other hand, are responsible for flying smaller aircraft, and therefore have more freedom with their flights. Additionally, airline pilots often have more responsibilities during their flights, such as communicating with air traffic control and monitoring the plane's systems, whereas aircraft pilots have less responsibility during their flights.
In conclusion, the main difference between an airline pilot and an aircraft pilot is the size and type of aircraft they are responsible for, as well as the level of experience and training required. Airline pilots typically have more responsibilities and must follow stricter rules and regulations, while aircraft pilots have more freedom and less responsibility during their flights.
ReviewReview
4.9 out of 5 based on 800+ Review
just-dial
4.8/5
Workshop Registration
Enroll Now
Enroll Now
Pilots Trained
4000+ Pilots Trained
World-Class Instructors
World-Class Instructors
Live Online / Classroom
Live Online / Classroom
Countries
20+Countries & Counting
#
Program Name
Class Type
Batch Start Date
Enroll Now
#1
DGCA Ground Classes
Preparatory Classes
Online/Offline
4th June, 2025
Enroll Now
#1
INDIGO CADET PROGRAM
Preparatory Classes
Online/Offline
2nd June, 2025
Enroll Now

Overview - What is the Difference Between an Airline Pilot and an Aircraft Pilot


The distinction between an airline pilot and an aircraft pilot is an important one in the aviation industry. Airline pilots are required to fly larger aircraft, such as passenger planes, while aircraft pilots fly smaller aircraft such as cargo planes. Airline pilots must have more experience and training than aircraft pilots.
Airline pilots are responsible for the safe transport of passengers and cargo from one destination to another. This requires a great deal of knowledge and skill as airline pilots must be aware of air traffic regulations, weather conditions, and aircraft systems. Airline pilots must also be able to quickly respond to any emergency situation that may arise. In order to be an airline pilot, one must obtain a commercial pilot’s license and pass a rigorous training program.
Aircraft pilots, on the other hand, are responsible for the transport of cargo only. Aircraft pilots fly smaller aircraft, such as cargo planes, which require less skill and experience than airline pilots. Aircraft pilots must be familiar with aircraft systems and air traffic regulations, but they do not need to be as experienced as airline pilots. Aircraft pilots must also obtain a commercial pilot’s license, but they are not required to go through the same rigorous training program as airline pilots.
Both airline pilots and aircraft pilots play an important role in the aviation industry. Airline pilots are responsible for the safe transport of passengers and cargo, while aircraft pilots are responsible for the transport of cargo only. In order to become an airline pilot, one must have more experience and training than an aircraft pilot. It is important to note that both airline pilots and aircraft pilots must obtain a commercial pilot’s license in order to be able to fly.
Drop us a Query
Enroll now for Best Science Course
course
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

One-on-One Counselling Sessions

Choosing to become a pilot is a life-changing decision—and you shouldn’t have to make it alone.
At Golden Epaulettes, we offer personalized one-on-one counseling sessions with experienced airline captains who’ve helped thousands of students make the right career move.
workshop

Book a 1-on-1 Pilot Career Counselling Session

Your Career Deserves Clarity, Not Confusion

Choosing to become a pilot is a life-changing decision—and you shouldn’t have to make it alone. At Golden Epaulettes, we offer personalized one-on-one counseling sessions with experienced airline captains who’ve helped thousands of students make the right career move.
  • Assessment of your academic background & eligibility
  • Custom roadmap for Cadet or CPL path based on your financials and timeline
  • Clarification on DGCA medicals, flying schools, exams, and type ratings
  • Honest advice about scholarships, loans, and affordability for middle-class families
  • Mindset coaching to overcome fear, doubt, or misinformation

Freebies for Aspiring Pilots

This comprehensive subject encompasses Air Law, Operational Procedures, Human Performance and Limitations, and Communications. Air Law covers international and national aviation laws, regulations, and licensing requirements.
Steps to becoma a Pilot
How to Clear Group Discussion
How to Clear Group Interview
DGCA Ground Class Brochure

Complete Information - What is the Difference Between an Airline Pilot and an Aircraft Pilot? Airline pilots are required to fly larger aircraft, such as passenger planes, whereas aircraft pilots fly smaller aircraft, such as cargo planes. Airline pilots are usually required to have more experience and training than aircraft pilots.

The main difference between an airline pilot and an aircraft pilot is the type and size of aircraft they fly. Airline pilots fly larger passenger planes, while aircraft pilots fly smaller cargo planes. The roles and responsibilities of each type of pilot also differ.
Airline pilots typically have more experience and training than aircraft pilots. Airline pilots must have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time, and they must also have a commercial pilot's license in addition to a private pilot's license. Aircraft pilots, on the other hand, must have at least a private pilot's license, with some companies requiring a commercial pilot's license.
In addition to the type and size of aircraft they fly, the roles of an airline pilot and an aircraft pilot also differ. Airline pilots are responsible for transporting passengers safely from one destination to another. They must be familiar with the routes, weather conditions, and airspace regulations of the region they are flying in. They must also be able to communicate effectively with air traffic control, as well as other aircraft in their vicinity.
Aircraft pilots, on the other hand, are responsible for transporting cargo from one location to another. They must be familiar with the route and airspace regulations, but they do not need to communicate with air traffic control. They must also be aware of any hazardous cargo they may be transporting, and make sure to follow all safety protocols when loading and unloading cargo.
Airline pilots are typically paid more than aircraft pilots, due to the additional experience and training they require. Airline pilots may also receive additional benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans. Aircraft pilots, on the other hand, are usually paid hourly, and may not receive additional benefits.
In conclusion, the main difference between an airline pilot and an aircraft pilot is the type and size of aircraft they fly. Airline pilots fly larger passenger planes, while aircraft pilots fly smaller cargo planes. Airline pilots are also required to have more experience and training than aircraft pilots.
Drop us a Query
Enroll now for Best Science Course
course
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Social Media

This comprehensive subject encompasses Air Law, Operational Procedures, Human Performance and Limitations, and Communications. Air Law covers international and national aviation laws, regulations, and licensing requirements. Operational Procedures include standard operating protocols

Best of support with us

Get Free Counselling from our Counsellor

Counselling
Computer Number Application & Board Verification Made Easy
Counselling
Personalized Study Plan & Career Roadmap (CPL & Cadet Program)
Counselling
Live Doubt Clearing + One-on-One Mentorship with Airline Captains

Join India’s Fastest-Growing Pilot Community – Learn Directly from Airline Captains!

Join the Golden Epaulettes Pilot Community—India’s fastest-growing network for aspiring aviators. This mentorship-driven platform connects you with experienced airline captains, including Capt. Deval Soni and Capt. Tomar Awdhesh. Whether you're just starting or preparing for your cadet pilot journey, this community is your gateway to expert guidance, peer connections, and real industry knowledge.
webinar

Join the GE Pilot Community

Stay Informed, Stay Ahead

Become part of the fastest-growing pilot mentorship group in India.The Golden Epaulettes Community is where aspiring pilots connect, learn, and grow—guided by experienced airline captains.
  • Get notified about exclusive webinars, career updates & DGCA changes
  • Connect with fellow aspirants, alumni, and mentors
  • Access curated study tips, updates, and aviation news
  • Engage with Experts and receive insights from Capt. Deval Soni & Capt. Tomar Awdhesh
  • Be Part of a Network of thousands of like-minded future aviators
  • Early Access to webinars, workshops.
Join the GE Community

Register for Webinar

Are you planning to pursue a career in aviation but unsure where to begin?Gain actionable insights from Capt. Deval Soni, an A320 Commander and mentor to over 3,500 aspiring pilots across India.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
live webinar

Books Preview

This comprehensive subject encompasses Air Law, Operational Procedures, Human Performance and Limitations, and Communications. Air Law covers international and national aviation laws, regulations, and licensing requirements. Operational Procedures include standard operating protocols and emergency procedures. Human Performance and Limitations examine the physiological and psychological aspects affecting pilot performance. Communications focus on standard aviation communication procedures and phraseology.
Mastering Airline Interview

Mastering Airline Interview

Mastering Airline Interview
Instrument Navigation

Instrument Navigation

Instrument Navigation
Meteorology

Meteorology

Meteorology
General Navigation

General Navigation

General Navigation
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images
images

Article, Blogs News, and Job Guide Information- Published By 4Achievers

https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Benefits of Attending the DGCA CPL Ground Classes :

This article will provide an overview of the benefits of attending the DGCA CPL Ground Classes. It will discuss the different skills that are important in becoming a successful pilot and the importance of the class.
This article will provide an overview of the benefits of attending the DGCA CPL Ground Classes. It will discuss the different skills that are important in becoming a successful pilot and the importance of the class.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
7 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Air Traffic Control :

Information on the air traffic control procedures, regulations, and requirements for CPL holders.
Information on the air traffic control procedures, regulations, and requirements for CPL holders.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
9 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Instructor Flight Training :

An overview of the different techniques used by instructors to teach commercial pilots the necessary skills for successful flight.
An overview of the different techniques used by instructors to teach commercial pilots the necessary skills for successful flight.
Rohit
13 Mar 2023
1 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Common Mistakes Made in Simulator Classes :

Learn about some of the most common mistakes made in simulator classes and how to avoid them.
Learn about some of the most common mistakes made in simulator classes and how to avoid them.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
8 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

What Commercial Pilots Need to Know About Air Regulations :

This article will discuss what commercial pilots need to know about Air Regulations, including regulations, safety rules, and best practices.
This article will discuss what commercial pilots need to know about Air Regulations, including regulations, safety rules, and best practices.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
10 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Aircraft Performance :

An overview of the different performance characteristics of commercial aircraft, including rate of climb, range, and more.
An overview of the different performance characteristics of commercial aircraft, including rate of climb, range, and more.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
10 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Prerequisites for Taking Simulator Classes :

Learn about the prerequisites for taking simulator classes in CPL and the different certifications required.
Learn about the prerequisites for taking simulator classes in CPL and the different certifications required.
Kevin
13 Mar 2023
4 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Aviation Weather Forecasting :

This article will provide an overview of the principles of aviation weather forecasting and how to use the information to make informed decisions.
This article will provide an overview of the principles of aviation weather forecasting and how to use the information to make informed decisions.
Kevin
13 Mar 2023
7 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Aviation Course Books for the DGCA CPL Ground Classes :

This article will discuss the best course books to use for the DGCA CPL Ground Classes. It will provide an overview of the different books available and how they can help you prepare for the class.
This article will discuss the best course books to use for the DGCA CPL Ground Classes. It will provide an overview of the different books available and how they can help you prepare for the class.
Rohit
13 Mar 2023
7 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Aircraft Systems and Maintenance :

An overview of the aircraft systems and maintenance requirements for CPL holders.
An overview of the aircraft systems and maintenance requirements for CPL holders.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
3 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

The Best Books for Airline Preparation- Mastering the Airline Pilot Interview :

A complete guide for aspiring airline pilots to clear interviews with confidence. Real insights, technical depth & mindset mastery by Capt. Awdhesh Singh Tomar. Mastering the Airline Pilot Interview by Capt. Awdhesh Singh Tomar is the ultimate book for aspiring pilots in India preparing for CPL, DGCA oral exams, airline HR interviews, and technical assessments. Learn mindset mastery, real interview questions, CRM, aviation decision-making, and how to stand out in Indigo, Air India, or international cadet pilot programs.
A complete guide for aspiring airline pilots to clear interviews with confidence. Real insights, technical depth & mindset mastery by Capt. Awdhesh Singh Tomar. Mastering the Airline Pilot Interview by Capt. Awdhesh Singh Tomar is the ultimate book for aspiring pilots in India preparing for CPL, DGCA oral exams, airline HR interviews, and technical assessments. Learn mindset mastery, real interview questions, CRM, aviation decision-making, and how to stand out in Indigo, Air India, or international cadet pilot programs.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
8 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

The Benefits of Taking an Aviation Meteorology Course :

This article will discuss the benefits of taking an aviation meteorology course, such as providing a better understanding of the weather and air safety, and the importance of making informed decisions.
This article will discuss the benefits of taking an aviation meteorology course, such as providing a better understanding of the weather and air safety, and the importance of making informed decisions.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
3 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

The Role of Aviation Meteorologists :

This article will explore the role of an aviation meteorologist, including the types of research they conduct and the services they provide.
This article will explore the role of an aviation meteorologist, including the types of research they conduct and the services they provide.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
3 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Review of Air Navigation Course :

A comprehensive review of the air navigation course in the Commercial Pilot License.
A comprehensive review of the air navigation course in the Commercial Pilot License.
Rohit
13 Mar 2023
8 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

What are the Benefits of Taking an Air Regulations Course in CPL :

This article will discuss the benefits of taking an Air Regulations course in CPL, including the knowledge gained, the improved safety record, and the improved career opportunities.
This article will discuss the benefits of taking an Air Regulations course in CPL, including the knowledge gained, the improved safety record, and the improved career opportunities.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
9 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Human Factors in Aviation :

An overview of the human factors that must be taken into account when operating an aircraft.
An overview of the human factors that must be taken into account when operating an aircraft.
Rohit
13 Mar 2023
2 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Understanding Aircraft Pilots and the DGCA CPL Ground Classes :

This article will provide an overview of the different types of aircraft pilots and their responsibilities. It will discuss the requirements to become an aircraft pilot and the importance of the DGCA CPL Ground Classes.
This article will provide an overview of the different types of aircraft pilots and their responsibilities. It will discuss the requirements to become an aircraft pilot and the importance of the DGCA CPL Ground Classes.
Rohit
13 Mar 2023
3 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Aviation Meteorology Course Learning Resources :

This article will provide an overview of the learning resources available for aviation meteorology courses, including online courses, books, and more.
This article will provide an overview of the learning resources available for aviation meteorology courses, including online courses, books, and more.
Meghna Thomas
13 Mar 2023
4 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Aircraft Maintenance :

An overview of the maintenance practices used to keep aircraft in optimal condition.
An overview of the maintenance practices used to keep aircraft in optimal condition.
Kuldeep
13 Mar 2023
3 min read
https://goldenepaulettes.com/NULL
Commercial Pilot Licence

Human Factors :

An introduction to the psychological and physiological aspects of flight, including fatigue, stress, and more.
An introduction to the psychological and physiological aspects of flight, including fatigue, stress, and more.
Kevin
13 Mar 2023
2 min read

Student Placement

Airports are the essential arteries of travel and trade in USA, serving as vital gateways to the world. Our website showcase the top 3 airports in this region, highlighting their pivotal role in connecting people and businesses globally. These airports not only offer convenience for travelers but also power economic growth by facilitating trade and tourism.
email

Email

Our friendly team is here to help.
fly@goldenepaulettes.com
phone

Phone

Mon-Fri from 8am to 5pm.
+91-742-889-7782
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
icons Talk to Career Counsellor