PPL vs. CPL: Private Pilot License vs. Commercial Pilot License
If you are planning a career in aviation, understanding the difference between PPL vs CPL is one of the most important decisions you will make. While both licenses allow you to fly aircraft, they serve completely different purposes.
A Private Pilot License is primarily for recreational flying. A Commercial Pilot License is required if you want to earn money as a professional pilot under regulations governed by DGCA India and international standards set by ICAO.
Understanding Pilot Licensing in India
In India, pilot licenses are regulated by DGCA and follow ICAO-compliant safety standards. The two most commonly compared licenses are Private Pilot License (PPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
What is a Private Pilot License (PPL)?
- Fly single-engine aircraft
- Carry passengers
- Fly cross-country routes
- Build flying hours
PPL holders cannot earn salary or operate commercial flights.
Minimum flying hours required: 40–60 hours (DGCA standard).
Subjects include Air Regulations, Air Navigation, Aviation Meteorology and Aircraft Technical.
Preparation available through DGCA Ground Classes at Golden Epaulettes Aviation .
What is a Commercial Pilot License (CPL)?
- Airline First Officer
- Charter pilot
- Cargo operations
- Flight instructor
Minimum 200 flying hours required.
Additional requirements include:
- DGCA Class 1 Medical
- RTR (Aero) License
- Multi-engine rating
- Instrument rating
Structured CPL preparation pathways are offered by Golden Epaulettes Aviation .
PPL vs CPL Quick Comparison
| Parameter | PPL | CPL |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Recreational | Professional Career |
| Flying Hours | 40–60 | 200 |
| Salary | Not permitted | Allowed |
| Cost | ₹10–20 Lakhs | ₹45–90 Lakhs |
Salary Comparison
CPL holders working as First Officers in India typically earn ₹1.5–6 Lakhs per month initially. Senior Captains can earn ₹8–15 Lakhs per month depending on airline and experience.
Step-by-Step Path from PPL to CPL
- Complete additional flying hours up to 200
- Pass DGCA CPL examinations
- Obtain Class 1 medical
- Complete instrument rating
- Complete multi-engine training
- Clear RTR (Aero)
Who Should Choose PPL?
- Passion flying
- Private aircraft owners
- Recreational aviation
Who Should Choose CPL?
- Airline career goal
- Professional salary
- International flying ambitions
Frequently Asked Questions
1. PPL is for private flying; CPL is for commercial flying.
2. PPL cannot earn salary.
3. CPL requires minimum 200 flying hours.
4. Physics mandatory for CPL.
5. Upgrade from PPL to CPL is possible.
6. PPL is cheaper.
7. CPL offers airline career scope.
8. CPL requires Class 1 medical.
9. PPL cannot fly Airbus.
10. CPL holders can fly internationally with employment.
11. ICAO Level 4 English required.
12. CPL takes 18–24 months.
13. Type rating separate from CPL.
14. Women can become commercial pilots.
15. RTR (Aero) required for communication.
16. Salary after CPL ₹1.5–6 Lakhs/month initially.
17. Aviation demand rising in 2026.
18. Medical standards stricter for CPL.
19. Integrated and modular CPL both valid.
20. CPL globally respected under ICAO.
21. License conversion required for foreign employment.