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

Training Requirements for Pilots in India

In India, the training requirements for pilots are outlined in the Aircraft Rules 1937. The Civil Aviation Authority of India (CAAI) is responsible for ensuring that these requirements are met by all pilots. There are three main types of training that are required for pilots in India: basic training, advanced training, and instructor training. Basic training is the minimum requirement for all pilots and includes theoretical and practical instruction in the basic principles of flight. Advanced training is required for pilots who wish to fly larger aircraft and includes instruction in instrument flying, navigation, and air traffic control. Instructor training is required for those who wish to teach other pilots, and this includes instruction in flight instruction techniques and aircraft systems. All pilot training in India must be completed at an approved aviation training school. In addition to the training requirements, pilots in India must also hold a valid pilot license and pass a medical examination. All pilots must also comply with the safety regulations of the CAAI.

4.9 out of 5 based on 800+ Review

4.8/5

Workshop Registration

4000+ Pilots Trained

World-Class Instructors

Live Online / Classroom

20+Countries & Counting

Video News

Program Name

Class Type

Batch Start Date

Enroll Now

DGCA Ground Classes
Preparatory Classes

Online/Offline

19th June, 2025

Enroll Now

INDIGO CADET PROGRAM
Preparatory Classes

Online/Offline

21st June, 2025

Enroll Now

Overview - Training Requirements for Pilots in India

In India, becoming a pilot requires rigorous and comprehensive training. There are several different types of pilot qualifications and courses available, each of which must be completed in order to become a licensed pilot. This article provides an overview of the different training requirements for pilots in India, including the different types of courses and qualifications.

The first step in becoming a pilot in India is acquiring a Private Pilot License (PPL), which is the most basic type of pilot license. To obtain a PPL, one must complete a minimum of 40 hours of flight time and pass a series of written, oral, and practical examinations. This license allows the holder to fly only non-commercial aircraft.

The next step is to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), which is essential for anyone looking to work as a professional pilot. To obtain a CPL, one must complete a minimum of 200 hours of flight time and pass a series of written, oral, and practical examinations. This license allows the holder to fly commercial aircraft, such as those used by airlines.

In addition to the above licenses, pilots in India may choose to pursue further training in order to fly specific types of aircraft. Airline Pilots must complete an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) course, which requires a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight time and the completion of various theoretical exams. Aircraft Pilots, who fly larger and more complex aircraft, must complete a Multi-Engine Rating (MER) course, which requires a minimum of 100 hours of flight time and the completion of various practical and theoretical exams.

Finally, pilots in India may choose to further their training by completing specialized courses such as a Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) course or a Flight Dispatcher Rating (FDR) course. The former enables the holder to teach and evaluate student pilots, while the latter allows them to manage the operational and administrative aspects of a flight.

In summary, pilots in India must complete a series of courses and examinations in order to obtain the necessary qualifications for their chosen field. These include a Private Pilot License (PPL), a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) course, and a Multi-Engine Rating (MER) course. Pilots may also choose to pursue further training by completing specialized courses such as a Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) course or a Flight Dispatcher Rating (FDR) course.

Drop us a Query

Enroll now for Best Science Course

Full Name

Phone number

Course

We care about your data in our privacy policy.

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.

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

Complete Information - Training Requirements for Pilots in India: An overview of the different training requirements for pilots in India, including the different types of courses and qualifications.

The aviation industry has grown exponentially in the past few decades and it has become one of the most important industries in India. The demand for pilots has grown in the same proportion, and the Indian government has put in place stringent regulations for pilots, which are aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers and crew.

In India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is the regulatory body responsible for regulating the aviation industry. The DGCA has laid down strict training requirements for pilots in India, which must be fulfilled before they can become qualified to fly an aircraft. The training requirements for pilots in India are divided into two categories: Professional Pilots and Commercial Pilots.

Professional Pilots:

Professional Pilots in India must complete a minimum of 200 hours of flying experience, including a minimum of 100 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC). The training for professional pilots must be conducted by an approved Flying Training Organisation (FTO) and the pilot must possess a valid Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL). In addition, they must also possess a valid Instrument Rating (IR) and a valid Multi-Engine Rating (MER).

Commercial Pilots:

The training requirements for Commercial Pilots in India are slightly different from those of Professional Pilots. They must complete a minimum of 250 hours of flying experience, including a minimum of 100 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC). The training for Commercial Pilots must be conducted by an approved Flying Training Organisation (FTO). They must also possess a valid Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL), and a valid Instrument Rating (IR).

In addition to the above requirements, all pilots in India must pass a medical examination conducted by the DGCA before they can be issued a license. The medical examination is conducted to ensure that the pilot is physically and mentally fit to fly an aircraft.

Apart from the training and licensing requirements for pilots, there are also several other courses and qualifications that pilots in India must possess in order to become qualified to fly an aircraft. These include Basic Aviation Training (BAT), Multi-Crew Licensing (MCL), and Airline Transport Pilot Licensing (ATPL). These courses are aimed at providing pilots with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the aviation industry and the associated laws and regulations.

In India, there are many different Flying Training Organisations (FTOs) which offer pilot training courses. These FTOs are approved by the DGCA, and they provide courses which meet all the requirements of the DGCA.

Finally, it is important to note that being a pilot in India is not just a job, but also a lifestyle. Pilots must adhere to strict regulations and safety standards, and they must also be physically and mentally fit in order to fly an aircraft safely. Thus, the training requirements for pilots in India are designed to ensure that pilots are well-equipped to handle any situation when flying an aircraft.

Drop us a Query

Enroll now for Best Science Course

Full Name

Phone number

Course

We care about your data in our privacy policy.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Social Media

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.

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

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.

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.