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

What are the Different Types of Pilots in India

In India, there are four main types of pilots: commercial, military, general aviation and cargo pilots. Commercial pilots fly aircrafts for commercial air carriers and hold a valid commercial pilot license issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Military pilots are those who are commissioned officers of the Indian Air Force and fly military aircrafts. General aviation pilots are private pilots who fly for their own pleasure and business purposes, while cargo pilots fly cargo aircrafts to transport cargo and goods. However, all pilots in India must obtain a Pilot License from the DGCA, which can be obtained after undergoing rigorous training and passing the required exams. In addition, there are also Airline Transport Pilot Licenses (ATPL) which are required for pilots flying larger, more complex aircrafts. All of these types of pilots are required to comply with the strict safety regulations set by the DGCA.

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

Program Name

Class Type

Batch Start Date

Enroll Now

DGCA Ground Classes
Preparatory Classes

Online/Offline

4th June, 2025

Enroll Now

INDIGO CADET PROGRAM
Preparatory Classes

Online/Offline

2nd June, 2025

Enroll Now

Overview - What are the Different Types of Pilots in India

Piloting an aircraft is no easy feat and in India, there are different types of pilots that fly different kinds of aircraft, from commercial airlines to military operations. Each type of pilot has its own unique set of skills and training that are required to fly and maintain the aircraft safely. This article will discuss the different types of pilots in India, such as commercial, military, and more.

Commercial Pilots

Commercial pilots in India fly for commercial airlines, transporting passengers and cargo from one place to another. To become a commercial pilot in India, one must obtain a commercial pilot’s license from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. This requires passing a written exam, an oral exam and a flight test. Commercial pilots also need to have at least 250 hours of flight experience under their belt.

Airline Pilots

Airline pilots are responsible for flying aircraft for commercial airlines, transporting passengers and cargo from one place to another. To become an airline pilot in India, one must obtain an airline transport pilot license (ATPL). This requires passing written, oral and flight tests along with 1,500 hours of flight time. Other requirements include passing a medical examination and attending a ground school.

Military Pilots

Military pilots fly aircraft for the Indian armed forces. They are responsible for transporting personnel, cargo, and providing air support during combat operations. To become a military pilot in India, one must attend the Indian Air Force Academy and complete a four-year training program. Upon completion of the training program, military pilots are awarded a commission and must attend a specialized training course based on the type of aircraft they will be flying.

Aircraft Pilots

Aircraft pilots fly non-commercial aircraft, such as private jets and helicopters. To become an aircraft pilot in India, one must obtain a private pilot license. This requires passing a written exam, an oral exam and a flight test. Aircraft pilots also need to have at least 200 hours of flight experience under their belt.

Helicopter Pilots

Helicopter pilots fly helicopters for a variety of purposes, such as medical evacuation, search and rescue, and law enforcement. To become a helicopter pilot in India, one must obtain a helicopter pilot license. This requires passing a written exam, an oral exam and a flight test. Helicopter pilots also need to have at least 200 hours of flight experience under their belt.

Soaring Pilots

Soaring pilots fly gliders and sailplanes. To become a soaring pilot in India, one must obtain a soaring pilot license. This requires passing a written exam, an oral exam and a flight test. Soaring pilots also need to have at least 200 hours of flight experience under their belt.

In conclusion, there are many different types of pilots in India, each one requiring specialized training and experience in order to fly safely. Whether you’re interested in becoming a commercial pilot, an airline pilot, a military pilot, an aircraft pilot, a helicopter pilot, or a soaring pilot, you’ll need to make sure you have the necessary qualifications and experience to do so.

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 - What are the Different Types of Pilots in India? - This article will discuss the different types of pilots in India, such as commercial, military, and more.

Pilots in India are considered as some of the most experienced and talented professionals in the aviation industry. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of passengers and crew on board aircrafts, as well as providing an enjoyable experience for all those who are flying or working within the industry. Pilots in India can be divided into several categories, with each having their own unique set of responsibilities and requirements.

Commercial Pilots:

Commercial pilots are the most common type of pilots in India. They are responsible for the operation of commercial aircrafts which are used for transportation of passengers and cargo. To become a commercial pilot in India, one must have completed a course of training at an approved flying school, have obtained a commercial pilot’s license and have a minimum of 200 hours of flying experience. Commercial pilots must also comply with the regulations and guidelines set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Airline Pilots:

Airline pilots are responsible for the operation of aircrafts owned by airlines. In contrast to commercial pilots, airline pilots have more control over the aircraft and their flights, as they have a direct relationship with the airline that owns the aircraft. To become an airline pilot, one must have completed a course of training at an approved flying school, have obtained an airline transport pilot’s license and have a minimum of 2000 hours of flying experience.

Military Pilots:

Military pilots are responsible for the operation of military aircrafts. They are trained by the Indian Air Force and are expected to keep up with the latest technological developments in the field. In addition to their duties as pilots, military pilots also perform other duties such as reconnaissance, command and control of aircrafts, and provide support to the ground forces. To become a military pilot, one must have completed a course of training at the Indian Air Force Academy and have a minimum of 500 hours of flying experience.

Helicopter Pilots:

Helicopter pilots are responsible for the operation of helicopters. They are trained by the National Flying Training Institute (NFTI) and are expected to have a thorough understanding of the physics of rotorcrafts. Helicopter pilots are often employed by the government or by private companies that provide air ambulance services. To become a helicopter pilot, one must have completed a course of training at the NFTI and have a minimum of 200 hours of flying experience.

Agricultural Pilots:

Agricultural pilots are responsible for the operation of aircrafts used for agricultural purposes. They are trained by the Agricultural Aviation Association of India (AAAI) and are expected to be familiar with the various methods of crop dusting and spraying. Agricultural pilots are often employed by private companies that provide agricultural services. To become an agricultural pilot, one must have completed a course of training at the AAAI and have a minimum of 200 hours of flying experience.

In conclusion, there are several different types of pilots in India. Each type of pilot has their own unique set of responsibilities and requirements, and it is important to understand the differences between them before deciding which type of pilot to pursue. Pilots in India are highly regarded professionals who play an important role in the aviation industry, and their skills and knowledge are invaluable in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew on board aircrafts.

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.