Top FAQs About Becoming a Pilot in India – Expert Answers 2025

If you’re aiming to become a commercial pilot in India, you probably have dozens of questions. From CPL course fees to DGCA medicals and cadet pilot programs, the process can be overwhelming. This article answers the most frequently asked questions about becoming a pilot in India — with real, clear, and structured guidance.

1. What is the minimum qualification required to become a pilot in India?

You must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics. If you're from a non-science background, NIOS or state board open schooling options exist.

Quick Checklist:

• 10+2 or equivalent with Physics & Math
• Age: Minimum 17 years for PPL, 18 for CPL

Indian passport (preferred for future travel/visa purposes)

2. What are the steps to become a commercial pilot in India?

Here’s a step-by-step list of the typical pilot training journey:

• Clear Class 2 and Class 1 DGCA medicals
• Enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school
• Appear and clear DGCA CPL exams (Air Regulations, Meteorology, Navigation, Technical General)
• Log minimum 200 flying hours
• Pass Radio Telephony (RTR) and WPC license
• Apply for CPL issuance

Complete airline-specific Type Rating or Cadet Program

3. What is the difference between CPL and PPL?

4. How much does CPL training cost in India?

CPL training in India typically costs between ₹35 lakhs to ₹55 lakhs. This includes:

• Ground school
• Flying hours (200 hours minimum)
• DGCA exam fees
• Simulator training
• Hostel/accommodation and misc. charges

Golden Epaulettes Aviation offers clear breakdowns and structured planning tools to help students manage these expenses effectively.

5. How long does pilot training take?

A typical CPL training takes 18–24 months depending on flying school schedule, weather conditions, and DGCA exam results.

Duration Breakdown Table:

6. What are Class 1 and Class 2 DGCA medicals?

Class 2 Medicals: Required to start pilot training. You can get it done from DGCA-approved doctors.

Class 1 Medicals: Mandatory for CPL issuance. Done at DGCA-authorized centers like AFCME (Delhi), IAM (Bangalore), etc.

Medical Checklist Includes:

• Vision and hearing tests
• ECG, blood tests, X-ray
• Urinalysis, BMI check
• Detailed cardiac evaluation

7. What are CPL subjects and how are the exams structured?

DGCA CPL syllabus includes:

• Air Navigation
• Meteorology
• Air Regulations
• Technical General
• Technical Specific (for aircraft type)
• RTR (handled by WPC)

Exam Details:

• Multiple choice questions
• Passing mark: 70%
• Conducted online at DGCA-approved centers

Golden Epaulettes Aviation provides CPL exam preparation through mock tests, ground school classes, and updated DGCA syllabus support.

8. Is the cadet pilot program better than traditional CPL?

Cadet Pilot Program Pros:

• Airline-specific training
• Job assurance (subject to completion)
• Structured, fast-track training

Cons:

• High cost (₹80 lakhs – ₹1.2 crore)
• Competitive selection (aptitude, psychometric, interview rounds)
• Bond/contract periods

9. What is the average pilot salary in India?

Starting salary for fresh CPL holders without cadet program ranges from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh/month. With Type Rating and airline job:

• First Officer: ₹2.5 – ₹5 lakh/month
• Captain (after years of flying): ₹6 – ₹10 lakh/month

10. What are the chances of getting a job after CPL?

There is no guaranteed job after CPL unless you enter through a cadet program. However, building hours, clearing airline assessments, and staying updated on vacancies improves chances. Golden Epaulettes Aviation regularly shares job alerts, interview prep guidance, and mock assessments to bridge this gap.

11. Which is better: India or abroad for pilot training?

India:

• Lower overall cost
• Direct DGCA compliance
• Weather delays possible

Abroad (USA/Canada/South Africa):

• Fast training due to better flying days
• Conversion process needed for DGCA
• Higher cost, plus visa/travel expenses

12. How do I apply to a DGCA-approved flying school?

• Check DGCA’s approved list
• Clear Class 2 medical
• Appear for an aptitude test/interview
• Submit documents (10+2, ID, passport)
• Pay registration and initial fees

Golden Epaulettes Aviation helps aspiring pilots choose the right flying school based on budget, flying slots, and exam timelines.

13. What is the age limit to become a pilot?

Minimum: 17 years for PPL, 18 for CPL
Maximum: No upper limit, but most airlines prefer hiring pilots below 32 years of age for cadet programs.

14. Do I need a passport for pilot training?

Yes, especially if you plan to train abroad or appear for visa applications during airline jobs. It is also used as a primary ID for various DGCA formalities.

15. Is a degree necessary for becoming a pilot?

No. A 10+2 with Physics and Math is enough. However, a degree can help in immigration, backup careers, or foreign airline recruitment.

16. What documents are required for admission?

Flying School Admission Checklist:

• 10th and 12th mark sheets
• Birth certificate
• Passport
• Class 2 medical certificate
• Passport-size photos
• PAN card and Aadhar (for ID)

17. What’s the role of Golden Epaulettes Aviation in CPL training?

Golden Epaulettes Aviation supports aspiring pilots with:

• Ground school coaching
• DGCA exam prep
• Medical test guidance
• Flying school admission support
• Cadet program interview prep
• CPL timeline tracking
• Internal resources for licensing and job alerts

18. Can girls become commercial pilots in India?

Yes, gender is not a barrier. In fact, India has the highest percentage of female pilots globally. Equal training, selection, and job opportunities apply.

19. What is Type Rating?

Type Rating is specialized training for flying a specific aircraft like A320 or B737. It’s mandatory for airline recruitment.

• Cost: ₹18–30 lakhs
  Duration: 3 months
  Eligibility: Valid CPL and Class 1 medical

20. What are internal links and how do they help?

Internal links on websites like Golden Epaulettes Aviation guide users to detailed pages such as CPL overview, cadet pilot resources, medical requirements, and latest DGCA news. They help students find focused content without navigating away or searching multiple pages.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a pilot in India is a structured but demanding journey. From passing DGCA exams to choosing the right flying school and preparing for cadet pilot assessments, every step matters. This FAQ guide covers all major doubts — helping you make informed decisions, plan timelines, and avoid common mistakes.

If you're serious about aviation in 2025, platforms like Golden Epaulettes Aviation provide the practical knowledge, prep resources, and mentorship you need to navigate the journey successfully.