Book a Demo Class, For FREE!

We care about your data in our privacy policy.

We have received your Query, Our Team will connect you shortly.

Author

Captain Tomar Awdhesh, is a highly experienced pilot with over 3,500 flying hours on the Airbus A320. With a career spanning more than 17 years. He has Authored a comprehensive book dedicated to pilots, focusing on technical and behavioral interviews for airline pilots. This book serves as an invaluable resource for aspiring pilots. He has been mentoring pilots, helping many achieve their dream of flying jet airplane since 2008. With 17 years of experience in training, he has extensive knowledge and expertise in guiding pilots through every stage of their journey. He is known for his patient and thorough approach to training, he ensures that his students acquire the necessary technical skills and develop the confidence and professionalism required to succeed in the aviation industry. In short, Captain Tomar Awdhesh is an ace aviator, author, dedicated mentor, seasoned trainer and co-founder whose contributions to the aviation field are highly valued and respected.

Share this article

India

Delhi

DGCA Ground Classes

What is the Total Cost of Pilot Training in India? Complete 2025 Breakdown

The total cost of pilot training in India is a crucial factor for aspiring aviators and their families. With fees ranging from ₹30 lakhs to ₹65 lakhs or more in 2025, understanding every component of the expense is essential for smart planning. This guide breaks down each cost, compares top institutes, and highlights what you really pay for-so you can pursue your dream of flying with confidence and clarity.

Key Components of Pilot Training Cost in India

1. Ground School Fees

Covers theoretical training: Air Regulations, Navigation, Meteorology, Technical General, and more.

Cost: ₹1–₹3 lakhs

2. Flying Hours

DGCA mandates a minimum of 200 flying hours for CPL.

Hourly flying cost: ₹12,000–₹15,000 per hour at most schools.

Total flying cost: ₹24–₹30 lakhs (for 200 hours), but can be higher at premium academies.

3. Simulator Training

Essential for instrument flying and advanced scenarios.

Cost: ₹50,000–₹2 lakhs for basic; ₹3,000–₹6,000 per hour for advanced.

4. Medical Examinations

Class 2 medical (before admission): ₹5,000–₹15,000

Class 1 medical (mandatory for CPL): Similar range.

5. DGCA Examinations and License Fees

DGCA exam fees: ₹10,000–₹20,000

License and document charges: ₹10,000–₹15,000.

6. Uniforms, Books, and Pilot Kit

Cost: ₹50,000–₹1 lakh (varies by school)

7. Type Rating (Post-CPL)

Specialized training for airline-specific aircraft (Airbus/Boeing).

Cost: ₹12–₹25 lakhs10.

Usually done after CPL, often required before airline jobs.

8. Miscellaneous and Hidden Charges

Registration, administration, insurance, security deposit.

Cost: ₹1–₹2 lakhs extra

Average Cost Breakdown Table (2025)

Training Component	Typical Cost (INR)	Notes
Ground School	₹1–₹3 lakhs	Theoretical classes
Flying Hours (200 hrs)	₹24–₹30 lakhs	₹12,000–₹15,000/hr
Simulator Training	₹50,000–₹2 lakhs	Basic; advanced extra
DGCA Exams & Licenses	₹20,000–₹35,000	All exam and licensing fees
Medicals (Class 2 & 1)	₹10,000–₹30,000	Two exams
Uniforms, Books, Kit	₹50,000–₹1 lakh	Varies by school
Miscellaneous Charges	₹1–₹2 lakhs	Admin, insurance, security, registration
CPL Total (No Type Rating)	₹30–₹55 lakhs	Varies by school and city
Type Rating (Post-CPL)	₹12–₹25 lakhs	For airline-specific aircraft
Grand Total (With Type Rating)	₹42–₹65 lakhs	Full cost to airline job readiness

Cost Variation by Institute

Institute Name	PPL Cost (₹)	CPL Cost (₹)	Simulator Training (₹/hr)
Florida Flyers Flight Academy	12–14 lakhs	35–40 lakhs	4,500–6,000
Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics	9–10 lakhs	25–30 lakhs	3,000–5,000
Capt. Gopi Aviation Academy	8–9 lakhs	22–28 lakhs	2,500–4,500
CAE Gondia	10–12 lakhs	30–40 lakhs	4,000–6,000
Indira Gandhi Institute of Civil Aviation	7–9 lakhs	20–27 lakhs	3,000–5,500

Government vs Private Flying Schools

Government Schools:

Lower fees (₹5–₹10 lakhs for PPL, ₹20–₹30 lakhs for CPL)
Limited seats, longer waiting periods.

Private Academies:

Higher fees (₹30–₹55 lakhs for CPL)
Faster training, modern fleets, more aircraft.

Factors Affecting Pilot Training Cost

Location: Metro cities and top academies charge more.
Aircraft Type: Training on advanced or multi-engine aircraft increases cost.
Fuel Prices: Fluctuating aviation fuel prices impact hourly rates.
Simulator Access: More simulator hours = higher fees, but better preparedness.
Hidden Charges: Always check for registration, insurance, and exam retake fees.

Hidden Charges and How to Avoid Surprises

Simulator sessions not included in base fees
Medical retests
Re-examination fees for DGCA papers
Uniforms, pilot kit, and insurance
Security deposit (refundable/non-refundable)
GST and other taxes

Tip: Always ask for a detailed fee structure and read the fine print before enrolling.

Payment Structure: Typical Installments

Installment Stage	Amount (₹)	What It Covers
Registration/Admission	1–2 lakhs	Registration, admin, initial kit
Ground School	1–3 lakhs	Theory classes, books
Flying Hours (per 40 hrs)	5–7 lakhs	Pay as you fly, in blocks
Simulator Training	50,000–2 lakhs	Paid before simulator sessions
Final Installment	3–5 lakhs	License processing, exam fees

Sample Cost Checklist for Aspiring Pilots

Ground school and theory classes
Flying hours (200 minimum for CPL)
Simulator training
DGCA exam and license fees
Medical exams (Class 2 and Class 1)
Uniforms, books, pilot kit
Registration, insurance, security deposit
Type rating (post-CPL, for airline jobs)
GST and other taxes

How to Plan and Finance Your Pilot Training

1. Research Multiple Schools:
Compare costs, facilities, and aircraft availability.

2. Ask for Detailed Fee Structure:
Get a written breakdown of every charge.

3. Plan for Hidden Expenses:
Budget for medicals, retests, and living expenses.

4. Explore Education Loans:
Many banks offer loans for pilot training. Golden Epaulettes Aviation provides guidance on loan applications.

5. Look for Scholarships:
Some institutes and aviation foundations offer merit-based scholarships.

6. Consider Type Rating Early:
Plan for this major expense post-CPL if you aim for airline jobs.

Golden Epaulettes Aviation

Best Pilot Training Institute

1350

Review

GE has a team of experienced faculty that includes Qualified Instructors. Golden Epaulettes Aviation is an ISO certified pilot training institute based in New Delhi, that offers multiple courses from the ab-intio till the cockpit of commercial airliner. GE has been a leading pilot training academy in India since a decade now and we fully recognized our responsibility towards aviation industry as a whole. There has been a high demand of competent, skilful professional pilots in the industry and we are committed to develop & train a pool of professionals to fulfil the need of the industry.