Career as Pilot

Last Updated By Sumit Kumar on 19 Sep, 2023

How to Become a Pilot

About Pilot

Pilots are trained professionals who steer and fly airplanes and other types of aircraft. They remain the backbone of the aviation industry. Pilots are responsible for flying passengers and goods from one location to another. From performing pre and post-flight aircraft assessments, controlling the flight, being responsible for managing the cockpit, keeping a sharp look at the air regulation, planning flights, inspecting the air traffic as required, etc. There are various types of Pilots such as Commercial Pilots, Helicopter pilots, Military Pilots, etc. The duties, as well as, credentials differ relying on the airplane that they are in control of flying. Many students wonder how to become Pilot after graduation or 12th as it is a rewarding career path.

If you wish to pursue Pilot as your career, you are required to be at least 17 years of age and have passed class 12 with 50% marks from a recognized institute, and have science and mathematics as compulsory subjects. Some of the top institutions that offer pilot courses are IIT Roorkee, IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, Lovely Professional University (LPU), BITS Pilani, Amity University, IISC Bangalore, etc. The average pilot salary in India ranges from freshers level to senior level at INR 2,00,000 to INR 20,00,000 per annum. 

Here we will discuss the facets of pilot as a career, pilot eligibility criteria, pilot salary in India, the pros, and cons of becoming a pilot, top recruiters, and other related topics.

Who is Pilot?

A pilot is an experienced aviator who controls and navigates aircraft. Pilots are in charge of ensuring the safe and efficient transfer of people, cargo, or both. They get intensive pilot training in order to gain the requisite information and abilities, such as flight controls, instrument reading, navigation, and emergency procedures.

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How to Become Pilot in India

If you are planning to become a pilot in India, then the following career guide will help you with what steps to take starting from your school-level education to securing a job.

1. Study Class 12th with Science

Start by completing your Class 12 (10+2) education with Physics and Mathematics as core subjects. A strong foundation in these subjects is essential for understanding the technical aspects of aviation.

2. Choose a Reputable Flying Insitute

Get admission in a DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation)-approved flying school for pilot training. 

3. Acquire Class 1 Medical Certificate

Candidates must go through a medical examination from a DGCA-approved doctor to ensure they meet the physical fitness requirements for flying which is crucial if you want to become a pilot. 

4. Private Pilot License (PPL)

Begin your pilot training journey by completing approximately 50-60 hours of flying training at the flying school. After successfully passing the necessary exams and flight tests, you will be awarded a Private Pilot License (PPL).

5. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

 After acquiring a PPL, candidates must continue their training to cover a total of 200 hours of flight time, including 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command. Additionally, you must pass CPL theoretical exams covering subjects such as Air Regulations, Navigation, Meteorology, and more.

6. Get Type Rating

If your ambition is to pursue a career with airlines, you will need to obtain a type rating on specific aircraft

7. Multi-Engine Rating (for CPL holders)

 As a CPL holder, you must also undergo multi-engine aircraft training to add this rating to your license. This qualification is necessary for flying multi-engine aircraft.

8. Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

Upon completing a minimum of 1500 hours of flight time, including 500 hours as Pilot-in-Command, and fulfilling all the required qualifications, you can apply for the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). This is the highest level of pilot certification and allows you to act as a Captain on commercial airliners.

9. Apply for Job:

After obtaining your ATPL and fulfilling all necessary requirements, you can apply to airlines or charter companies for pilot jobs and attain your dream of becoming pilot. 

Exam required to become Pilot in India

You need to clear the following exams with flying colors to become a pilot in India. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) administers these tests, which are required steps in the process of becoming a pilot in India.

  • Exam for the Private Pilot License (PPL): To get the PPL, you must pass theoretical tests covering topics such as air regulations, aviation meteorology, air navigation, aircraft engines, and aircraft systems.
  • Exams for the Commercial Pilot License (CPL): To obtain the CPL, you must pass additional theoretical tests on advanced aviation disciplines like Instrument Rating, Radio Telephony, and others.

Skills Required to Become Pilot in India

To become a pilot in India, you need the following skills

  • Excellent hand-eye coordination
  • Quick decision-making
  • Situational awareness
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Strong understanding of Physics and Mathematics
  • Communication skills
  • Leadership qualities

How to Become Pilot in Abroad

Candidates can also opt to study to become pilot in India. There are a number of international flight schools in which you can enroll and acquire quality education and training. Given below are the details on how to become a pilot in abroad.

Step 1: Shortlist the Flight Insitute

Firstly, you must decide on the flying school in which you wish to enroll, check the eligibility requirement, find out about the physical health requirements, and make sure you fulfill them. Also, get details on how to get a student visa for a particular country, are you eligible for it or not? 

Step 2: Do Private Pilot License (PPL) Training

The journey of becoming a pilot involves lots of pilot training. If you have no flight experience earlier, then your path to becoming a pilot will begin with PPL training which will introduce you to the fundamentals of flying and covers basic flight maneuvers.

Step 3: Ground School Training

In parallel with flight training, you will also undergo ground school training, which covers pilot core subjects such as Navigation,  Air Regulations, Meteorology, Aircraft Systems, and more. 

Step 4: Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Training

After obtaining a PPL, candidates should continue with CPL training to prepare for a career as a professional pilot. CPL training involves more advanced flight maneuvers, navigation exercises, and additional theoretical subjects that will make you an excellent pilot. 

Step 5: Pass Theoretical Exams

Throughout your training, you'll need to pass various theoretical exams on aviation-related subjects conducted by the aviation authority of the international country you are training in.

Step 6: Flight Hours and Experience

To become a pilot in abroad, it is important that you have covered the required flight hours as per the regulations of the foreign country. The number of flight hours needed for CPL varies depending on the country and its aviation authority.

Step 7: Type Rating (if applicable)

If you plan to fly specific aircraft types, you may need to undergo type rating training for those aircraft. Type ratings are often provided or sponsored by airlines during their pilot training programs.

Step 8: Additional Ratings

Depending on your career goals, you may pursue additional ratings such as Instrument Rating (IR) and Multi-Engine Rating (MER), which can enhance your qualifications and employability.

Step 9: Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

After gaining a significant number of flight hours and fulfilling all necessary qualifications, you can apply for the ATPL, which allows you to act as a Captain on commercial airliners.

Step 10: Apply for Jobs:

Start applying to airlines, charter companies, or other aviation organizations for pilot positions once you have completed your pilot qualifications and training. 

Exam required to become Pilot in Abroad

The entrance exams that are required to become a pilot varies as per country. However, some of the common exams that a candidate must clear to become a pilot in abroad are:

  • Private Pilot License (PPL) Exams
  • Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Exams
  • Instrument Rating (IR) Exams
  • Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) Exams
  • Multi-Engine Rating (MER) Exams
  • Type Rating Exams (if applicable)

Skills Required to Become Pilot in Abroad

To become a pilot in abroad, you need the following skills

  • Excellent hand-eye coordination
  • Quick decision-making
  • Situational awareness
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Strong understanding of Physics and Mathematics
  • Communication skills
  • Leadership qualities

How to Become Pilot after 12th

Candidates who want to start their journey to becoming pilots after class 12th must follow the steps given below. 

Step 

Process

Step 1: Choose a Flight Training

Candidates should choose flight training institutes that offer training to students who passed class 12th. Studying in these institutes students receives an in-depth study of the subject, and also establish the groundwork for them to thrive as individuals. 

Among the greatest aviation institutes in India include the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Academy, National Flying Training Institute, Rajiv Gandhi Academy of Aviation Technology, Bombay Flying Club, and others.

Step 2: Acquire Working Experience 

If you want to be a pilot, you must complete a particular amount of flying training hours in order to obtain a license. The number of training hours required is determined on the sort of pilot program sought.

 For example, a commercial pilot's license requires 250 hours of flight experience, whereas an airline pilot requires 1,500 hours. Formal training provides you with a basic education; but, if you want to get more in-depth information and experience, you can hire a personal tutor or even join the military.

Step 3: Get a Pilot License

The next step is to get a pilot license for which candidates become eligible once they accrue the necessary amount of flight hours, followed by a written evaluation demonstrating your flying skills and passing the physical examination. 

Step 4: Complete Additional Training and Tests

Many airlines demand that pilots undergo psychological and aptitude exams as a requirement for employment. After being hired, pilots go through further training and flying hours to get comfortable as a co-pilot. If you subsequently intend to work for a large airline, obtaining prior experience with a smaller airline firm is usually advantageous in the long run. 

Step 5: Airline Pilot Experience

Jumping from pilot to captain is entirely dependent on seniority and background. To gain higher flying ratings, you must pass further FAA written and practical tests. You can keep studying and investigating how the market is changing. 

Step 6: Progress towards Career and become advance pilot

Jumping from pilot to captain is entirely dependent on seniority and background. To gain higher flying ratings, you must pass further FAA written and practical tests. You can keep studying and investigating how the market is changing. 

Another option for becoming a pilot after the Class 12th is to enroll in a Commercial Pilot Training [CPL] program after finishing 10+2. To qualify for this, you must pass the institute's prescribed entrance exam, interview, and medical examination. 

Exam required to become Pilot after 12th

The entrance exam required to become a pilot after Class 12th in India is the NDA exam. You must undergo flight training after finishing the three-year program. You will thereafter function as a permanent commission officer.

You can join the IAF's flying branch if you pass the NDA exam. It is a math-based test with a general ability component that includes the primary disciplines of English, Geography, History, General Knowledge, Physics, Math, Chemistry, and Current Events.

Skills Required to Become Pilot After 12th

To become an outstanding pilot one must have certain quality skills. Pilots need to be good communicators and team players in addition to having leadership abilities. Check the skills required to become a pilot after 12th Class given below. 

  • Strong Communication skills
  • Decisiveness & Quick Thinking Skills
  • Confidence, Attitude & Self-Discipline
  • Leadership skills 
  • Expertise in Mathematics and Physics
  • Situational Awareness
  • Team-Working Skills
  • Stress Management and Decisiveness

How to Become a Pilot after Graduation

To become a pilot after securing a bachelor’s degree, follow the steps given below,

Step 1: Secure a degree

Having a bachelor's degree is not mandatory to become a pilot. However, if you have a degree like Bachelor in Aeronautics/Aerospace Sciences, Bachelor in Aviation, it will help you advance your career fast. To become a pilot it's important that you enroll in a pilot training course which is affiliated.

Step 2: Obtain Flying Experience

To earn a license, you must complete a certain number of flight training hours. A commercial pilot license requires 250 hours of training. A pilot for an airline, on the other hand, requires 1500 hours of training.

Step 3: Obtain a License

You must pass an aptitude exam, a psychological test, and a physical test after fulfilling the requirement of flying hours. 

Step 4: Improve Your Flight Skills

With years of experience, you can rise from pilot to captain. As you acquire experience, you will be able to fly longer and more demanding journeys. Furthermore, passing further FAA exams will get you additional flying ratings

Exam is required to become Pilot After graduation

In India, there are three major aviation exams: the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA) Entrance Test, the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), and the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Common Entrance Exam (AME CET).

Skills Required to Become Pilot After Graduation

To become a pilot after graduation, you need the following skills

  • Excellent hand-eye coordination
  • Quick decision-making
  • Situational awareness
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Strong understanding of Physics and Mathematics
  • Communication skills
  • Leadership qualities     

Eligibility to become Pilot

In India, two aspects determine eligibility to become a pilot: physical fitness and educational qualifications. Each candidate must achieve specific qualifications in order to become a pilot. Candidates can check the pilot eligibility criteria given below.

Educational Qualification of Pilot

  • The basic qualification to become a pilot is that candidate must have passed class 10+2 from a recognized school to enroll in pilot training courses. 
  • It is important for candidates to be from the Science stream with Physics and Mathematics as the main subjects.
  • Candidates must have at least 50% in 10+2.
  • Qualifications of pilots also include a bachelor’s degree in aviation which is demanded by some of the airlines. 
  • To be eligible for pilot training, the candidate must be at least 17 years old.
  • If you are a student who does not study science, you can complete the necessary coursework through the National Institute of Open Schooling or as a private candidate through the appropriate state board.

Physical Requirements For Pilot

The physical requirement to become a pilot varies for male and female students and can be checked below. 

  • Physical Requirements of male candidates to become pilot 

Specifications 

Details

Vision 

6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other

Leg Length 

99 cms to 120 cms

Height 

163.5 cms

Sitting Height 

81.5 cms to 96 cms

Thigh Length 

64 cms

  • Physical Requirements of male candidates to become pilot 

Specifications 

Details

Vision 

6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other

Height 

162.5 cms

Leg Length 

99 cms - 120 cms

Sitting Height 

81.5 cms - 96 cms

Thigh Length 

64 cms

Types of Pilot

Often, candidates find it hard to decide on what type of pilots he/she wants to become. To choose a designated pilot type, candidates must understand the broad classification of pilots. There are different categories of pilots that can attract candidates with the job profile they possess. Read in detail the pilot job profiles and choose the one that suits you.

Commercial Pilots:

As the name suggests, these are pilots that fly for commercial purposes. They are responsible for handling the commercial requirements of the airlines. Be it carrying passengers from one place to another or being involved in activities like aerobatics, air rallies and aeromodelling. Candidates must also know that these commercial pilots are licensed pilots and are directly and indirectly responsible for the flights they use. The commercial pilots can further be divided into three sub-categories, based on the different functions they perform. These are as follows:

a) Passenger Pilots: These pilots are responsible mainly for carrying passengers from one state/country to another state/country. Passengers along with the plane are the priorities for these passenger pilots.

b) Cargo Pilots: Cargo pilots are the ones responsible to transport goods from one place to another as assigned by the cargo agencies. These flights can easily be tracked by the cargo or the courier company and then be notified to the customer.

c) Aerosports Pilots: These pilots are involved in activities like adventure and sports activities including aerobatics, aeromodelling, ballooning, air racing, air rallies, etc.

Military Pilots:

They are the considered as the backbone for the Indian Armed Forces comprising the Indian Army, Airforce and Navy. The military pilots support the Armed Forces with their air skills to engage into air-to-air combat, identifying missions and transporting army essentials and personnel. The sub-divisions are as under –

a) Airforce Pilots: Airforce pilots consist of skilled and expert airplane and helicopter pilots known for their skilled work in transporter pilots, fighter pilots and attack heli pilots. Both Airforce and Navy have Drone Pilots too. These are pilots responsible to handle Drones and its activities.

b) Army Pilots: Pilots of this section are mostly Heli Pilots with expertise in attack helicopters, mission-based helicopters, surveillance and reconnaissance.

c) Navy Pilots: Like the Airforce pilots, Navy pilots are also experts in handling both helicopters and airplanes when required by the Indian Navy. Transporting things from one military base to other is a basic function for the navy transporter pilots. The fighter pilots and attack heli pilots are responsible for the mission-based activities assigned by the officials.

Private Pilots:

These are the pilots hired for corporate or personal requirements. Private jets and helicopters are flown by these private pilots. A private Pilot License is issued to these pilots under the guidance and regulations of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Private pilots can also be commercial pilots as per their needs and requirements. 

Salary of Pilot

The sky is the limit for pilots in terms of assessing their financial returns in terms of income. Pilots are paid well, allowing them to live comfortably and achieve their financial ambitions. Candidates can check the salary of pilots given below:

Salary of Commercial Pilot

Job Profile

Starting Salary per annum (in INR)

Mid Level Salary per annum (in INR)

Senior Level Salary per annum (INR)

Salary of Commercial Pilots

1,77,539

23,63,300

1,00,45,414

Salary of Military Pilot

Job Profile

Starting Salary per annum (in INR)

Mid Level Salary per annum (in INR)

Senior Level Salary per annum (INR)

Salary of Military Pilots

7,00,000

10,00,000

20,00,000

Salary of Private Pilot

Job Profile

Starting Salary per annum (in INR)

Mid Level Salary per annum (in INR)

Senior Level Salary per annum (INR)

Salary of Private Pilots

1,50,000 - 2,00,000

5,00,000 - 8,00,000

10,00,000 - 20,00,000

**Note: The salary of pilot mentioned above is an approximate estimate and may vary from one organisation to the other organisation

Courses to Become Pilot

The route to become pilot involves majorly pilot training from a reputed institute however if you want you can start with a bachelor's degree and then go for a masters degree. The following are the courses that you can study to become a pilot. 

Bachelor’s Courses to become a pilot 

Master’s Courses to become pilot

 
  • BBA Airport Management
  • B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) Aviation
  • BBA Aviation Operations
  • BMS in Aviation Management
  • B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) Avionics Engineering
  • B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) Aeronautical Science
  • M.Sc. (Master of Science) Aerospace Engineering
  • MSc in Aviation
  • M.Sc. (Master of Science) in Aeronautical Science 
  • MBA in Aviation

List of Colleges which Provide Courses to Become Pilot

Following are some of the aviation colleges in India that offer relevant courses which you can study and become a pilot. 

Name of CollegeCourse Fee

Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Academy

Rs. 38 Lakh
Rajiv Gandhi Academy of Aviation Technology Rs. 25 Lakh
Ahmedabad Aviation and Aeronautics LimitedRs. 35 Lakh
Madhya Pradesh Flying ClubRs. 32 Lakh
National Flying Training InstituteRs. 22 Lakh
Bombay Flying ClubRs. 20 Lakh
CAE Oxford Aviation AcademyRs. 25 Lakh
Indigo Cadet Training Program Rs. 32 Lakh
Government Aviation Training InstituteRs. 38 Lakh
Puducherry Thakur College of AviationRs. 23 Lakh
Government Flying Club Rs. 37 Lakh
Orient Flying SchoolRs. 25 Lakh
Institute of Aviation and Aviation SafetyRs. 33 Lakh

Types of Job Roles Pilot

Often, candidates find hard to decide on what type of pilots he/she wants to become. To choose a designated pilot type, candidates must understand the broad classification of pilots. There are different categories of pilots that can attract candidates with the job profile they possess. Read in detail the pilot job profiles and choose the one that suits you.

Commercial Pilots: As the name suggests, these are pilots that fly for commercial purposes. They are responsible for handling the commercial requirements of the airlines. Be it carrying passengers from one place to another or being involved in activities like aerobatics, air rallies and aeromodelling. Candidates must also know that these commercial pilots are licensed pilots and are directly and indirectly responsible for the flights they use. The commercial pilots can further be divided into three sub-categories, based on the different functions they perform. These are as follows:

a) Passenger Pilots: These pilots are responsible mainly for carrying passengers from one state/country to another state/country. Passengers along with the plane are the priorities for these passenger pilots.

b) Cargo Pilots: Cargo pilots are the ones responsible to transport goods from one place to another as assigned by the cargo agencies. These flights can easily be tracked by the cargo or the courier company and then be notified to the customer.

c) Aerosports Pilots: These pilots are involved in activities like adventure and sports activities including aerobatics, aeromodelling, ballooning, air racing, air rallies, etc.

Military Pilots: They are the considered as the backbone for the Indian Armed Forces comprising the Indian Army, Airforce and Navy. The military pilots support the Armed Forces with their air skills to engage into air-to-air combat, identifying missions and transporting army essentials and personnel. The sub-divisions are as under –

a) Airforce Pilots: Airforce pilots consist of skilled and expert airplane and helicopter pilots known for their skilled work in transporter pilots, fighter pilots and attack heli pilots. Both Airforce and Navy have Drone Pilots too. These are pilots responsible to handle Drones and its activities.

b) Army Pilots: Pilots of this section are mostly Heli Pilots with expertise in attack helicopters, mission-based helicopters, surveillance and reconnaissance.

c) Navy Pilots: Like the Airforce pilots, Navy pilots are also experts in handling both helicopters and airplanes when required by the Indian Navy. Transporting things from one military base to other is a basic function for the navy transporter pilots. The fighter pilots and attack heli pilots are responsible for the mission-based activities assigned by the officials.

Private Pilots: These are the pilots hired for corporate or personal requirements. Private jets and helicopters are flown by these private pilots. A private Pilot License is issued to these pilots under the guidance and regulations of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Private pilots can also be commercial pilots as per their needs and requirements.            

Employment Opportunities for Pilots

To start up a career as a pilot you have diverse career opportunities to choose from. Knowing the career opportunities, you will have ideas of the job profiles. After knowing the career options available, you are aware of the steps that have to be followed which include certification, licensing, and training. To assist the aspirers, we have listed the top and available pilot job opportunities. The same has been listed below. 

  • Arline Industries
  • Indian Armed Forces
  • Indian Navy
  • Indian Air Force
  • Transportation and Logistics Companies
  • Drone Providers and Manufacturers

Top Recruiting Companies for Pilots

In order to become a successful pilot, it is important for candidates to join a company or organisation where the scope of opportunities and growth are higher than others. There are a number of companies and organisations that hire pilots. Instead of getting confused about which company or organisation should be the best choice, candidates can go through the following that will help them to dig out the best company as per their requirement and qualifications. 

  • Department of Civil Aviation
  • Indian Armed Forces
  • Air India
  • Indian Navy
  • Air Asia
  • Indigo
  • Spice Jet
  • Vistara
  • Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Pvt Ltd
  • Skyworld Charter Services

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Pay Scale/Salary of Pilot

Pilot's salary depends on the industry in which they have been hired. Pilot salaries can vary based on their certification and their logged flying hours. Pilots are deployed by private operators, can be enlisted in the military forces or can pursue a lucrative career as a Commercial Pilot. Mentioned-below are the salary scale of the different types of pilots:

Job Profile

Starting Salary per annum (in INR)

Mid Level Salary per annum (in INR)

Senior Level Salary per annum (INR)

Commercial Pilots

1,77,539

23,63,300

1,00,45,414

Military Pilots

7,00,000

10,00,000

20,00,000

Private Pilots

1,50,000 - 2,00,000

5,00,000 - 8,00,000

10,00,000 - 20,00,000

 

Note: The figures mentioned above are an approximate estimate and may vary from one organisation to the other organisation.

Books & Study Material to Become Pilot

To pursue this career, all you need to do is to have a good command over the subject matters asked at the time of selection in an institution. You need to be good in Physics and Mathematics, both at the 10th and 12th level, in order to understand the theories and practicalities of a professional degree like Pilot. You must focus on your 10th and 12th-course books. You need to be agile and grab every learning opportunity that comes your way to learn the tricks of the trade. Being a pilot will give you an on-the-job learning experience and the more you learn & implement in your work, the chances of you becoming an expert in this field will increase, which will subsequently reflect in your pay package. However, you can go through the books of some renowned authors that focus mainly on becoming a good pilot. Enlisted below are some of these good books that can help you strive for your career

Pilot Training Textbooks

Author/ Publisher

Air Navigation (CPL-ATPL), the 2nd Revised Edition

R. K. Bali

Fly the wing

Jim Webb

How to Fly a Plane

Nick Barnard

You Can Be A Pilot! Answers to 25 Popular Questions About Learning to Fly

Chris Findley

50 Real-World Pilot Tips

Mark Robidoux

Weather Flying

Robert N. Buck

The Spirit of St. Louis

Charles A. Lindbergh

Pros of becoming a Pilot

Candidates entering the aviation industry and wondering how to become a pilot have to learn a lot and absorb it through training simulations. This becomes a great opportunity for the ones after they are certified and licensed. Some of the advantages of being a pilot after stepping into the aviation sector have been discussed in the following pointers. 

  • The pilot salary in India is higher which becomes a major advantage to choose a career as a pilot. This is one of the main reasons why candidates are driven toward the aviation industry. As per the reports, the average pilot salary in India of an experienced pilot ranges from INR 10,00,000 to INR 1,00,00,000 per annum
  • There are numerous travel opportunities that are available for pilots. It is beneficial to the ones who have a fascination to travel the world. It becomes easier when one is involved in the aviation industry. Unlike other jobs, it is not required to work at a desk or in the field. Once candidates are off the flight, they step into a new culture and a new environment. With a new flight, a new exploration is unlocked
  • One of the advantages of being a pilot is a high reputation in society as it is regarded as an honored job corresponding to other careers. The demeanor of individuals towards pilots is exceptionally pleasant and respectful as it is considered a job with high social status and responsibilities.
  • Pilots relish free stays and food at airports and locations they visit. While relishing various food and culture all across the world, a pilot enjoys free hotels in any nation they visit. The skills furnished to pilots are improved quality, and they enjoy dwelling in the most acceptable resorts in foreign countries.

Cons of becoming a Pilot

Unlike the other side of the coin, a career as a pilot has some disadvantages that are faced by the candidates pursuing this course. Some of the common disadvantages of becoming a pilot have been listed in the points below.

  • The cost of pilot training varies considerably for a private and government pilot license. The cost of private institutes is comparatively higher compared to government institutes. The admission fee of the flight schools might not be easily affordable for everyone, if you want to study on loan, it can put you under a hefty burden before earning
  • The number of seats in the flight colleges is restricted, and entrance exams can also be tough
  • The working schedule for the pilots is tight. Sometimes due to the cancellation and changes in the flights, it can lead them to work day and night without a break. A pilot must be prepared 24x7 to take his passengers to their locations
  • There are certain health risks that are seen due to staying in high altitudes and spending a lot of time on flights. As per some studies, they have been tested to be prone to higher risks of cancer due to their constant divulgence to high altitudes and high radiation levels. As per working time, pilots stay in the air, which can also cause health issues such as sleeplessness

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FAQs about Pilot

What qualifications do I need to be a pilot?

The qualification of pilots includes a class 10+ 2 certificate with Maths and Physics as main subjects. Additionally, you must obtain a Class 1 Medical Certificate and complete pilot training to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

How can I become a pilot after 12th?

To become a pilot after 12th, enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school for pilot training, obtain a Class 1 Medical Certificate, and complete the required flight hours to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

How many years does take to become a pilot?

The selection procedure to join the IAF takes one to two years after taking the AFCAT exam. The AFA offers training as well. Depending on the type of aircraft you will be flying, your training may differ, but becoming a pilot typically takes one and a half to two years.

Which subject is best for the pilot?

Mathematics and Physics are the two core subjects that students must be proficient in to become a pilot.

Which course is best for pilots?

The best course for becoming a pilot is a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) course, which provides the necessary training and qualifications to pursue a career as a professional pilot.

What are the fees of a pilot study?

The average pilot training course fees in India range between INR 35,00,000 to INR 40,00,000.

Can I become a pilot without an exam?

There is no way you can become a pilot without clearing any kind of exam. The job of a pilot is a very crucial job as it carries the life of various passengers. To become a pilot you need to clear all sorts of medical exams, practical exams, fitness exams, and theoretical exams.

Do Class 12th marks matter in the pilot?

Candidates who apply for the technical branch should have an overall score of 50% in both physics and mathematics, regardless of their 12th-grade percentage.

Which age is best for pilot?

To be eligible to study pilot training courses candidate must be minimum 17 years of age.

Is 25 a good age to become a pilot?

Yes, 25 is a good age to become a pilot.

Is becoming a pilot hard?

If your dream is to become a pilot and you are dedicated to your career goals then the path is easy. In fact, you will enjoy your pilot training days. But, becoming a pilot requires dedication, hard work, and financial investment, making it challenging but rewarding for those with a passion for aviation

What is the fees of pilot training in India?

The total fees of pilot training in India are around INR 15 LPA to INR 40 LPA.

What is the salary of a pilot in India?

An entry-level pilot makes an average yearly pay of INR 28 LPA with less than three years of experience. A pilot in the middle of their career with 4 to 9 years of experience makes an average of INR 34.1 LPA, while a pilot with 10 to 20 years of experience makes an average of INR 49.7 LPA.

Which college is best for pilot in India?

Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA), Ahmedabad Aviation & Aeronautics Ltd, Bombay Flying Club, Rajiv Gandhi Aviation Academy, etc are some of the best colleges in which you can take admission for becoming a pilot.

Is pilot a good career option?

Yes, being a pilot can be a rewarding career option for those passionate about aviation and flying. It offers opportunities for travel, competitive salaries, career advancement, and the chance to work in a dynamic and exciting industry. However, it requires dedication, hard work, and financial investment in training.

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