India boasts the distinction of holding the position of the world’s third-largest civil aviation market, characterized by an impressive average annual growth rate of 12%. In this thriving industry, there are a total of 110 operators in India, collectively maintaining 1,050 aircraft, and consistently adding approximately 50 more each year. The country can also proudly claim over 9,370 active pilots as of December 2019, with a projected need for an additional 10,000 by the year 2030. Notably, the hiring of pilots surged by an impressive 88% in 2019, with Indigo leading the way as the top employer, according to data released by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
On the defensive front, the Indian Air Force stands as the fourth-largest air force worldwide, with a formidable fleet of approximately 1,820 aircraft in service. This formidable arsenal comprises 905 combat planes, 595 fighters, and 310 attackers, all expertly operated by a skilled cadre of 4,000 pilots across various categories. However, despite its strength, the force perpetually faces recruitment challenges due to the ongoing need for expansion and replacement of retiring personnel. Choosing a career as a pilot in the defense sector is a prestigious endeavor that affords the privilege of piloting fighter jets in the most demanding environments. It offers exceptional benefits, including pension plans, and, most importantly, the honor of serving one’s nation, all at virtually no personal cost, as all expenses are borne by the defense academy.
With the global demand for airline pilots reaching unprecedented levels, there has never been a more opportune moment to embark on a career as a professional pilot.
Job Description
Pilots are responsible for the operation and navigation of various aircraft, including airplanes, helicopters, and other flying machines. In the realm of modern aviation, aircraft are typically managed by a two-cockpit crew comprising the captain and the co-pilot or first officer. The captain, often the most seasoned pilot, assumes the role of the pilot in command and bears primary responsibility for the flight, overseeing all other crew members. Meanwhile, the co-pilot or first officer collaborates closely with the captain to share flight duties, which encompass flying the aircraft, communicating with air traffic controllers, monitoring instruments, and ensuring the comfort and safety of passengers.
Pilots can embark on careers in both defense and civil aviation, with the choice between the two primarily hinging on one’s passion for flying and financial means. Depending on the specific organization and sector, pilots may find themselves engaged in diverse roles, including transporting people and cargo, participating in military and combat missions, conducting intelligence and scientific surveillance, contributing to rescue and firefighting efforts, or even undertaking agricultural missions. It’s worth noting that passenger airline pilots often enjoy one of the most rewarding careers in terms of career advancement, lifestyle, salary, and comprehensive benefits.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conducting thorough pre-flight and post-flight inspections of all aircraft equipment and systems.
- Ensuring the safe operation of the aircraft.
- Providing updated and reassuring communication to passengers and crew in emergency situations.
- Assessing and selecting the safest flight routes, while analyzing flight plans prior to departure.
- Anticipating and responding with professionalism to any potential issues or emergencies.
- Completing comprehensive flight and aircraft status reports upon landing.
- Staying current with the latest developments in aircraft technology and equipment.
SPL (Student pilot license) – 16 Years and 10th (earliest you can enrol for the course)
PPL (Private pilot license) – 17 Years
CPL (Commercial pilot license) – 18 Years
10+2 with Physics and Math (Preferably with English) from CBSE or equivalent qualification from the board recognized by CBSE, State Govt. Education Board
In case of technical education like Diploma, it should be recognized either by AICTE or by the respective Directorate of Technical Education of State Govt
If any other qualification, stream or low percentage marks, candidates can apply for either subject from NIOS (National institute of open schooling)
Training and Airline Environment language is English; therefore, a good command of spoken and written English is important. Candidates also needs to undertake ICAO English level Proficiency test during their training for issue of CPL.
Indian passport or OCI
Police clearance
There is a huge misconception that pilot training requires perfect medical condition. It is true in case of Air force and other defense aviation but commercial aviation requirements are much relaxed. Read about the medical requirements.
158 cms and above (preferred)
6/6 with corrective spectacles
Teamwork, communication, interpersonal, management, multitasking, adaptability, professionalism, mental and physical fitness
Meet the DGCA and Airline eligibility
Get Class 2 and Class 1 medical
Register for PMR number, eDGCA id and Computer number
Choose a certified Flight school in India or abroad
Complete ground training of aviation subjects
Get a SPL and start flying training
During flying training, pass DGCA and RTR exams
Complete flying as per DGCA requirements including Instrument and Multi engine rating
Candidate Registration
Once all the requirements are met, candidates need to register with DGCA. There are 3 different registration required which gives access to specific facilities
- Stands for “previous medical record”
- Issued by after Class 2 medical report is
- submitted.
- It is a unique file number for each candidate that maintains for its documentation.
- All future communication will be based on this reference.
- It is a permanent unique number issued to each candidate by the Central examination organization (CEO), DGCA.
- It is required for appearing in the examinations conducted by DGCA.
- It’s not required for appearing in the examinations of SPL, GPL, FRTOL-R.
- Min age 16 years.
- Applicant must be registered on eGCA portal and should have a unique eGCA ID.
- This portal maintains all the Licenses, Ratings, and Flying hours records.
- All the Licensing issuance and Renewal requests are made from here.
Our Classes
Training Overview
In India, aspiring pilots have two primary pathways to pursue a career in aviation: the defense route or the civilian route.
Within the defense sector, entities like the Indian Air Force, Indian Naval Air Arm, Army Aviation Corps, and Indian Coast Guard annually recruit pilots through competitive selection processes such as SSB, NDA, CDSE, and AFCAT. The defense career track is fiercely competitive, as approximately 300,000 candidates vie for just 100 available positions each year. Upon completion of their training, candidates are typically committed to a predetermined service duration. After fulfilling this obligation, they have the option to either continue their military service or transition to a career in civil aviation.
On the civilian side, individuals meeting eligibility requirements and passing medical assessments can choose between training within India or pursuing training abroad. The decision between the two options hinges on factors such as cost, duration, training quality, and personal preferences. Regardless of the location, it is crucial to select a flight school with a strong infrastructure and an impeccable safety record. Once enrolled in a flight school, candidates are granted a Student Pilot License (SPL) to initiate their journey as aviators. Progression involves obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL) and eventually securing a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). Those aspiring to work with airlines may also acquire additional certifications like Instrument Rating, Multi-Engine Rating, Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) training, English Language Proficiency (ELP), and Type Ratings, among others.
Candidates graduating from these programs can explore diverse career opportunities in various sectors, including Passenger Airlines, Defense, Charter Airlines, Cargo Airlines, and Flight Schools, to name a few.
Airline Selection
Written exam (knowledgecheck)
Psychometry test (Aptitude, multi-tasking, and decision making)
Group discussion (General awareness, team player, leadership, language)
Simulator test (Aircraft flying skill)
Final interview (Technical, Personality, and Attitude)
Type Rating
Getting a commercial pilot license is just the first big step toward becoming an airline pilot. The next step is to get a type rating for the specific aircraft that you want to operate from a DGCA-approved simulator center, also known as TRTO (Type-Rating Training Organization). The most common aircraft types are A320, B737, ATR72, and Q400. Most airlines in India nowadays ask for a Type-rating endorsement for interview eligibility.
Career Progression
Top Employers
Lifestyle
A career as an airline pilot offers substantial rewards, both in terms of financial remuneration and job satisfaction. Pilots have the privilege of experiencing breathtaking aerial vistas that never cease to captivate. In India, pilots typically embark on their careers, sometimes as early as 21 years old, with starting salaries exceeding Rs 1 lakh per month. By the age of 27, a captain can earn as much as Rs 5 lakhs monthly. Additionally, most airlines extend generous staff travel benefits, offering significant discounts of 90% to 100% off ticket prices for the entire family. These perks are complemented by comprehensive insurance coverage, health benefits, and pension plans.
Nevertheless, it’s essential to acknowledge that the path to becoming a pilot is demanding. The journey is marked by rigorous training that comes at a substantial cost, averaging between Rs 70-90 lakhs per student. The Indian aviation sector is thriving, creating a substantial demand for pilots. However, the competition is fierce, and recruiters maintain high standards due to the weighty responsibilities of the profession. Securing a pilot position is just the beginning, as it involves ongoing study, staying abreast of industry advancements, maintaining flying skills, managing rest schedules, and ensuring consistent fitness to pass medical assessments, all of which pose their own challenges. Moreover, pilots may occasionally miss family gatherings and celebrations, which can be emotionally trying.
In the grand scheme of things, a pilot’s career is a comprehensive package with its share of advantages and disadvantages. However, for those with a deep-seated passion and genuine appreciation for aviation, the pros unquestionably outweigh the cons.
