Becoming a pilot is a rewarding journey, and here is a detailed guide to help you through the entire process in India.
Step 1: Educational Prerequisites
To begin your journey to becoming a pilot, you need to meet the following educational qualifications:
10+2 with Physics and Mathematics: You must have completed your 12th grade with Physics and Mathematics as subjects.
Alternative for Non-Science Students: If you didn’t take Physics and Mathematics in your 10+2, you can complete these subjects through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) or any state-recognized open school board.
Step 2: Medical Requirements
You must pass the DGCA-prescribed medical tests to ensure you meet the physical and mental fitness standards. There are two types of medicals required:
Class 2 Medical Examination
This is the basic medical check-up required to begin your pilot training.
You can take the Class 2 medical at any DGCA-approved aeromedical center.
Where to Find Class 2 Medical Exam Centers
Class 1 Medical Examination
Tip: Your Class 1 Medical Certificate must remain valid throughout your training and career.
Step 3: Obtain a Computer Number
The Computer Number is an essential identifier issued by DGCA, which you need to appear for theoretical exams.
How to Apply for a Computer Number:
Gather Documents: Collect your educational certificates (10+2 with Physics and Mathematics) and your medical certificates.
Online Application: Apply for your Computer Number on the DGCA Pariksha Portal.
Wait for Verification: Once your documents are verified, your Computer Number will be issued, which is required for the next steps.
Tip: You can start the Computer Number process while you’re still working on your medicals to save time.
Step 4: Choose Your Training Path
Once you’ve completed your medicals and obtained your Computer Number, the next important step is to decide between two primary training paths:
Cadet Program
Conventional Program
For more information on these training programs and how to choose between them, please refer to our detailed article: Cadet Program vs. Conventional Program.
Step 5: Clear DGCA Theoretical Exams
After selecting your training path, the next step is to prepare and clear the DGCA theoretical exams.
These exams cover subjects like Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations, and Aircraft Systems.
You need to clear all the subjects in the DGCA theoretical exams to proceed with your flight training.
Step 6: Complete Flying Training and Obtain CPL
Once you've cleared the DGCA theoretical exams, it’s time to complete your flying training.
Flying Training: You must log a minimum of 200 hours of flying time to be eligible for the Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
CPL Checkride: After completing the required flying hours and theoretical exams, you will undergo a CPL checkride where you will be tested on the aircraft.
Obtain CPL: After successfully completing the checkride and meeting all requirements, you will be awarded your CPL.
Step 7: Find Employment
After obtaining your CPL, you can begin applying for jobs with airlines or flying companies.
- Job Search: Apply directly to airlines or other aviation companies looking for pilots.
Conclusion
Becoming a pilot in India involves a series of steps, including meeting educational qualifications, passing medical exams, obtaining a Computer Number, choosing a training path, clearing theoretical exams, completing flight training, and obtaining your CPL. After this, you are ready to start your career as a commercial pilot.
For more details on choosing between the Cadet Program and the Conventional Program, check out our article: How to Choose Between Cadet and Conventional Programs.
Disclaimer: This article provides a general overview. For state-specific details, please refer to the official DGCA website and other relevant resources.
