Becoming a pilot is considered an illustrious career, not only in India but all over the world. But, like all good things, becoming a pilot also requires devotion, time, and monetary investment. In this piece, you will get to know about how to become a pilot, and also the perks of the same.
Here are the different pilot licenses prevalent in India
- Student Pilot License (SPL): This is attained at the absolute start of the flight training.
- Private Pilot License (PPL): It is generally obtained after a student pilot license and is given for flying small personal aircraft.
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): This is a license which allows for commercial flying, including for airlines.
- Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL): This is the highest level of pilot license and is important for people who want to become airline captains.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for Becoming a Pilot
- Age: The lowest age for an SPL is 16y; for a PPL, it is 17y; for a CPL, it is 18y; and for an ATPL, it is 21y.
- Education: A minimum of a 10th is required for SPL, while a 12th with Physics and Mathematics is necessary for PPL and CPL, and for ATPL, one should be a graduate with a CPL.
Medical Requirements
- Class 2 Medical: Begin with a Class 2 medical exam to get a PMR number.
- Class 1 Medical: Carry out a Class 1 medical exam conducted at DGCA-approved centers.
Flight Training
Enrolling in a DGCA-approved Flight Training Institute is essential:
- For a PPL, a minimum of 40-60 flight hours is required.
- For a CPL, there is a need for 250 hours, including 100 hours as pilot-in-command.
The training includes practical flying and theoretical classes covering aviation regulations, meteorology, and navigation.
Exams
- DGCA Theoretical Exams: These include Air Navigation, Meteorology, Regulations, Technical General, and Technical Specific.
- Flight Test: After the completion of practical training, one should pass a flight test.
What is the Cost Incurred in Becoming a Pilot?
Becoming a pilot can be expensive, with training costs ranging from ₹20 lakh to ₹50 lakh. To manage expenses effectively, it’s vital to explore scholarships, loans, and other funding options.
Salary Expectations
The approximate salary ranges of pilots in India are as follows:
- Commercial Pilots: ₹15 lakh to ₹80 lakh per annum.
- Airline Transport Pilots: ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh per annum.
- Flight Instructors: ₹5 lakh to ₹30 lakh per annum.
- Government Pilots (IAF): ₹4.5 lakh to ₹9 per annum.
Selecting a Flight School
Choosing a flight school is vital for your training. Visit the schools, evaluate their facilities, and talk to instructors. Ensure the school is DGCA-approved and has a rep in the industry.
ConclusionTo become a pilot in India is a challenging but satisfying journey. With precise training, you can turn your dream of flying into a reality. Keep enhancing the skills and knowledge required to become a pilot, and you will surely have a career to cherish.
