How To Become A Pilot After 12th In India : Qualification, Eligibility And Steps. -

Introduction

Becoming a pilot is a dream for many, but the journey requires dedication, time, and investment. This guide will walk you through the steps, costs, qualifications, and everything you need to know about pursuing a career as a pilot in India. Whether you’re fresh out of school or planning your career shift, this article answers the most common questions and provides a clear roadmap to becoming a pilot.

What to Do After 12th to Become a Pilot?

To become a pilot after the 12th, the most common path is enrolling in a flight training program. Here are the key steps:

Choose the Science Stream: After 10th grade, opt for the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as mandatory subjects. Scoring at least 50% marks in PCM is essential.
Medical Fitness: Obtain a Class 2 Medical Certificate and later a Class 1 Medical Certificate from a DGCA-authorized medical examiner to ensure you meet the physical requirements.
Apply for a Student Pilot License (SPL): Join a DGCA-approved flying school and pass the SPL exam.
Complete Flight Training: Pursue flight training for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

How Much Time Is Required to Become a Pilot in India?

The time required to become a pilot depends on the chosen path. On average:

CPL Training: Takes about 18-24 months to complete, including ground school and flying hours.
Total Duration: Including exams and licensing, it may take 2-3 years.

Cost to Become a Pilot in India

Becoming a pilot is a significant financial investment. The cost breakdown is as follows:

Flight Training: Ranges from ₹35-50 lakh for a CPL from a DGCA-approved flying school.
Additional Costs: Medical certificates, exam fees, uniforms, and living expenses add another ₹2-5 lakh.
Type Rating: After obtaining a CPL, type rating for specific aircraft costs an additional ₹20-30 lakh.

Which Stream Should You Choose to Become a Pilot?

Choosing the right educational path is crucial:

Stream: Science (PCM) in 10+2.
Alternative: If you don’t have PCM in 12th, you can take these subjects via open schooling to become eligible.

What Is the Salary of a Pilot?

The salary of a pilot varies based on experience, airline, and rank:

Freshers (First Officers): ₹1.5-3 lakh per month.
Experienced Pilots (Captains): ₹6-10 lakh per month.
International Airlines: Pilots can earn upwards of ₹20 lakh per month.

What Are the Qualifications to Become a Pilot?

Here are the essential qualifications:

Age: 17 years to start training; minimum 18 years to hold a CPL.
Education: 10+2 with PCM (minimum 50% marks).
Medical: Class 1 Medical Certificate.
English Proficiency: Good command of English is mandatory.

Which Exam Do You Need to Take for Pilot Training?

In India, aspiring pilots must clear the following:

DGCA Exams: Conducted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for obtaining CPL.
Subjects Covered: Air Navigation, Air Regulation, Meteorology, and Technical General.
Passing Score: A minimum of 70% in DGCA exams.
Entrance Exams: Some flying schools may have their own aptitude and skill tests.

Do 12th Marks Matter in Becoming a Pilot?

Yes, 12th marks matter if you’re pursuing a CPL directly after school. You need at least 50% in PCM to qualify for pilot training. However, entrance tests and medical fitness hold more weight than overall 12th-grade marks.

What Degree Is Best for a Pilot?

While a degree is not mandatory for CPL training, having a degree in aviation or aeronautical engineering can be beneficial. It also provides backup career options.

Eligibility :

What Is the Upper and Lower Age Limit to Become a Pilot?

Lower Age Limit: 17 years to start training; 18 years to obtain a CPL.
Upper Age Limit: There is no strict upper age limit, but airlines often prefer hiring pilots below 35 years for entry-level positions.

Height and Medical Requirements to Become a Pilot

Height: Minimum 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm); must fit comfortably in the aircraft cockpit.
Medical Fitness: Must pass the DGCA Class 1 Medical Exam, which checks vision (6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other, correctable to 6/6), hearing, cardiovascular health, and overall fitness.

How Long Is Pilot Training?

Pilot training includes:

Ground School: 4-6 months.
Flying Hours: 200 hours of flight training (mandatory for CPL).
Total Duration: 18-24 months, depending on weather, individual progress, and availability of instructors.

Can You Join DGCA After 12th?

Yes, you can start the process to become a pilot regulated by DGCA after 12th. Enroll in a DGCA-approved flight school and start training for your SPL and CPL.

Steps to Become a Pilot After Graduation

If you’re a graduate, follow these steps:

Meet the medical and educational requirements (PCM in 12th is mandatory).
Enroll in a flight school for CPL training.
Pass the DGCA exams and complete the required flight hours.

Types of Pilots

There are various types of pilots based on their roles and licenses:

Commercial Pilot: Operates passenger and cargo flights.
Private Pilot: Flies for personal or recreational purposes.
Airline Transport Pilot (ATP): Captains on large commercial aircraft.
Fighter Pilot: Operates in the armed forces.
Helicopter Pilot: Specialized in flying helicopters.
Cargo Pilot: Focuses on transporting goods.

Conclusion

Becoming a pilot in India is a challenging yet rewarding career path. By understanding the qualifications, costs, training duration, and various pilot roles, you can make an informed decision. With proper planning and dedication, you can soar high and turn your dream of flying into reality.

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How to Become a Pilot After 12th in India : Qualification, Eligibility And Steps.