CPL Aviation

Commercial pilot license is a professional aviation license which allows pilots to fly an aircraft and earn money by it. We can also define CPL as an advance stage of flying license after PPL. The training of CPL aviation license includes both theoretical & practical flying classes which helps building a strong knowledge and flying skills. CPL works as a milestone for pilots as it provides gateway to work in international aviation market. Without CPL one cannot work as a pilot in any airlines, cargo or charter companies. If you are dreaming of becoming a professional pilot and wants to work in the aviation industry then it helps turn your passion for flying into a very respected and rewarding career with international exposure and limitless opportunities to explore while earning a very good income.

Eligibility Criteria

To start the CPL aviation training students first have to meet the required eligibility criteria which is given below:

Eligibility Requirement

Details

Minimum Age

Must be at least 18 years old to apply for CPL.

Educational

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics

Or equivalent engineering polytechnic diploma

Non PCM background students can give PCM exam through NIOS

Medical

Valid DGCA Class 2 Medical Certificate issued by an approved medical examiner to ensure physical and mental fitness.

Language Proficiency

Must have proficiency in English for communication and exams.

Medical Certification

Before starting the CPL aviation training students have to qualify a Class 2 medical fitness test. This test ensures that the student is eligible for starting CPL training or not. Below is given the medical requirements needed:

  • Vision must be 6/6 (perfect eyesight) in both eyes.
  • No color blindness or visual defects.
  • Normal ECG to ensure a healthy heart.
  • Healthy ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) functions and normal hearing.
  • Lungs must be clear with no respiratory issues.
  • BMI (Body Mass Index) should be within the normal range.
  • Must be mentally and physically fit for flight duties.

Training Structure

CPL aviation training is majorly divided into 800 hours of ground +classes & 200 hours of flying training. During which student gain essential knowledge to start their professional flying aviation career. Below is given detailed information ground classes & flying training:

Ground Classes

Students first have to attend the ground classes in which they will get theoretical knowledge of all DGCA modules which later help students to fly aircraft. Below is given a table of modules:

Module

Key Focus Areas

Air Navigation

Route planning, maps, charts, navigation instruments, position fixing

Meteorology

Weather systems, clouds, wind, pressure and impact on flight

Air Regulations

Aviation laws, rules of the air, flight safety regulations

Technical - General

Basics of aircraft systems, engines, aerodynamics, performance limits

Technical - Specific

Detailed study of specific aircraft types, systems and limitations

RTR

ATC communication procedures, requires WPC RTR license

Highlights

  • Enrollment must be in a DGCA-approved Flying Training Organization.
  • Passing Marks: Minimum 70% is required in each DGCA module.
  • Attempts: Multiple attempts allowed (as per DGCA exam schedule).
  • No Attempt Limit: Unlimited attempts but clearing faster saves time and money of the student.
  • Validity: Passed theory papers are valid for 5 years for CPL issue.

Flying Training

Flying training is a very crucial part of CPL training as it allows students to implement their theoretical knowledge into practical flying. Practical flying training before starting actual flying helps students gain confidence, skill & number of flying hours required for actual flying. Below is given a breakdown table of flying hours:

Category

Details

Total Flying Hours

Minimum 200 hours required for CPL issue (as per DGCA).

Day Flying

Basic maneuvers, take-offs, landings and aircraft handling in daylight.

Night Flying

Training in low-visibility conditions, runway lighting systems and navigation.

Cross-country Flying

Long distance flights between airports to build navigation and planning skills.

Instrument Flying

Operating aircraft using only cockpit instruments (for poor visibility).

Dual Flights

Conducted with instructor onboard for guidance and demonstrations.

Solo Flights

Student flies independently to prove competence (includes long cross-country).

Simulator Training

Practice of emergency procedures, instrument flying and complex scenarios in a safe environment.

Licensing & Examinations

After completing the pilot license training students have to pass the DGCA examinations and flying test to get their pilot license. This whole process includes written exams, practical flying test with a certified examiner and verification of medical fitness etc. A successful completion will make the student eligible to become a commercial pilot operating within the DGCA regulations.

Stage

Description

Written Exams

Conducted by DGCA on ground modules: Air Regulations, Meteorology, Air Navigation, Aircraft Technical (General and Specific) and RTR. Tests theoretical knowledge.

Flying Test

Practical assessment by a DGCA-certified examiner covering takeoffs, landings, solo flying, cross-country navigation and basic instrument flying.

Licence Issuance

After passing written exams, flying test and holding a valid DGCA medical certificate, DGCA issues the CPL license allowing the holder to fly as professional pilot.

CPL Aviation Cost

Pursuing a CPL course is a huge investment at first but the returns a pilot receives is unmatchable as pilots enjoys one of the highest pay in the world. This profession not only provide good income but also a white collar, prestige rich job too. Below is given an estimate cost to purse CPL in India:

Expense Category

Details

Estimated Cost (INR)

Ground + Flying Training

Classes, simulator, flying hours, aircraft charges

45,00,000 - 55,00,000

Medical Tests

DGCA Class 1 Medical, renewals

50,000 - 1,00,000

DGCA Exams

Written exams and license issue fees

50,000 - 1,00,000

Accommodation and Food

Hostel, mess or rental expenses

2,00,000 - 5,00,000

Study Materials

Books, uniforms, headset, etc.

50,000 - 1,00,000

Miscellaneous

Insurance, travel, visa (if abroad) etc.

1,00,000 - 2,00,000

Career Opportunities

For CPL holders, the aviation sector in India and globally offers a high return on investment due to the growing demand for commercial pilots. With India being one of the fastest growing aviation markets and global airlines expanding fleets, CPL graduates have ample opportunities in domestic and international airlines, charter companies and training institutions etc as given below.

Category

Details

Indian Airlines

IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, AirAsia India, SpiceJet, Alliance Air etc.

International Airlines

Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Etihad Airways etc.

Private Jet Operators

Club One Air, JetSetGo, Capt. Gopi Aviation, Taj Air etc.

Placement Rates

DGCA-approved flying schools: 75%-90% placement Cadet Pilot Programs: near 100% placement

Type Rating

Type Rating on aircraft ( A320, B737) increases chances of airline placement for CPL holders with 200+ flying hours

CPL Aviation Jobs & Salary

Aviation industry is growing rapidly internationally and demand of pilot is very high due to increased air travel. After getting a CPL license pilots can start their career as commercial pilots and can earn handsome amount of salaries according to their post as well:

Job Profile

Salary in India (INR/Month)

International Salary (USD/Month)

Commercial Pilot (Fresh CPL Holder)

INR 1,50,000 - 3,00,000

USD 3,000 - 6,000

First Officer (Co-Pilot)

INR 3,00,000 - 5,00,000

USD 6,000 - 9,000

Captain (After Experience)

INR 6,00,000 - 10,00,000

USD 10,000 - 18,000

Charter Pilot

INR 2,00,000 - 4,00,000

USD 4,000 - 7,000

Cargo Pilot

INR 3,00,000 - 6,00,000

USD 6,000 - 10,000

Flight Instructor

INR 1,50,000 - 2,50,000

USD 3,000 - 6,000

Corporate Jet Pilot

INR 3,00,000 - 6,00,000

USD 6,000 - 10,000

Helicopter Pilot

INR 2,00,000 - 4,00,000

USD 4,000 - 8,000

Admission Process

To start the CPL training and take admission in a reputed institution students can opt for scholarship based entrance exam, details are given below:

  • Students can appear for entrance exams like Pilot CET or AME CET to get admission to top flying schools in India.
  • These exams evaluates the knowledge in subjects like Physics, Mathematics and basic aptitude etc.
  • These exams helps students to decide if they are ready for pilot training before investing in the course.
  • These entrance exams also provide often scholarships which help reducing the financial burden of CPL training.
  • Provides career guidance and provide admission reputed DGCA-approved flying training institutes.

As we have already discussed above that the CPL is a highly rewarding career that combines passion, adventure and responsibility. CPL provides excellent job opportunities with airlines, charter companies and cargo services, along with attractive salaries and travel benefits. Students who dream of exploring the skies and wants to build a successful career in aviation industry pursuing CPL is the key. Stay focused, work hard and let your passion for flying take you to new heights of international aviation industry.

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