CPL holder meaning refers to a trained professional who has earned the license to fly a commercial aircraft, carry passengers and receive income through it. CPL license provides pilot the legal authority to work as a paid pilot for airlines, charter services or cargo operations.
Holding a CPL is a significant achievement in the aviation industry because it marks the transition from being a student pilot to a professional aviator. It opens doors to various career paths such as airline pilot, flight instructor or corporate pilot making it one of the most important qualifications for anyone pursuing a career in aviation.
To get a CPL in India, students need to fulfill some requirements given by DCGA which includes age, education, medical, language etc. Detailed information about CPL requirements are given below:
|
Requirement |
Details |
|
Age |
Minimum 18 years old to apply for a CPL. |
|
Education |
Must have passed 10+2 with PCM from a recognized board or equivalent |
|
Medical Fitness |
Must clear DGCA Class 1 Medical Examination |
|
Nationality |
Open to Indian and foreign nationals (as per DGCA norms) |
|
Language Proficiency |
Must have proficiency in English (ICAO Level 4 or higher) for communication and exams |
|
Flying Hours |
Must complete minimum 200 hours of flying training under an approved flying school |
|
DGCA Exams |
Must pass DGCA written and oral exams on air regulations, navigation, meteorology and technical subjects |
Getting a CPL license require rigorous Commercial pilot training which is divided into 3 stages Theoretical, flying & simulator training. Below is given detailed information of all 3 stages:
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
Flying training is a very crucial part of CPL training as it allows students to turn 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 |
100-120 hours basic maneuvers, take-offs, landings and aircraft handling in daylight. |
|
Night Flying |
5-10 hours training in low-visibility conditions, runway lighting systems and navigation. |
|
Cross-country Flying |
50 hours long distance flights between airports to build navigation and planning skills. |
|
Instrument Flying |
20 hours operating aircraft using only cockpit instruments (for poor visibility). |
|
Dual Flights |
15 hours conducted with instructor onboard for guidance and demonstrations. |
|
Solo Flights |
60-70 hours student flies independently to prove competence. |
|
Simulator Training |
5 hours practice of emergency procedures, instrument flying and complex scenarios in a safe environment. |
After completing the pilot license training students have to pass the DGCA examinations and flying test to get their commercial pilot license. This process includes written exams, practical flying test with a certified examiner and verification of medical fitness. A successful completion will make the student eligible to become a CPL holder aircraft Pilot-in-Command (PIC) operating within the DGCA regulations.
After completing CPL training students get rewarding career opportunities with highest paying salaries, below is given a table explaining Opportunities for CPL holders:
|
Career Option |
Role Description |
Starting Salary (India) |
|
Airline Pilot |
Fly scheduled commercial passenger flights for airlines. |
Rs 1.5-3 lakh per month |
|
Cargo Pilot |
Transport cargo and freight on commercial or private aircraft. |
Rs 1-2.5 lakh per month |
|
Charter Services Pilot |
Fly private or chartered flights for individuals or businesses. |
Rs 1-2 lakh per month |
|
Corporate Aviation Pilot |
Fly company-owned aircraft for business executives and VIPs. |
Rs 1-2.5 lakh per month |
CPL holders play an important role in global air transport by ensuring safe and efficient flights. CPL license opens the door to a diverse professional pilot career which allows individuals to work with one of the highest paying airlines, cargo companies or private operators. We can say that the CPL opens the door for commercial pilots to a very rewarding aviation career. And getting the CPL is the first major step toward becoming a skilled and recognized commercial pilot.
It means someone who has earned a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). With this license they can fly commercial aircraft and get paid for it.
Because as a CPL holder you move from being a student pilot to a professional pilot. You can apply for airlines charter flights or cargo operations.
After you complete all training stages pass the exams fulfill age/education/medical requirements and get your license issued by the aviation authority.
You do ground theory flying training (minimum required hours) and pass the written and flying tests. Then you get your license and become a CPL holder.
Yes. As a CPL holder you can also become a flight instructor corporate pilot or charter pilot if you wish. The license gives you flexibility.