What should I do after 12th to become a pilot?

Students often ask this question "What should I do after 12th to become a pilot" as there is a myth amongst people that only a science background student can become a pilot. But this is not the whole truth because after completing the 12th standard with any stream weather it is arts or commerce, students can still become a pilot anyway and build a successful aviation career. Pilots enjoy excellent pay, travel opportunities and a respected position in the aviation industry. For scholarships and admissions, students can also apply through Pilot CET.

Going through the pilot training students have to complete multiple steps which like theory classes, medical tests and flying hours etc & all of these steps are given below in detail. After qualifying the DGCA exams students earn their pilot license and they can apply for work in airlines.

Step 1: Choose Stream & Check Eligibility

To become a pilot after 12th student your first step is to check the eligibility criteria which depends on whether you want to pursue PPL-(Aeroplane/Helicopter) or CPL-( Aeroplane/Helicopter).Students have to meet below given eligibility criteria to get their dream pilot license:

Step 2: Decide Your Path

After knowing the basic eligibility second step is to choose the type of pilot license you will study for based on your career goals. There are two main paths: Private Pilot License (PPL-A/H) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL-A/H) given below

Step 3: Entrance Exam

After meeting all the eligibility criteria students can appear for the entrance exams like Pilot CET, AME CET to get admission to top DGCA approved flying schools in India. These exams evaluate the knowledge of students in subjects like physics, Chemistry and mathematics etc which helps students to understand if currently they are ready to start the pilot training or not before investing for the course. Training for CPL is a huge investment but these exams also offers scholarships that helps in reducing the financial burden of pilot training. They also provides better career guidance and increases the chances of joining reputed DGCA-approved institutes for CPL.

Step 4: Join a DGCA-Approved Flying School

After deciding your career path the next step is to enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school. These FTOs usually provide both ground classes & practical flying training and ensures that you meet the all regulatory requirements. Many students begin with PPL training to gain flying experience before advancing to CPL which prepares them for a professional airline career.

Step 5: Complete Flying Hours & Theory Exams

Once you enrolled in a DGCA- approved flying school next step is to complete the required flying hours and pass the theory exams of pilot training. Below is given the theory modules and required flying hours for private and commercial pilot training:

Modules

PPL-(A/H) or CPL-(A/H) candidates first have to study the 6 DGCA modules of pilot training. After qualifying these student can further pursue flying training. Below is given all 6 modules related to pilot training:

Flying Training

Flying training is a key part of becoming a pilot during this students learn to operate aircraft safely and efficiently. PPL- (A/H) focuses on recreational flying with fewer hours while on the other hand CPL- (A/H) prepares students for commercial flying with higher flying hours and skill tests:

PPL-(A/H)

CPL-(A/H)

Step 6: Gain Ratings

After completing your pilot training and obtaining a PPL or CPL, the next step is to gain additional qualifications and real-world flying experience, which is crucial for a professional pilot career.

• Instrument Rating (IR): Allows a pilot to fly in low visibility or bad weather using only instruments. It's essential for airline operations.
• Multi-Engine Rating (ME): Permits a pilot to operate aircraft with more than one engine, which is required for commercial planes.
• Type Rating: Later, pilots may need specific training for different aircraft models used by airlines.

Step 7: Examination & Licensing

After completing the pilot license training students have to pass the DGCA examinations and flying test to get their 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 an aircraft Pilot-in-Command (PIC) operating within the DGCA regulations.

Step 8: Application & License Issuance

Students have to provide some documents together with the application of the pilot license which mentioned the identity, educational background and medical fitness etc. Such documents guarantee the seamless process of application and assist the aviation authority in checking whether you are eligible to be trained and licensed and after checking everything DGCA issues the pilot license.

Below is given a table required to attach with the pilot license application:

As we have discussed above becoming a pilot after 12th is a step by step structured journey which requires careful planning, dedication and proper training to complete. After successfully completing it pilots gets international work opportunities and a well-known white collar job with full of rewards. If you are someone looking forward to make a career in pilot profession then you can take admission through Pilot CET which provides scholarships and a clear path to start your global aviation career. Visit www.pilotcet.com for more information.