There are different types of pilot licenses which allows a person or aspiring pilot official authority to fly an aircraft. Regulatory bodies like DGCA (India), FAA (USA) or EASA (Europe) issue these different types of pilot licenses, after gaining one a person can act as a Pilot-in-command. Each license has their own privileges and limitations. Some people want to learn flying as fun or hobby but on the other hand some of them want to make their career in flying.

Each pilot license type comes with its own set of rules, training hours & eligibility requirements. For example a Student Pilot License (SPL) needs very few flying hours but on the other hand to get a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) students have to gain more flying hours or training. This means the pilot license you choose will decide how long your training period will be.

List of All Types of Pilot Licenses

There are different pilot licenses for various flying goals. Below is given all details about all types of pilot licenses:

1. Student Pilot Licence (SPL)

• SPL (A) -(Aeroplane)
• SPL (H) - (Helicopter)

2. Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

• PPL (A) - (Aeroplane)
• PPL (H) - (Helicopter)

3. Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

• CPL (A)- (Aeroplane) + RTR Licence required
• CPL (H)- (Aeroplane) + RTR Licence required

4. Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL)

• ATPL (A)- (Aeroplane)  + RTR Licence required
• ATPL (H)- (Aeroplane) + RTR Licence required

1. SPL (Student Pilot License)

SPL is basically a beginner or learning license, which students have to gain in order to start their flying training under supervision of an instructor. It lets student learn how to fly an aircraft safely. Students cannot use this for commercial flying rather than that, it mainly focuses on building basic skills like takeoff, navigation, landing & understanding all the controls of an aircraft. SPL is first step for anyone who wants to become a professional pilot as it allows students to gain hands on experience in the air while learning aviation rules and safety procedures.

• SPL (A) - Airplane: Student Pilot License for flying airplanes. It is the first step to becoming an airplane pilot.
• SPL (H) - Helicopter: Student Pilot License for flying helicopters. It is the first step to becoming a helicopter pilot.

2. PPL (Private Pilot License)

PPL allows students to fly for fun purpose or as a hobby, students cannot use PPL license for commercial flying and earn money. SPL allows pilots to carry passengers but not for commercial payment. PPL helps students with flying, navigation & decision making skills. We can say that it is a step toward a professional pilot career which provides more freedom in the air while still following aviation safety rules set by DGCA.

• PPL (A) - Airplane: Needed to fly small private airplanes for personal or recreational use.
• PPL (H) - Helicopter: Needed to fly small private helicopters for personal or recreational use.

3. CPL (Commercial Pilot License)

CPL allows students to carry passengers and fly aircrafts commercially, students can earn good amount of money through flying globally. Commercial Pilot License mainly focuses on advanced flying skills, navigation and handling different flying situations safely. After getting CPL students can get work in charter companies, commercial airlines, cargo or other aviation roles. CPL license is must who aim to build career as a professional pilot.

• CPL (A) - Airplane: Allows you to work as a commercial pilot for fixed-wing aircraft (airplanes). Its commonly pursued by those who want to fly for airlines or charter services.
• CPL (H) - Helicopter: Allows you to work as a commercial pilot for rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters). Its often chosen by those aiming for roles in air ambulance, search and rescue, offshore operations or VIP transport.

4. ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License)

ATPL allows pilots to fly aircrafts as captains for commercial airlines they usually command large aircraft. ATPL mainly focuses on advanced flying, leadership and decision making skills which includes managing complex flight operations. ATPL is the highest level of pilot certification & is very important for those wanting a stable and long term career as an airline captain.

• ATPL (A) - Airplane: Needed to fixed-wing aircraft (airplanes) and is the highest level of aircraft pilot certification, allowing the holder to act as a Pilot-in-Command (Captain) on multi-crew airplanes.
• ATPL (H) - Helicopter: Needed to helicopters and grants the holder authority to act as a Pilot-in-Command on multi-crew helicopters, usually required for commercial airline or charter operations.

Qualification Requirement

To become a pilot, students need the right education, certifications and approvals. DGCA approval is required to fly legally in India and an RTR license is needed to communicate with air traffic control. Table below shows the qualifications for SPL, PPL, CPL and ATPL licenses:

Job Scope

Each type of pilot license provide different opportunities & jobs. Higher licenses give more earning potential and advanced roles. Below is a quick comparison of job scope & salary for each licence type:

Other Perks

• Prestige & Status: Pilots enjoy high respect, recognition and the reputation of a skilled, adventurous profession.
• Global Job Opportunities: CPL and ATPL licenses open doors to airlines worldwide, making migration easier.
• High Income Potential: Commercial pilots earn top salaries and ATPL holders can become captains with very high pay.
• Travel Perks: Pilots often get free or discounted air tickets for themselves and family along with global travel exposure.
• Aviation Networking: Access to a strong professional network that helps in career growth, training and management roles.
• Career Flexibility: Opportunities in charter, cargo, corporate jets, bush flying and later roles like instructor or safety inspector.
• Job Security: Rising global demand ensures long-term stability and continuous career opportunities.
• Freedom & Adventure: PPL holders can fly for leisure anytime, enjoying unmatched excitement.
• Post-Retirement Roles: Retired pilots can work as trainers, examiners or aviation consultants.
• Tax Benefits: In some countries, pilots receive deductions on aviation training or travel-related expenses.

Take time & choose wisely, which pilot you exactly want to pursue, compare it with your goals then apply for the same. If you have any doubt or query regarding pilot course or training, you can put a query on www.pilotcet.com.