There is a myth amongst people that only a science background student can become a pilot but this is not the complete truth. After pursuing 12th standard with any stream weather it is arts or commerce, students can still become a pilot and build a successful career in aviation. With the right training, eligibility & passion commerce student can become pilot & learn to fly the aircraft and get a CPL. After completing 12th in Commerce stream you just need to study Physics and Math separately through NIOS or another recognized board. Once you meet the basic requirements, you can join a DGCA-approved flying school or apply through scholarship based exams like Pilot CET & AME CET to start your pilot training journey.
If you are a commerce student and want to earn money by flying aircraft then a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is the best choice for you. After getting a CPL you can work as a professional pilot for airlines, cargo or private flights etc. Below is given a quick overview of the CPL route for commerce students:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Route | Commercial Pilot License (CPL) |
Goal | Earn money as a professional pilot. |
How to Join | Entrance exams like Pilot CET or AME CET (with scholarships). |
Eligibility | 12th with Physics and Math (can add via NIOS). Minimum 17 years old. |
Medical | Must clear DGCA Class 1 Medical. |
Duration | 18-24 months with 200 flight hours. |
Career | Airline, charter or cargo pilot etc. |
Regardless of any stream students have to fulfill multiple eligibility requirements before joining the CPL course which are given below:
Criteria | Details |
---|---|
Educational Qualification | Class 12th with PCM / 3 Years engineering polytechnic Diploma |
Non-PCM Background | Commerce students can complete Physics and Math by NIOS or a recognized board. |
Minimum Marks | Minimum 50% aggregate in PCM |
Entrance Exams | Pilot CET, AME CET |
Age Requirement | Minimum 17 years at the time of admission (must be 18 years to get CPL) |
Medical Fitness | Must pass DGCA Class 2 and Class 1 medical examinations conducted by authorized medical examiners |
Eligibility for Physically Challenged | Flying requires full physical and mental fitness as per DGCA standards (no major physical disabilities allowed) |
Direct Admission | Based on merit or institute level entrance/interview (varies by school) |
If you are a commerce student planning to become a pilot it is very important to know the time taken and cost of the course. Usually CPL course takes around 18-24 months to complete with around INR 45-55 lakhs but scholarships and student loans are available to help manage the cost. This makes it easier for commerce students to pursue their dream of flying professionally.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Duration | 18-24 months |
Fees | INR 45-55 lakhs approx. |
Financial Help | Scholarships and student loans available for students |
CPL syllabus includes 800 hours of ground classes in which student learn about the 6 DGCA modules of pilot training and minimum 200 hours of flying training which helps gaining necessary skill require to fly an aircraft.
DGCA modules for pilot training provides the essential knowledge that can help pilots to fly safely, skillfully and professionally. Below is given a table of CPL modules:
Air Navigation |
---|
Air Regulations |
Aviation Meteorology |
Technical General |
Technical Specific |
Radio Telephony (RTR) |
This practical flying hours or training helps future pilot to gain confidence and also enhance the ability to fly an aircraft safely. Heres the minimum flying hours required for CPL training as per DGCA:
Flying Component | Minimum Hours |
---|---|
Solo Flying | 100 Hours |
Dual Flying (With Instructor) | 40-50 Hours |
Cross-Country Flying | 20 Hours |
Night Flying | 5 Hours |
Instrument Flying | 10 Hours |
General/Check/Practice | Balance Hours |
Total | 200 Hours |
Success as a commercial pilot requires more than just technical knowledge. Students must develop both personal and professional skills:
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 opens doors to an exciting and rewarding profession. Below is given the starting salary potential for CPL holders and what you can expect in this highflying career:
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 |
CPL offers exciting international career opportunities and pays well too. Salaries differs for each CPL holder and depends on the different factors like airline, aircraft, experience and even the country of employment. Entry level CPL holders usually start their careers as a flight instructors or in charter flying to build essential flying hours before transitioning to airline roles. Getting a type rating for commercial jets is necessary and greatly increases the employability and salary prospects which makes CPL a rewarding aviation career in India & abroad.
Getting a CPL not just require a good knowledge in PCM subjects but Passion, dedication and proper training is what really matter. CPL career welcomes anyone who is determined to become a pilot regardless of their 12th stream.If you are a commerce student dreaming of a flying career you can start your journey today by appearing for Pilot CET, AME CET (scholarship based exam) With the right preparation you can complete your training, earn your CPL, and take off into a professional aviation career worldwide.