Commercial Aircraft Pilot

Commercial aircraft pilot is a licensed person, who flies aircrafts and also responsible for the smooth flight journey around the world. Commercial aircraft pilots usually fly commercial aircrafts like passenger flights, cargo transport or charter services and ensures the safety and security of the flight as they are highly trained to fly the modern aircrafts. They also make planning for flight, checks weather reports, passenger safety and communicate with the ATC. This is a highly respected, white collar job profile working with the leading airlines worldwide which also provides them exciting travel opportunities. Commercial aircraft pilots play a very important role in the aviation industry as they connect people, businesses and countries together. They ensure safe and timely flight operations & helps airlines to maintain smooth schedules and reliable global air transport services all around the world.

What is a Commercial Pilot License?

Commercial pilot license is required a pilot to fly aircraft professionally and earn money through commercial flying. It ensures that the commercial aircraft pilot has the required skills and training to operate flights domestic & international flights safely. The major difference between having a Private Pilot License and a CPL is that a PPL is for personal or recreational flying so you cant earn income through it, while on the other hand CPL allows a pilot to fly commercially and get paid also.

There are two types of CPL:

1. CPL (A) - Aeroplanes: Allows the holder to operate fixed-wing aircraft commercially.
2. CPL (H) - Helicopters: Allows the holder to operate helicopters commercially.

Duration of CPL Training

Step-by-Step Process to Become a Commercial aircraft pilot

Students have to follow certain steps to become a commercial aircraft pilot which are given below:

Step 1: Complete 10+2 with Science Stream

• Subjects: Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics
• Minimum 50% marks required
• Non-science students can qualify Physics & Mathematics through NIOS or open school

Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Criteria

• Minimum age: 17 years
• Must have passed 10+2 with PCM
• Hold a DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate
• Must be an Indian citizen (for training in India) or hold a valid visa for international students.

Step 3: Clear Entrance Exam

• 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.

Step 4: Enroll in a DGCA-Approved Flying School

After meeting the eligibility and clearing exams, the next step is to decide whether you want to join a CPL-(A) training or CPL-(H). After that you can select DGCA-approved flying school for CPL training to take admission. These institutes provide both ground and flying training under certified instructors. Choosing an approved school ensures quality education, proper flying hours and eligibility for a valid Commercial Pilot License in India.

Step 5: Start Ground Classes

Usually students have to attend 800 hours of ground classes which covers six key modules of pilot training:

1. Air Regulations
2. Aviation Meteorology
3. Air Navigation
4. Technical General
5. Technical Specific
6. RTR

The study of these modules training is very important as it provides the knowledge needed for safe and efficient flying.

Step 6: Begin Flying Training

Begin practical flying training after completing ground classes.

• Flying hours required: Minimum 200 hours for CPL-(A) and 150 hours for CPL-(H).
• Training aircraft: CPL-(A): Small planes like Cessna 172S, C-152 etc. CPL-(H): Helicopters like Robinson R44, Bell 206 etc.
• Simulator sessions: Practice emergency scenarios safely.
• Cross-country flights: Gain experience in navigation and real-world flying conditions.
• Skill development: Builds confidence and professional flying abilities.

Step 7: Pass DGCA Examinations

After completing flying training students have to pass the DGCA exams to get a CPL. This procedure includes written tests of pilot training modules like air navigation, meteorology etc and practical flying skill tests to test the handling and decision-making ability. Successfully clearing these exams proves that the pilot has the knowledge, skills and experience required to operate aircraft safely and professionally.

Step 8: Get the CPL

• Submit an application to DGCA after clearing all exams and completing training
• Provide required documents such as 10+2 certificate, medical certificate, logbook and exam results
• Undergo verification and approval by DGCA
• After getting clearance, students receive their CPL
• CPL is valid for 5 years and can be renewed after medical and regulatory checks

Pilot Career Options Post-CPL

After getting CPL there are so many companies which provide jobs for CPL holder. CPL holders can explore a wide range of career opportunities across airlines, cargo companies, private operators, government agencies and training institutions etc. Below is given a table of top recruiters for CPL holders:

Skills Required

• Communication & Decision-Making: Clear communication and quick decision making is necessary as pilot have to communicate with the ATC and handle the emergency situations.
• Leadership & Teamwork: Pilots leads the crew and working staff so it is essential for him to maintain the teamwork so the journey will complete smoothly.
• Technical Knowledge: He should have great understanding of aircraft systems and navigation etc.
• Emotional Stability: Staying calm under pressure is important in any situation.
• Situational Awareness: Staying focused and monitoring environment and aircraft status to prevent any emergencies.
• Problem-Solving: Pilot must be good at solving problems & handling emergencies efficiently.
• Adaptability: He should be adjusting to changing conditions.
• Attention to Detail: Pilots have to be very attentive & follow the safety protocols.
• Time Management: Managing flights and schedules efficiently.

Average CPL Salary per Month

Average monthly salary for CPL holders working in India and abroad varies depending on the country, airline policies, type of aircraft flown and cost of living etc. Countries in Middle East and Asia Pacific are associated with higher pay packages and other benefits like housing and tax exemptions whereas the USA and UK are associated with competitive salaries and career advancement. Below is given a table of average CPL monthly salaries:

Top Airlines Hiring Commercial Pilots

Various top domestic and international airlines provide pilots very amazing job opportunities with high salary packages and extra benefits. Some of the airlines names are given below:

Advantages vs Challenges of a Pilot Career

Having a career as commercial aircraft pilot has a lots of advantages & challenges which makes this career rewarding exciting but at the same time challenging as well. The table below highlights the main advantages and challenges of this profession.

Becoming a commercial aircraft pilot is a highly rewarding career in terms of salary, global exposure, career growth and the prestige of flying professionally around the world. It is a combination of adventure and responsibility that makes it suitable to individuals who love the aviation industry. Pilot CET allows future pilots to access CPL course which enables them to get admission in DGCA approved institute and financial assistance (scholarship) so that they can have quality training experience and easy route to successful aviation career in the world.