Commercial Pilot: Complete Guide to Training, Career and Salary

A commercial pilot is a licensed professional, who flies aircrafts and also responsible for the smooth flight journey. Commercial 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 are not limited to only flying but they also make planning for flight, checks weather reports, passenger safety and communicate with the ATC. This is a highly respected job profile and they work with the leading airlines worldwide which also provides them exciting travel opportunities. Commercial pilots play a very important role in the aviation industry as they connect people, businesses and nations 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 ?

CPL allows a pilot to fly aircraft professionally and earn money through commercial flying. It ensures that the pilot has the required skills and training to operate flights domestic & international flights safely. The main difference between a Private Pilot License and a CPL is that a PPL is for personal or recreational flying, while a CPL allows a pilot to fly commercially and get paid.

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.

Step-by-Step Process to Become a Commercial Pilot

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: Begin 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 essential as it provides the knowledge needed for safe and efficient flying.

Step 6: Start 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
                            CPL-(H): Helicopters like Robinson R44, Bell 206
• 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 flight training students have to pass the DGCA exams to get a CPL. This procedure includes written tests of plot training modules like air navigation, meteorology etc and practical flying skill tests to assess 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

Career Opportunities After 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 :

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 such as 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:

Growth and Life as a Pilot

• High demand for pilots: With growing air travel in India and abroad, there is a huge demand for skilled pilots globally.
• Secure and global career: Commercial pilots can work in domestic airlines, international carriers or private charter services which provides secure global career opportunities.
• Career advancement: Pilots can progress to Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) roles & they can become captains with higher responsibilities and pay.
• Exciting lifestyle: Travel to new cities and countries, enjoy layovers, flexible schedules and airline perks like discounted flights.
• Challenges & responsibility: Irregular hours, long-haul flights and the safety of passengers make it a high-responsibility role.
• Skill development: Continuous learning through simulator sessions, advanced courses and adherence to aviation regulations is essential.
• Networking & exposure: Pilots meet professionals worldwide, gaining exposure to international aviation standards and culture.
• Respect: Being a pilot is a respected profession, admired for skill, discipline and expertise.
• Opportunity for growth: Specialized training, type ratings and experience open doors to senior positions, training roles or airline management opportunities.