Becoming a commercial pilot is a dream for many, basically a commercial pilot is a person who flies passenger or cargo aircraft for airlines and private companies etc. His duties include ensuring safe, smooth and on time flights. They manage all the activities from takeoff to landing such as checking weather reports, review flight plans and communicate with air traffic control while monitoring the aircrafts systems as well. Commercial pilot career combines skill, discipline and adventure together. Being a commercial pilot is considered very prestigious worldwide as it offers respect, excellent pay and the chance to travel the world. Commercial pilot is a very rewarding profession in terms of salaries as well and each flight brings pride, responsibility and the thrill of seeing the world from above the clouds.
In order to become a commercial pilot, the very basic & first step is to know and meet the eligibility criteria. Below is given all the necessary eligibility details for aspiring students:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Minimum 17 years at the time of joining pilot training. |
| Education | 10+2 with PCM from a recognized board or engineering diploma. |
| Alternative Option | Non-science students can appear for PCM subjects through NIOS or equivalent. |
| Medical Fitness | Valid DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate issued by an approved medical examiner. |
| Nationality | Residents of India and foreign nationals with valid visa. |
There are few steps a student has to follow in order to become a commercial pilot. Students need to follow a structured training path that includes both theoretical learning and practical flying experience.
After meeting the eligibility criteria students can appear for a scholarship based entrance exam to take admission in a top DGCA approved flying schools. Pilot CET provides admission in top flying institutes and provides scholarships based on students AIR.
After taking admission students start their journey by attending ground school classes where you learn important aviation modules like Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations and Aircraft Technical Knowledge etc. These subjects make the foundation for safe and efficient flying.
After completing the ground classes students start their flying sessions under the supervision of certified instructors. They have to complete at least 200 flying hours including solo flights, cross-country and night flying etc.
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) conducts exams for the modules students have studied during the ground classes. Students also need to clear the Radio Telephony Restricted (RTR) exam to legally communicate over aircraft radios.
Once student have completed their flying hours, passed all DGCA exams and met the medical fitness requirements then they will be issued a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). This licence allows students to work as a professional pilot with airlines, charter companies or private operators.
Usually the duration of CPL course is 18 months but it can affect due to different factors as well. On the other hand its very important to note that fee would vary depending on the institute, city and individual training pace.
| Country | Estimated CPL Cost (INR) | Scholarships |
|---|---|---|
| India | Rs 30-55 lakh | Merit-based scholarships, education loans |
| USA | Rs 61-78 lakh | FAA scholarships, private flight school aid |
| Canada | Rs 44-70 lakh | Scholarships via aviation organizations, flight school aid |
| Australia | Rs 57-66 lakh | Payment plans, government loans |
| UK | Rs 70-80 lakh | Scholarships from aviation bodies, flight school aid |
CPL provides rewarding career opportunities with highest paying salaries, below is given a table explaining Career Scope & Opportunities for CPL holders:
| Career Option | Role Description | Starting Salary (India) |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Pilot | Fly scheduled commercial passenger flights for airlines. | Rs 1.5-3 lakh per month |
| Cargo Pilot | Transport cargo and freight on commercial or private aircraft. | Rs 1-2.5 lakh per month |
| Charter Services Pilot | Fly private or chartered flights for individuals or businesses. | Rs 1-2 lakh per month |
| Corporate Aviation Pilot | Fly company-owned aircraft for business executives and VIPs. | Rs 1-2.5 lakh per month |
Commercial pilot profession offers exciting and rewarding career opportunities with high salary potential, travel opportunities and global exposure. Pilots enjoy a respected positions and the thrill of flying across different countries. Joining the CPL course through Pilot CET is a very smart choice because it helps students with scholarships, proper career guidance and admission to top DGCA-approved flying schools. It makes the journey to becoming a pilot more affordable and well-guided.