What to do after 12th to become a pilot?

Many students wish to become a pilot after 12th. What to do after 12th to become a pilot is a common question among aspiring students. Pilot career is one of the best aviation career in terms of salary, prestige and global opportunities. After completing 12th with PCM, students can pursue various pilot licenses through a DGCA-approved flying school.

Going through the pilot training students have to complete multiple steps which includes theory classes, medical tests and flying hours etc. After qualifying the DGCA exams students earn their pilot license and they can apply for work in airlines. Pilots enjoy excellent pay, travel opportunities and a respected position in the aviation industry. For scholarships and admissions, students can also apply through Pilot CET.

Step 1: Choose Stream & Check Eligibility

To become a pilot after 12th student your first step is to check the eligibility criteria which depends on whether you want to become a Private or commercial pilot. PPL-(A/H) holders fly aircraft just for hobby or fun purpose while on the other hand CPL-(A/H) holders fly aircraft for commercial use and they earn money through. Students have to meet below given eligibility criteria to get the pilot license:

Step 2: Decide Your Path

After meeting the basic eligibility second step the next step is to choose the type of pilot license based on your career goals. There are two main paths: Private Pilot License (PPL-A/H) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL-A/H).

PPL (A/H)

This license is ideal for students who want to fly airplane or helicopters only as hobby, fun or privately. PPL requires fewer flying hours and lower training costs as compared to a CPL. With a PPL pilots can fly small aircraft for personal enjoyment but cannot earn a salary by flying commercially. Many students also start with a PPL to gain flying experience before moving on to CPL.

CPL (A/H)

CPL is for those who want to pursue a professional airline career. It involves more flying hours, stricter medical requirements and comprehensive exams. A CPL allows you to work as a professional pilot for airlines, charter companies or cargo operators. It is a long-term investment in your career and requires discipline, financial planning and dedication.

Step 3: Join a DGCA-Approved Flying School

After deciding your career path the next step is to enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school. These FTOs usually provide both ground classes & practical flying training and ensures that you meet the regulatory requirements. Many students begin with PPL training to gain flying experience before advancing to CPL which prepares them for a professional airline career.

Step 4: Complete Flying Hours & Theory Exams

Once you enrolled in a DGCA- approved flying school next step is to complete the required flying hours and pass the theory exams of pilot training. Below is given the theory modules and required flying hours for private and commercial pilot training:

Modules

PPL-(A/H) or CPL-(A/H) aspirants first have to study the 6 DGCA modules of pilot training. After qualifying these student can further pursue flying training. Below is given all 6 modules related to pilot training:

Flying Training

Flying training is a key part of becoming a pilot during this students learn to operate aircraft safely and efficiently. PPL- (A/H) focuses on recreational flying with fewer hours while on the other hand CPL- (A/H) prepares students for commercial flying with higher flying hours and skill tests:

PPL-(A/H)

CPL-(A/H)

Step- 5 Gain Ratings

After completing your pilot training and obtaining a PPL or CPL, the next step is to gain additional qualifications and real-world flying experience, which is crucial for a professional pilot career.

• Instrument Rating (IR): Allows a pilot to fly in low visibility or bad weather using only instruments. Its essential for airline operations.
• Multi-Engine Rating (ME): Permits a pilot to operate aircraft with more than one engine, which is required for commercial planes.
• Type Rating: Later, pilots may need specific training for different aircraft models used by airlines.

Step- 6 Examiznation & Licensing

After completing the pilot license training students have to pass the DGCA examinations and flying test to get their pilot license. This process includes written exams, practical flying test with a certified examiner and verification of medical fitness. A successful completion will make the student eligible to become an aircraft Pilot-in-Command (PIC) operating within the DGCA regulations.

Step- 7 Application & License Issuance

Students have to provide some documents prior to the application of the pilot license which mentioned the identity, educational background and medical fitness etc. Such documents guarantee the seamless process of application and assist the aviation authority in checking whether you are eligible to be trained and licensed and after checking everything DGCA issues the pilot license.

Below is given a table required to attach with the pilot license application:

Becoming a pilot after 12th is a structured journey that requires careful planning, dedication and proper training. After successfully completing it pilots gets international opportunities and a well-known white collar job. Aspiring pilots can also take admission through Pilot CET which provides scholarships and a clear path to start your aviation career. With the right guidance, commitment and practical experience students can turn their dream of flying into a rewarding international profession.