Yes flying hours are absolutely required before obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). In India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) mandates a minimum of 200 flight hours as part of the eligibility criteria for CPL These hours typically include time spent as Pilot in Command (PIC) cross country flying instrument flying and night flying. For example a common breakdown includes around 100 hours as PIC cross country flights night training and instrument instruction Some schools also offer simulator training as part of meeting this requirement
Beyond the India specific requirements international standards align with this structure the ICAO framework and regulations in countries like those in Europe and Canada also emphasize similar flight hour prerequisites including PIC cross country and instrument time Therefore regardless of the training path you choose modular or integrated accumulating these mandatory flight hours is essential before you're eligible for a CPL.
Key Takeaways:
Yes flying hours are mandatory before obtaining a CPL.
Minimum requirement in India: 200 flight hours including categories like PIC cross country night and instrument flying.
Consistency globally: Many aviation authorities around the world impose similar flight experience requirements.