The pilot course syllabus is largely standardized across India, adhering to the guidelines set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This ensures consistency in the foundational knowledge and skills imparted to all aspiring pilots. However, while the core subjects remain the same, the depth of instruction and the number of flying hours can vary between different training institutions.
At the heart of the syllabus are six essential modules:
Air Navigation: Covers topics like latitude, longitude, compass usage, and navigation aids, ensuring pilots can plan and execute flights accurately.
Aviation Meteorology: Focuses on understanding weather patterns, interpreting meteorological data, and making informed decisions based on weather conditions.
Air Regulations: Imparts knowledge of aviation laws, rules, and procedures, ensuring pilots operate within legal frameworks.
Technical General: Provides a broad understanding of aircraft systems, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Technical Specific: Delves deeper into the specifics of the aircraft type being flown, covering system operations and limitations.
Radio Telephony: Teaches effective communication techniques, including phonetic alphabet usage and standard radio procedures.
In addition to these ground training modules, practical flying training is a crucial component. The number of flying hours required varies based on the type of license:
Student Pilot License (SPL): Typically involves 10–15 hours of basic flying.
Private Pilot License (PPL): Requires a minimum of 40 hours, including dual instruction, solo, and cross-country flights.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL): Demands around 200 hours of flying, encompassing various flight types and conditions.
While the syllabus provides a structured framework, individual institutions may offer additional resources such as mock tests, online tutorials, and peer learning groups to enhance the learning experience. It's advisable for prospective students to consult with training providers to understand the specific offerings and support systems in place.