PILOT CET 2025

The cost of obtaining a pilot’s licence (especially a Commercial Pilot License or CPL) in India typically ranges between INR 35 lakh to INR 50 lakh.This figure covers the full pathway of training exams and licence issuance though actual expenses can vary significantly depending on several factors.

Key cost components

Medical tests
Before flying you must clear aviation medical fitness checks. A Class 2 medical for student pilots costs around INR 3,000-INR 5,000 while a Class 1 medical (required for commercial flying) can range from INR 6,000-INR 10,000.
Ground school / theoretical training
Ground classes which include navigation meteorology air regulations technical knowledge and radio telephony procedures typically cost INR 1.5 lakh–INR 2.5 lakh, depending on the flying school or institute.
Flying training
This is the biggest chunk of the budget:
- Flying lessons in India cost about INR 8,000–INR 15,000 per hour.
- A full CPL program usually requires around 200 flight hours.
- So you’re looking at approximately INR 25 lakh to INR 40 lakh just for the flying component.
Costs increase if you do multi engine training or opt for more flying hours than the statutory minimum.
Miscellaneous expenses
On top of the core training costs you’ll need to budget for.
- DGCA exam fees (written exams plus skill tests) licence issuance charges
- Study materials charts books a professional headset and uniform
- Accommodation if you’re staying at or near the academy
- Travel living expenses and possibly simulator training
PilotCET estimates these extras can add another INR 50,000 to INR 2 lakh to your total training investment.

A few caveats

The INR 35–50 lakh estimate is a useful ballpark figure but actual costs can vary from one flying school or city to another. Institutions in smaller cities or with older fleets might charge less premium or newer academies may charge more.
Living expenses the type of aircraft used (single engine vs multi engine) the speed at which you complete training hours and whether you have to repeat exams or flights can all push costs up.
It’s wise to contact a few DGCA approved flying schools in India ask for their detailed fee breakup (ground school + flying hours + exam fees + living costs) and compare them before making a decision.
Many students finance pilot training through education loans scholarships or payment instalment plans to manage the high upfront investment.

budget for INR 35 lakh to INR 50 lakh in India for a CPL and expect to tailor that number up or down depending on your academy aircraft hours living costs and pace of training.

Key cost components

A few caveats

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What is the cost of a pilot’s licence in India?

Key cost components

A few caveats

Commercial Pilot License (4)

Commercial Helicopter Pilot License (2)

Private Helicopter Pilot License (3)

pilot (344)

PPL (1)

SPL (4)