In India the duration of pilot training varies based on the type of license pursued and individual circumstances. Typically the journey to becoming a commercial pilot spans approximately 18 to 24 months. This timeframe encompasses both ground school and flight training including the mandatory 200 flying hours required for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) as per Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) standards.
Factors Influencing Training Duration
Several elements can influence the overall duration of pilot training:
Weather Conditions: Adverse weather can lead to flight cancellations or delays extending the training period.
Aircraft Availability: Limited access to training aircraft can slow progress.
Student's Commitment: A dedicated and consistent approach can expedite the completion of training.
Institutional Schedules: The frequency of available flight slots and ground school sessions can impact the timeline.
Course Breakdown
Ground School: This phase typically lasts between 3 to 6 months and covers essential subjects such as air navigation, meteorology, air regulations and aircraft technical knowledge.
Flight Training: Following ground school students engage in practical flight training accumulating the required flying hours.
Accelerated Training Options
For individuals who have already obtained a Private Pilot License (PPL) the training duration for a CPL can be reduced to approximately 12 to 15 months, as some flying hours may be credited towards the new license.
While the standard pilot training duration in India is around 18 to 24 months various factors can influence this timeline. Aspiring pilots should plan accordingly, considering potential delays and the commitment required to complete the training successfully.