Step-by-Step: Get Your DGCA CPL in India
Meet Basic Requirements
Complete 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics. Minimum age 17 years. Get Class 1 medical certificate from DGCA-approved doctors.
Get DGCA Computer Number
Apply online for DGCA Computer Number - your unique aviation ID. Required for all training and examinations in India.
Choose Your License Type
Decide between PPL (Private), CPL (Commercial), or ATPL (Airline Transport). CPL is most common for career pilots.
Select Flying School
Choose DGCA-approved flying school. Compare costs (₹35-55L for CPL), facilities, aircraft fleet, and instructor quality.
Complete Ground School
Study aviation theory: meteorology, navigation, air law, aircraft systems. Pass DGCA written exams before flying.
Flight Training
Log minimum 200 flying hours for CPL. Includes solo flights, cross-country navigation, night flying, and instrument training.
Pass Practical Exams
Clear DGCA practical tests: oral exams, flight tests, and skill assessments. Get your Commercial Pilot License.
Build Flight Hours
Start as flight instructor or charter pilot to build experience. Most airlines require 1000+ hours for hiring.
Join Airlines
Apply to airlines, cargo operators, or corporate aviation. Consider Type Rating courses for specific aircraft.
DGCA CPL Eligibility & Exams
Eligibility (India)
- 10+2 with Physics & Math (or NIOS equivalent)
- Minimum age 17 for training, 18 for CPL issue
- DGCA Class 1 Medical (initial/renewal)
- DGCA Computer Number (mandatory for exams)
DGCA Theory Papers
- Air Regulations
- Aviation Meteorology
- Air Navigation
- Technical General
- RTR(A) by DGCA (separate)
Myths vs Reality
MYTH
"Pilot jobs are guaranteed."
REALITY
Market fluctuates—always have backup plans and upskill regularly.
MYTH
"Foreign-trained pilots get jobs easier."
REALITY
Indian airlines prioritize DGCA compliance, your skills matter most.
MYTH
"Only affluent families produce pilots."
REALITY
With loans and scholarships, diverse aspirants are entering the field.
MYTH
"You need perfect vision to be a pilot."
REALITY
Correctable vision is acceptable. Many pilots wear glasses or contacts.
MYTH
"Pilots only work for airlines."
REALITY
Pilots work in corporate aviation, cargo, charter, government, and training roles.
ROI Comparison: Piloting vs Other Professions
Initial Investment Comparison
Investment required to start career (in ₹ Lakhs)
Peak Monthly Salary Comparison
Expected peak monthly salary (in ₹ Thousands/month)
Pilot
High initial investment, break-even in 4–6 years post-employment, top-end salaries (INR 2–4 lakhs/month in airlines).
Engineering/IT
Lower entry investment, but slower initial salary growth.
Medical (Doctor)
Comparable cost/training length, but longer to reach peak salary/ROI.
CA/Business
Less upfront investment, steady salary curve, less volatility.
Parent & Student Guidance
Emotional Support Matters
Pilot training can be rigorous, lonely, and stressful. A supportive family boosts success.
Understand the Risks
Flying is safe, but the profession can involve relocations, odd hours, unpredictable income phases.
Research Together
Visit schools, talk to alumni, verify facilities, speak directly to instructors.
Career Pathways
Airlines, charter ops, corporate/VIP aviation, cargo roles, government flying (BSF, Air Force), aviation management.
Top DGCA-Approved & compliant Flying Schools in India
CAE Gondia, Maharashtra
Gondia, MaharashtraPremier airline ties, largest modern fleet, excellent placement record
Chimes Aviation Academy
Madhya PradeshLarge airspace, structured syllabus, experienced instructors
Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi
Amethi, Uttar PradeshIndia's oldest, merit-based selection, rigorous training
Bombay Flying Club
Mumbai, MaharashtraUrban location, strong exam prep, corporate connections
Gujarat Flying Club
Ahmedabad, GujaratBudget-friendly, instructor focus, good weather
Redbird Flight Training Academy
Baramati, MaharashtraModern facilities, simulator training, airline partnerships
Why Choose Aviation as Your Career Path?
Corporate Aviation Boom
Top companies like Reliance, Adani, Tata, and JSW have their own private jets and helicopters. They're hiring pilots directly for executive transport and corporate operations.
Perks of Being a Pilot
Ready to Become a Pilot?
Your journey to the skies starts with the right information and the right flying school. Take the first step towards your aviation career today.