Aviation has always fascinated people around the world, and in India, the dream of flying high as a pilot is growing rapidly. Every year, thousands of students aspire to become commercial pilots or join the Indian Air Force to live their dream of flying. However, the journey is not simple—it requires dedication, physical fitness, mental strength, academic qualifications, and proper training.
If you are one of those aspirants searching for how to be a pilot in India, this detailed guide will help you understand the process, eligibility criteria, exams, training institutes, costs, and career opportunities in deta
How to Be a Pilot in India
(2025) | Eligibility, Exams, Fees & Salary
Types of Pilots in India
Before knowing how to be a pilot in India, it is essential to understand the different types of pilots.
Commercial Pilot (Civil Aviation)
A commercial pilot is licensed to fly passenger aircraft, cargo planes, or charter flights. They work with private airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and international airlines after getting proper training and license.
Fighter Pilot (Indian Air Force)
A fighter pilot serves in the Indian Air Force (IAF). They undergo specialized defense training through NDA (National Defence Academy), AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test), or CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam. Their role is not only flying but also defending the nation.
Private Pilot
Private pilots can fly small aircraft for personal use or training but cannot fly commercial flights. This is usually for those who pursue flying as a hobby.
Eligibility Criteria to Become a Pilot in India
To pursue your dream of becoming a pilot, you must meet certain eligibility requirements.
Academic Qualification
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Minimum qualification: 10+2 (Science stream) with Physics and Mathematics.
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Students must have at least 50% marks (some institutes require 60%).
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Candidates from non-science backgrounds can appear for exams like NIOS or take additional subjects like Physics and Maths through recognized boards.
Age Limit
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Minimum age: 17 years (to start training).
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Maximum age: 32 years (for most commercial pilot training programs).
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For Indian Air Force: Usually 16.5 to 24 years depending on the entry scheme.
Medical Fitness
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Candidates must pass Class 1 Medical Examination conducted by DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation).
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Good eyesight (6/6 vision), physical fitness, and no history of serious medical issues are mandatory.
Pathways to Become a Pilot in India
There are two main pathways for aspirants searching how to be a pilot in India.
Civil Aviation Path (Commercial Pilot)
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Pass 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
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Clear DGCA Class 2 and then Class 1 medical fitness test.
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Enroll in a DGCA-approved Flying School.
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Complete minimum 200 hours of flying.
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Pass the Commercial Pilot License (CPL) exams.
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Apply for jobs with airlines.
Indian Air Force Path (Defense Pilot)
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Clear NDA exam after 10+2 (for men) or apply via AFCAT/CDS after graduation (for both men and women).
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Pass rigorous physical and psychological tests.
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Get training at the Air Force Academy (Hyderabad).
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Earn your pilot wings and serve as a defense pilot.
Entrance Exams for Pilot Training in India
For Commercial Pilot Training
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No national-level exam is required; selection is based on Class 12 marks and DGCA medical fitness.
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However, individual flying schools may conduct aptitude and English tests.
For Indian Air Force
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NDA Exam (after 12th, conducted by UPSC).
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AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) after graduation.
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CDS Exam (Combined Defence Services) after graduation.
Pilot Training Institutes in India
India has many reputed DGCA-approved flying schools. Some of the top institutes include:
Top DGCA-Approved Flying Schools
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Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGIA), Jaipur
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Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics, Mumbai
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Bharat Flying Club, Uttar Pradesh
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Orient Flight Aviation Academy, Tamil Nadu
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Madhya Pradesh Flying Club
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Bombay Flying Club, Mumbai
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Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGRUA), Uttar Pradesh – one of the most prestigious institutes.
Training Duration
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CPL training generally takes 18–24 months.
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For Indian Air Force, training duration is 3–4 years (including military training).
Cost of Pilot Training in India
The cost of becoming a pilot is one of the major concerns for aspirants.
Commercial Pilot Training Cost
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Flying training: ₹35–45 Lakhs (in India).
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Training abroad: ₹50–70 Lakhs (in countries like USA, Canada, South Africa).
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Additional charges: exam fees, medical tests, books, uniforms, etc.
Indian Air Force Training Cost
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Training is free of cost, as it is funded by the Government of India.
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In fact, cadets get a stipend during training.
Step-by-Step Process – How to Be a Pilot in India
Step 1 – Complete 10+2 with Science
Physics and Mathematics are mandatory. Students from other streams must appear for equivalent exams.
Step 2 – Medical Test (DGCA Class 1)
Without DGCA medical fitness, you cannot enroll in pilot training.
Step 3 – Choose Your Path (Civil or Air Force)
Decide whether you want to join civil aviation or the Indian Air Force.
Step 4 – Enroll in Flying School / NDA
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Civil: Apply in a DGCA-approved flying school.
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Defense: Clear NDA/AFCAT/CDS exams.
Step 5 – Flying Hours & Exams
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Minimum 200 flying hours required for CPL.
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Written exams in Air Navigation, Air Regulations, Meteorology, etc.
Step 6 – Get License
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Apply for CPL after completing required hours and exams.
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Defense pilots get their license after training.
Step 7 – Apply for Jobs
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Civil pilots can apply in domestic and international airlines.
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Air Force pilots serve the nation and later may join civil airlines after retirement.
Skills Required to Be a Successful Pilot
Technical Skills
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Strong knowledge of physics and math.
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Ability to read weather reports, navigation charts, and technical manuals.
Soft Skills
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Leadership qualities.
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Decision-making ability under pressure.
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Communication skills.
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Mental alertness and quick reflexes.
Career Opportunities After Becoming a Pilot
Civil Aviation Jobs
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Airline Pilot (Domestic & International).
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Cargo Pilot.
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Corporate Jet Pilot.
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Flight Instructor.
Indian Air Force Jobs
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Fighter Pilot.
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Transport Aircraft Pilot.
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Helicopter Pilot.
Salary of Pilots in India
Commercial Pilots
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Freshers (Co-Pilot): ₹1.5 – 2 Lakhs per month.
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Senior Captains: ₹5 – 10 Lakhs per month (depending on airline and experience).
Indian Air Force Pilots
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During training: ₹56,100 per month (stipend).
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After commissioning: ₹8–12 Lakhs per annum, with perks like housing, medical, and pension benefits.
Challenges in Becoming a Pilot
High Cost of Training
Pilot training is expensive, making it difficult for middle-class families.
Intense Competition
Limited seats in airlines and Air Force make the selection process tough.
Medical Standards
Not everyone can meet the strict medical fitness requirements.
Advantages of Becoming a Pilot
Prestigious Career
Pilots are respected globally.
High Salary
One of the highest-paying jobs in India.
Travel Opportunities
Get a chance to explore the world while working.
FAQs
How to Be a Pilot in India
Q1. What is the minimum qualification to become a pilot in India?
Answer: You must complete 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
Q2. Can commerce students become pilots?
Answer: Yes, but they must take Physics and Mathematics as additional subjects from NIOS or a recognized board.
Q3. How long does it take to become a pilot in India?
Answer: Around 2 years for civil aviation and 3–4 years for Indian Air Force.
Q4. Is becoming a pilot expensive?
Answer: Yes, commercial pilot training costs around ₹35–45 Lakhs in India. But in the Indian Air Force, training is free.
Q5. What is the salary of a pilot in India?
Answer: A fresher commercial pilot earns ₹1.5 – 2 Lakhs per month, while experienced captains earn up to ₹10 Lakhs per month.
Q6. Is there job security in aviation?
Answer: Yes, but it depends on the industry demand. Defense pilots have guaranteed job security, while civil pilots depend on airline requirements.
Conclusion
Becoming a pilot is one of the most rewarding career choices in India. It requires hard work, financial investment, discipline, and determination. Whether you choose to fly as a commercial pilot in civil aviation or as a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force, both paths offer prestige, adventure, and high earning potential.
If you are truly passionate about flying and ready to face the challenges, then this detailed step-by-step guide on how to be a pilot in India will help you shape your career in the aviation industry.