Being a pilot is a dream of many, and it is a perfectly achievable dream! In fact, you can become a pilot in India after the 12th. This is a great opportunity for young individuals who are interested in aviation and flying. The job offers many perks and benefits, and one of the biggest ones is the opportunity to fly all over the world and explore new places. Pilots are not just people who fly planes, though. A pilot is an individual who goes through intense training to fly different kinds of aircraft.
India has the highest number (more than 1200) of female pilots in the world. They comprise 12.4% of pilots in major airlines. No other country has ever surpassed the mark of 10%.
There are various types of pilots who deal with many things, from flying to maintenance of internal components of a plane. Airline Transport Pilots – Those pilots who fly commercial planes by private airlines and transport customers are called airline transport pilots. Different types of pilots include Private Pilots, Air Force Pilots, Commercial Pilots, Sport Pilots, Flight Instructors, etc. Based on your specialization, you can choose the flying profession that best suits you!
To know more about how you can become a pilot after the 12th class, refer to the comprehensive guide we have provided for you below!
How to Become a Pilot in India after the 12th?
Becoming a pilot is certainly a matter of pride as it is a highly sought-after profession. As the aviation industry keeps growing, it has become a safe job option that comes with many benefits.
How to Become a Pilot in India – Overview |
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| Pilot Profiles |
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| Eligibility Criteria |
Education Qualification:
Age Criteria:
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| Fees of Pilot Training Courses | Rs. 15 Lakhs to Rs. 20 Lakhs approx. |
| Average Annual Salary |
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| Types of Pilots |
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| Top Pilot Schools |
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| Exam to Become Military Pilot |
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| Licence |
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There are two routes to becoming a pilot – a civil route and a defence route. Based on what kind of life you envision for yourself, you can choose either.
First way: Through Civil Aviation
You will need to get a commercial pilot license to become a civil pilot. If you go the civil aviation route, you will be flying a specific type of aircraft for a particular airline. You can enrol in any national or international university and complete a course to become a pilot after passing your 12th with the prescribed subjects.
Second Way: Through Indian Defence Forces (Air Force)
The other and slightly more difficult way to become a pilot is to go the military route. You will need to prepare for competitive exams and clear them to get admitted into the Air Force. There, you will learn how to become a pilot, and they will train you in combat practice as well.
Step-by-Step Process to Become a Pilot After 12th
If you want to become a pilot after completing the 12th class, then refer to the steps mentioned below. This guide will provide you with the steps you need to follow to become a pilot.
Step 1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree
To become a pilot, you need to get a UG degree in any subject. It is recommended that you get a degree in subjects relevant to your work as a pilot. You can also opt for a diploma. Many pilot schools offer a bachelor’s degree as part of their curriculum as well.
You can choose to enrol in a pilot school or clear defence exams. You can also pursue a degree from an open university while you are enrolled in a flying course as well.
Step 2: Get Some Flying Experience and Pilot’s License
Getting flying experience after completing your initial education is a must! Generally, to become a commercial pilot, 250 hours of flying is essential. For an airline pilot, this limit is 1500 hours.
You must get your pilot’s license after gaining technical knowledge and learning how to fly. Based on the field you want to go in, you can work towards getting the license that works for that field.
Step 3: Complete Additional Training and Tests
Many airlines will require you to take additional health and psychological tests to check your physical and mental fitness for the jobs. Passing these tests is a necessity and you should prepare well for them.
Step 4: Advance as an Airline Pilot
If you want to get to the post of Captain, you need to work as a pilot for a few years. After that, as you become more senior and gain more flying hours, you can progress further in your career.
Eligibility Criteria to Become a Pilot in India 2024
To become a pilot, there are certain eligibility criteria that you must fulfil. There are very strict standards that are in place to ensure you are perfectly fit to become a pilot.
Refer to the table below to understand the eligibility criteria to become a pilot in 2024.
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Eligibility to Become a Pilot After 12th |
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|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 17 years at the time of the beginning of training |
| Educational Qualification | 50% or more marks in the 12th class from a recognized board |
| Subjects | One must have studied Maths, Physics, Chemistry, and English in 12th class* |
| Other Requirements | Medical Certificate from authorities as required by the training institution |
*If you have not studied science or any of the prescribed subjects in the 12th class, you can pursue them from an open school that is under a recognized board and present the certificate to the institution at the time of admission.is
Physical Requirements for Becoming a Pilot in India 2024
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Physical Requirements for Becoming a Pilot in India 2024 |
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| Gender | Specifications | ||||
| Height | Vision | Leg Length | Thigh Length | Sitting Height | |
| Male | 157 cm (5 ft 2 in) | One eye – 6/6 and Other eye – is 6/9 (must not suffer from colour or night blindness) | 99 cms – 120 cms | 64 cms | 81.5 cms – 96 cms |
| Female | 152 cm (5 ft) | ||||
Top Colleges for Pilot Courses in India 2024
India offers some of the most comprehensive pilot courses after the 12th class. Many quality institutions will provide you with the adequate knowledge and skills to kickstart your career as a pilot. Refer to the list provided below to know some of the best colleges for pilot courses in India.
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College Name |
Average Fees – |
Course Duration |
|---|---|---|
| CAE National Flying Training Institute (NFTI) | 42 Lakhs | 54 Months |
| Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGIA) | 1.59 Lakhs | 12 Months |
| Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA) | 38 Lakhs | 48 Months |
| Jeet Aviation Academy (JAA) | 26 Lakhs | 48 Months |
| Bombay Flying Club (BFC) | 35 Lakhs | 36 Months |
| Madras Flying Club (MFC) | 24 Lakhs | 36 Months |
| Yudhvir Singh Chauhan College of Aviation (YSCCA) | 20 Lakhs | 48 Months |
| Himalayan Aviation Academy (HAA) | 28 Lakhs | 48 Months |
Best Universities/Colleges for Pilot Course Abroad 2024
You can also pursue your education as a pilot from abroad. The Plethora of universities abroad has various courses that are aimed at developing you as a competent pilot. These universities are some of the best in the world and will surely provide you with a great learning experience.
Refer to the list below to know the top universities for pilot courses abroad.
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University/College |
Program |
Estimated Degree Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach, Florida, USA) | Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics | $180,000 – $250,000 |
| Cranfield University (Bedfordshire, England) | Master of Science in Air Transport Management | £70,000 – £90,000 |
| Massey University (Palmerston North, New Zealand) | Bachelor of Aviation with a major in Commercial Flying | NZD $220,000 – $260,000 |
| Royal Netherlands Air Force Academy (Gilze-Rijen, Netherlands) | Bachelor of Aerospace Technology | €30,000 – €40,000 (subsidized tuition for Dutch citizens) |
| Sichuan Flight Academy (Chengdu, China) | Bachelor of Science in Air Transport Management | ¥150,000 – ¥200,000 |
| University of New South Wales (Sydney, Australia) | Bachelor of Aviation / Bachelor of Business | AUD $150,000 – $200,000 |
| Jeppesen Sanderson Academy (Various Locations) | Integrated Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Program | €60,000 – €80,000 |
| Lufthansa Aviation Training (Bremen, Germany) | Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Program | €70,000 – €90,000 |
Types of License to Become a Pilot
To become a pilot in India, you need to have a license. Based on your career direction, you will need one or more of these three main licenses.
- Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFL) License C
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
UG Courses to Become a Pilot
While you can pursue becoming a pilot straight after passing the 12th class, there are certain undergraduate courses you can consider that will further expand your career scope. You can do these courses along with your training or after it is completed as well. These courses will provide you with additional knowledge to become a top-notch pilot.
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Degree |
Focus |
Average Fees per Year (INR) |
Duration (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BBA Airport Management | Airport operations, administration, & business | 3-5 Lakhs | 3-4 |
| BBA Aviation Operations | Airline and aviation industry operations | 3-5 Lakhs | 3-4 |
| BMS in Aviation Management | Management principles applied to aviation | 2-4 Lakhs | 3-4 |
| B.E. Aeronautical Engineering | Aircraft & spacecraft design, development, & testing | 4-7 Lakhs | 4 |
| B.E. Aerospace Engineering | Spacecraft & related systems design, development, & testing | 4-7 Lakhs | 4 |
| B.Tech Avionics Engineering | Aircraft electronic systems design, development, & maintenance | 3-5 Lakhs | 4 |
| B.Tech Aeronautical Engineering | Same as B.E. Aeronautical Engineering | 4-7 Lakhs | 4 |
| B.Sc. Aviation | Aviation science, flight operations, & management | 2-4 Lakhs | 3-4 |
| B.Sc. Aeronautical Science | Scientific Principles of flight and Aircraft systems | 2-3 Lakhs | 3-4 |
PG Courses to Become Pilot in India 2024
If you want to expand your career further, you can consider these postgraduate courses as well. These will make sure that you can work both on-field and off-field as per your preference in the future.
These PG courses will certainly set you apart from the others and help you gain professional success in the long run.
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Degree |
Focus |
Average Fees per Year (INR) |
Duration (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBA in Aviation | Aviation industry management, business strategies, leadership | 4-8 Lakhs | 1-2 |
| MSc in Aviation | Advanced study of aviation systems, operations, and safety | 3-5 Lakhs | 2 |
| M.Sc. Aerospace Engineering | Specialized study of spacecraft design, analysis, and testing | 4-7 Lakhs | 2 |
| M.Sc. Aeronautical Science | In-depth knowledge of aerodynamics, structures, and materials for aircraft | 3-5 Lakhs | 2 |
| M.E. Aerospace Engineering | Master’s level study of aircraft and spacecraft design, research, and development | 4-7 Lakhs | 2 |
| M.E. Aeronautical Engineering | Same as M.E. Aerospace Engineering | 4-7 Lakhs | 2 |
| M.Tech. Aerospace Engineering | Focus on advanced aeronautical technology, research, and innovation | 4-7 Lakhs | 2 |
| M.Tech. Aeronautical Engineering | Same as M.Tech. Aerospace Engineering | 4-7 Lakhs | 2 |
| M.Tech. Avionics Engineering | Advanced study of aircraft electronic systems, design, and technology | 4-5 Lakhs | 2 |
Certifications to Become Airline Pilot after 12th
There are also certain certifications you can take to become a pilot after passing the 12th class. These certifications do not require you to have any UG degree and can be done straight after the 12th class.
Check out the list of certifications that you can do to become a pilot below.
- Security Operations, Processes & Strategies in Aviation
- Aviation: Aircraft Ground Support Equipment
- Aviation: Airline Customer
- Service Course: Aviation Industry
- Cabin Crew Training
How to Become a Pilot in the Indian Air Force through AFCAT
The AFCAT exam, conducted twice a year, opens doors to a rewarding 14-year career in the Indian Air Force. The Indian Air Force (IAF) invites both men and women to take the thrilling journey towards becoming a Short Service Commissioned Officer (SSC) pilot.
Candidates are hired for the Technical and Ground Duty divisions to become pilots in the Indian Air Force. Here are the Criteria for selection through AFCAT.
- Age: Between 20 and 24 years when joining the Air Force.
- Extended age limit: 26 years for candidates with a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
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Education:
- Minimum 50% in Maths and Physics at 10+2 level.
- Bachelor’s degree with at least 60% in any discipline.
- For Technical Branch: BE/B Tech degree (4 years) with 60% marks or equivalent from a recognized university.
How to Become a Pilot in the Indian Air Force through NDA?
The National Defence Academy (NDA) is one of the most prestigious pathways to achieving this dream. Here’s how you can become a pilot in the Indian Air Force through NDA:
1) Eligibility:
- Age: Between 16.5 and 19.5 years at the time of the NDA exam.
- Education: Passed or appeared in class 12th exams from a recognized board with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
- Marital Status: Unmarried (applicable to both men and women).
- Physical and Medical Standards: Must meet the stringent physical and medical standards set by the Indian Air Force.
2) Selection Process:
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NDA Written Exam: Conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the exam comprises two parts:
- Mathematics: 120 objective-type questions (2.5 hours).
- General Ability Test: 150 objective-type questions (2.5 hours) covering Physics, Chemistry, English, General Knowledge, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.
- SSB Interview: Shortlisted candidates undergo a five-day Service Selection Board (SSB) interview to assess their personality, leadership, communication, and other officer-like qualities.
- CPSS: Candidates who qualify for the Flying Branch undergo the Computerized Pilot Selection System (CPSS) to assess their psychomotor skills and flying aptitude.
- Medical Test: Final medical tests ensure candidates meet the required physical and mental standards for flying.
Skills Required to Become a Pilot After 12th
Being a pilot is not easy, it requires one to have a specific set of skills. These skills are essential to ensure you can perform all your duties as a pilot efficiently. Being a pilot means being responsible for the safe travel of the passengers in your plane. It is important to be proactive and knowledgeable about what to do in case something goes wrong. To be able to handle any situation, it is critical to have certain skills.
Below, we have mentioned the important skills that all individuals who want to become pilots after the 12th should possess.
- You should possess strong technical knowledge and skills
- You should possess strong critical thinking
- You should be able to make quick decisions
- You should have a strong focus
- You should possess a strong sense of discipline
- You should have a high level of flexibility
- You should possess mental and physical fitness
- You should be able to work well in a team
- You should possess leadership quality
- You should have environmental and situational awareness
- You should possess good communication skills – written and verbal
Career Options for a Pilot in India
There are more than one career options for you as a pilot. There are different types of pilots that have different sets of job responsibilities.
Here is a list of different types of pilots that you can refer to so you know your possible career options:
- Airline Pilot – An airline pilot flies with an international airline. Their plans carry passengers and cargo on a fixed schedule. These pilots fly a larger distance and can fly all over the world. This is the most popular type of pilot job that is highly sought by the aspirants.
- Commercial Pilot – Just like an airline pilot, a commercial or regional pilot is also responsible for carrying passengers and cargo. But they fly at a shorter distance and only in regional areas. Being this type of pilot requires fewer overnight trips and will also keep you near your home.
- Military Pilot – This type of pilot is also known as Fighter Pilot. In this profession, you will train with the Army or Air Force and work with them after the training period is over. You will be flying military aircraft to transport military cargo and riders as a military pilot. These pilots are also trained in aerial combat.
- Corporate Pilot – A corporate pilot works for private enterprises or individuals. They usually fly smaller corporate planes and jets to assist corporate executives in travelling to various events and meetings.
- Charter Pilot – When a pilot flies travellers to specific destinations, they are known as a charter pilot. The term for this type of transit is also called “Air Taxi.” These type of pilots can own their own companies or work for other charter airlines.
Benefits of a Career as a Pilot
There are various benefits one can avail of when pursuing a career as a pilot. While the job may be time-consuming and can keep you away from home for an extended period, there are various other benefits that make up for these matters. Check out the benefits of becoming a pilot listed below.
- Good Salary – The salary of a pilot is one of the biggest perks of the profession. Pilots earn a handsome salary that helps them live a comfortable and lavish life. The salary is also subject to raise as one gets to more senior positions.
- Job Security – Being a pilot is a secure job. There is a great demand for skilled pilots as air travel increases. The aviation industry is also booming significantly, which has created a great demand for pilots who can safely carry passengers and goods over short and long distances.
- Travelling Opportunities – Being a pilot means you get to travel to various locations. Whether you are flying internationally or regionally, you get a chance to explore new places and try new cultures. As the accommodation is covered by the airlines and there is great flexibility, pilots can travel extensively.
- Discount on Plane Tickets – If you are working as a pilot with an airline, then you can get discounted tickets for yourself and your immediate family. This is a great benefit as you get to travel with your family and also save substantial money.
- Other Non-monetary Benefits – There are various other benefits associated with being a pilot as well. When one becomes a pilot, they get health benefits, free meals, complimentary lodging, and other allowances such as PF, gratuity, insurance, etc.
- Career Progression – Pilots get many opportunities to progress their careers, which is one of the greatest benefits. As they gain experience, they get promotions to higher ranks, which result in better salaries and benefits. They can also choose to do desk jobs after having a certain number of flying hours.
What is the Salary of Pilot in India?
The salary of pilots in India is one of the best. Pilots are compensated handsomely for the time they put in flying. On average, a pilot can get a salary of Rs. 1 to Rs. 2 lakhs per month. You can also get higher salary packages as you improve your skills and gain more seniority.
Commercial pilots tend to get the best salaries out of all other types. However, the salary is very good and helps one maintain a comfortable lifestyle. A military pilot’s salary can reach up to Rs. 5 to Rs. 8 lakhs per annum. However, there are various other perks that they are entitled to, which makes the job extremely rewarding.
Top Recruiters of Pilots in India
There is no dearth of organizations that need pilots for their daily operations. India is home to several airlines that operate daily. Multiple planes take flights every day and pilots are needed for each one of them.
Below, we are providing you with some of the top recruiters that you can choose to pursue your career as a pilot.
- IndiGo
- Air Asia
- Air India
- Spice Jet
- Alliance Air
- Air Costa
- India Jet Airways
- Air India Charters Ltd
Summary
When it comes to becoming a pilot, the sky is the limit! There are many opportunities and avenues that will open up for you once you have completed your training. You can choose your specialization to narrow down the fields you are most interested in.
Being a pilot is considered one of the most prestigious jobs, and it is certainly a very reputed career. If you want to become a pilot after the 12th, then you should definitely go for it!
FAQs: How to Become a Pilot After 12th
Q1. Do I need a specific degree to become a pilot?
No, a specific degree isn’t mandatory. However, certain courses like B.Sc. Aviation or B.Tech. Aeronautical Engineering can provide a strong foundation and understanding of aviation principles.
Q2. What are the minimum eligibility requirements for becoming a pilot?
- Minimum age: 17 years for PPL, 18 years for CPL
- Physics and Mathematics in 12th grade (some institutes may accept other combinations)
- Pass DGCA Class 1 or Class 2 medical tests
- Meet specific height and weight criteria
Q3. What are the different licenses and certifications needed?
- Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
- Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) (for becoming a captain)
- Type rating for specific aircraft types
- Class 1 or Class 2 medical certificate
Q4. How much does it cost to become a pilot?
Costs can vary significantly depending on chosen institutes, program durations, location, and additional expenses. Estimate total costs to include:
- Tuition fees for theoretical courses
- Flight training hours
- Medical examinations
- Licensing fees
- Accommodation and living expenses
Roughly, the entire process can cost between INR 20 Lakhs and INR 50 Lakhs.
Q5. What are the career prospects for pilots in India?
The aviation industry in India is growing rapidly, creating demand for qualified pilots. With a CPL, you can start as a First Officer and progress to Captain with experience and ATPL. Salaries can be competitive, ranging from INR 3 Lakhs to INR 10 Lakhs per month depending on experience and airline.
Q6. Can I study abroad for pilot training?
Yes, several renowned institutes worldwide offer pilot training programs. Research thoroughly, considering factors like costs, program structure, visa requirements, and career pathways before applying.
Q7. What are the physical and mental requirements for being a pilot?
- Good vision, hearing, and overall health
- Normal height and weight within healthy range
- Excellent coordination, balance, and motor skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to withstand stress and make quick decisions
- Good communication and teamwork skills