Dreaming of soaring through the skies and commanding an aircraft? Becoming a pilot is a thrilling and rewarding career choice that many aspire to. In India, the journey to the cockpit can be straightforward if you know the steps involved. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of how to become a pilot after 12th.
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Before you can embark on your journey to become a pilot, you need to ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 17 years old.
- What to study to become a pilot after 12th: You must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Mathematics, and English from a recognised board. A minimum of 51% marks in these subjects is required.
- Medical Fitness: You need to obtain a Class 2 medical certificate from a Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-approved medical examiner. Later, you’ll need a Class 1 medical certificate for advanced training and licensing.
Step 2: Acquiring a Computer Number
The first step towards becoming a pilot is obtaining a DGCA computer number from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This number is essential for all aspiring airline pilots in India. The application process is straightforward and can be completed by filling out the form available on platforms like DGCA Pariksha or the DGCA website.
Step 3: Choose the Right Pathway
There are primarily two pathways to becoming a pilot in India: Civil Aviation (Commercial Pilot) and Indian Air Force (Military Pilot).
Civil Aviation Pathway
- Student Pilot License (SPL): The first step is to obtain an SPL. This involves passing a written examination on subjects such as Air Regulations, Aviation Meteorology, Air Navigation, and Aircraft and Engines.
- Private Pilot License (PPL): After obtaining the SPL, you can start flying under the supervision of a flight instructor to accumulate flying hours. You need a minimum of 40 flying hours to apply for a PPL.
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): With a PPL, you can then train for a commercial pilot license, which requires at least 200 flying hours, including cross-country flying, instrument flying, and night flying.
Indian Air Force Pathway
- National Defence Academy (NDA): You can apply for the NDA exam conducted by the UPSC. Upon clearing the exam and subsequent SSB interview, you can join the Air Force Academy.
- Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT): Graduates can take the AFCAT to join the Indian Air Force. Successful candidates undergo rigorous training at the Air Force Academy.
Step 4: Complete Ground Training
Becoming a commercial pilot begins with comprehensive ground training. The ground school provides the crucial theoretical knowledge that underpins the practical skills needed for flying and prepares aspiring pilots for the rigorous training ahead. Subjects include:
- Air Navigation
- Meteorology
- Air Regulations and Human Performance
- Aircraft Technical and Engine
- Radio Telephonic Communication
Step 5: Select a Reputable Flight School
Choosing the right flight school is crucial for your training. Consider the following factors before joining a pilot course after 12th:
- Fleet and Facilities: Check the quality of aircraft and training facilities.
- Instructor Experience: Experienced instructors can provide better guidance and training.
- Placement Records: Schools with good placement records can enhance your job prospects.
Insight Aviation’s IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme is a reputable pilot training program that offers comprehensive commercial pilot training. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, cadets learn to navigate flight controls, master takeoffs and landings, and develop essential piloting skills.
Step 6: Accumulate Flying Hours
Practical flying training is a significant part of pilot training. Flight training progresses through various stages, starting with basic manoeuvres such as straight and level flight, climbs, descents, and turns. As students gain proficiency, they move on to more advanced manoeuvres, instrument flying, navigation exercises, and emergency procedures. Each flight brings new challenges and opportunities for growth, as aspiring pilots hone their skills and build confidence in the cockpit.
For a CPL, you need to accumulate:
- 200 Hours Total Flight Time: Including solo and dual flight hours.
- 100 Hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
- 20 Hours Cross-Country Flying
- 10 Hours Instrument Flying
- 5 Hours Night Flying
Step 7: Clear DGCA Examinations
You must pass a series of examinations conducted by the DGCA covering:
- Air Navigation
- Meteorology
- Technical General
- Technical Specific (aircraft type)
- Air Regulations
Step 8: Obtain Your Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Once you have completed your training and passed the required exams, you can apply for your CPL. This license allows you to work as a commercial pilot in airlines, charter companies, and more.
Step 9: Advanced Training and Type Rating
To enhance employability, consider advanced training and type rating:
- Type Rating: Training on specific aircraft types such as Airbus A320, Boeing 737, etc.
- Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC) Training: Prepares you to work in a multi-crew cockpit environment.
Step 10: Apply for Jobs
With your CPL and necessary ratings, you can start applying for jobs with airlines, charter services, and other aviation companies. Networking, job portals, and recruitment drives by airlines can help you find opportunities. With Insight Aviation’s IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme, IndiGo will recruit you as a Junior First Officer at the end of training. The letter of intent (LOI) issued by IndiGo after the selection process is their commitment to this project.
Becoming a pilot in India after 12th grade is a structured process involving rigorous training and dedication. By following the steps outlined above, you can make your dream of flying a reality. Join Insight Aviation’s IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme to take your flying journey high above the sky. Remember, the journey requires commitment, but the reward of navigating the skies is well worth the effort. Fly high and safe travels!
FAQs
Q. Which entrance exam does a student have to take to become a pilot?
A. To become an Indian Air Force Pilot, the student has to take the NDA or AFCAT exam. To become a commercial pilot, the candidate must undergo FTO, DGCA, and medical exams.
Q. Are 12th marks important for becoming a pilot?
A. Yes, without having 51% in Maths and Physics, candidates are not eligible to become a pilot.
Q. How much percentage is required to become a pilot after the 12th?
A. 51% with Maths, Physics and English subjects are required by an aspiring pilot.
Q. What is the salary of a pilot after the 12th class?
A. The average salary of a pilot after the 12th class is between 22 to 30 LPA.
Q. What are the minimum eligibility requirements for becoming a pilot?
A. You must be at least 17 years old and have 51% in Physics and Maths subjects in your education.
Q. What are the paths taken to become a pilot after the 12th in India?
A. There are two main paths to becoming a pilot after 12th in India:
The National Defence Academy(NDA): It is a tri-service prestigious academy that trains cadets to be mandated into either the Army, Navy, or Air Force. To enter into NDA, a candidate needs to have passed Class 12 with Physics and Maths, along with succeeding in the NDA general entrance tests. After finishing the NDA training program, he is commissioned as a Pilot Officer with the Indian Air Force.
Commercial Pilot Training (CPL) Program: This is the most common way of becoming a pilot in India. You will need to fulfil the relevant eligibility criteria and pass an entrance exam administered by the flying school for enrollment in a commercial pilot training program. It usually takes around 18 months to complete.