How to Become a Pilot?

Pilots are professionals who can fly commercial aircraft, helicopters, cargo planes, private jets, and other types of aircraft. They have the responsibility to fly safely and ensure the security of their passengers and crew. Pilots, in India, work in diverse fields – you can serve as a fighter pilot in the Indian Navy, or as a commercial pilot in private airline companies, among others. 

Pilots are also responsible for conducting several pre-flight checks such as weather conditions, flight logs, and flight plans.

In this post, let us take you through the stepwise process of how to become a pilot in India including details on pilot courses:

What are the Eligibility Criteria to Become a Pilot?

In India, to become a pilot you must follow the below eligibility requirements:

• The candidate must be 18 years or above
• Candidates must have completed their 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
• The Candidate must have a Class 2 medical certificate from a doctor approved by DGCA or the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to ensure his/her mental and physical fitness (especially for private pilot license)

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Physical Requirements to Become a Pilot

Below are some physical requirements to become a pilot for both males and females:

·        Height: 165 cm

·        Body Mass Index (BMI) – 18.5 – 25

·        Sight – 6/6 on each eye

·        Color vision – normal

·        Hearing – The applicant shall not have hearing loss of more than 35 decibels in either ear separately 

·        General fitness – Should be fit and healthy and free from major medical conditions

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How to Become a Pilot?

To become a pilot in India, you can follow the below steps:

·        Research your area of interest – To become a pilot you can go through two separate ways in India. You can go through the Civil Aviation route or the Indian Defence Forces route.  If you choose the first option, you can become a commercial pilot and fly commercial aircraft as part of your employment with commercial airlines. Alternatively, the second route helps you become an AirForce Pilot and serve the nation. Hence, you need to research your area of interest first to make sure of the path you would like to take. 

·        Commercial vs Air Force Pilot – When it comes to choosing between commercial and air force pilot, everything starting from responsibilities, license requirements, and the process of training, etc., are different. 

If you are willing to learn “how to become a commercial pilot”, keep in mind that the first step is to complete your 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. Some flying schools may ask for a bachelor’s degree to enroll in commercial flying courses. Commercial pilots fly aircraft, private jets, and helicopters and may carry cargo or passengers. 

On the other hand, Air Force pilots serve the nation as fighter pilots. They fly fighter jets, Future strategic tanker aircraft (FSTA), etc. You can pursue your dream of becoming an Air Force pilot after 12^th or after your bachelor’s degree. 

·        Enroll in a Flying School – To become a civil aviation pilot, you must join a flying school in India. You can research well while applying to the best flying schools in India to fulfill your flying dreams.  Depending on your requirements of location, course, fees, and other things, you may choose the training school.   

·        Apply for License – The license for civil aviation pilots is issued and regulated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India. To get a pilot license, each pilot must complete a minimum of hours of flying (prescribed by DGCA) to become a civil aviation pilot. Various licenses are available to apply for including Private Pilot license (PPL), Commercial pilot license (CPL), Airline transport pilot license, and more. 

·        Clear Exam – Finally, to become a pilot, you must clear exams for the category of pilot license you are applying for. These Exams include oral tests as well as written exams conducted by DGCA.

·        Air Force Pilots – To become Air Force pilots, students can prepare for National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Service Examinations (CDSE). They can have entry through the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT)    

Medical fitness is also a very important criterion for becoming a pilot. DGCA sets standards for fitness in India, in which every candidate has to qualify to train as a pilot. Also, there are oral and written exams that the candidates have to qualify for.  

Tips to Become a Pilot in India

•  If you are willing to become a pilot in India, you must start planning early on
• You may join an aviation club or become a volunteer at a local airport to stay involved in the aviation community
• Speak with people who can help and guide you like other pilots, experts, etc
• You must be dedicated and persistent in your efforts and not give up 

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Career Prospects for Pilots in India

The job prospects for pilots in India are excellent. Pilots are offered good remunerations, various perks, and a rewarding career. With the continuous economic expansion and growth in the civil aviation sector in India, the need for well-trained and qualified pilots is increasing. Further, the worldwide demand for air travel has also intensified the requirement for commercial pilots in the country.   

Conclusion

Becoming a pilot is a fascinating and exciting career option that many young students want to pursue. The perks and benefits associated with this career further encourage students to join this profession. If you are willing to start a career as a commercial pilot, get your basics strong by joining an Amity Online bachelor’s degree. 

There are several online degree options available at Amity Online University. To enroll and to learn more, visit the Amity Online University portal. 

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