The airline pilot course is the most crucial step for anyone dreaming of flying commercial aircraft and building a rewarding career in aviation. Unlike general pilot training, this course is specifically structured to prepare candidates for flying passenger and cargo aircraft in airlines. In this detailed guide, we explain what the airline pilot course includes, the eligibility requirements, costs, career opportunities, and expected pilot salary in India.
What is an Airline Pilot Course?
An airline pilot course is a structured training program designed to equip aspiring pilots with both the theoretical knowledge and practical flying experience required to become a professional airline pilot. It includes ground school subjects, simulator sessions, and extensive flying hours. The course ends with obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and, in most cases, a Type Rating that qualifies you to fly a specific aircraft such as the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737.
Eligibility for Airline Pilot Course in India
Before enrolling, candidates must meet certain criteria set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA):
- Minimum Age: 17 years at the time of joining.
- Educational Qualification: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics. Non-science students can appear for these subjects through NIOS or other recognized boards.
- Medical Fitness: A DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate is mandatory.
Airline Pilot Course Duration and Structure
The typical duration of an airline pilot course ranges between 18 to 24 months, depending on the flying school, weather conditions, and student performance.
Course Structure:
- Ground Training: Subjects include Air Regulations, Meteorology, Navigation, and Aircraft Technical Knowledge.
- Simulator Training: Modern simulators provide near-real cockpit experiences.
- Flying Hours: A minimum of 200 flying hours is required to obtain a CPL.
- Type Rating: After CPL, students undergo aircraft-specific training to qualify for airline jobs.
Cost of Airline Pilot Course in India
The airline pilot course is a major investment. On average, the cost in India is between ₹35–50 lakhs, excluding type rating fees which can add another ₹15–20 lakhs.
Breakdown of Costs:
- Ground School: ₹3–5 lakhs
- Flying Training: ₹25–40 lakhs
- DGCA Exams & Medicals: ₹1–2 lakhs
- Type Rating: ₹15–20 lakhs
Though costly, the financial rewards after course completion make it worthwhile.
The airline pilot course in India typically costs between ₹35–50 lakhs, depending on the school and training. For a more detailed breakdown of expenses, you can read our full guide on how much it costs to become a pilot.
How to Become an Airline Pilot in India
Here is the step-by-step roadmap:
- Student Pilot License (SPL): Entry point into flying.
- Private Pilot License (PPL): Around 40–60 hours of flying to learn the basics.
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): A minimum of 200 flying hours, including cross-country and night flying.
- Type Rating: Specialized training on specific aircraft like A320 or B737.
- Airline Job: After selection, pilots undergo airline-specific training and line checks.
Airline Pilot Salary in India
One of the biggest motivators for pursuing this career is the salary. The airline pilot salary per month depends on rank, airline, and experience.
- Fresh First Officer: ₹1.5–2.5 lakhs per month
- Experienced First Officer: ₹3–4 lakhs per month
- Captain: ₹6–10 lakhs per month
IndiGo Airlines Pilot Salary
As India’s largest airline, IndiGo pays competitive packages:
- First Officers: Around ₹2–2.5 lakhs per month
- Captains: Up to ₹8–10 lakhs per month with benefits
Career Opportunities After Airline Pilot Course
After completing the airline pilot course, pilots can work with:
- Commercial Airlines (Domestic & International)
- Cargo Airlines (Blue Dart, DHL, FedEx)
- Corporate & Charter Services
- Flight Training Academies (as instructors)
The aviation industry in India is expanding rapidly, and with government schemes like UDAN, job opportunities for trained pilots are increasing significantly.
Why Choose an Airline Pilot Course in India?
- Growing Demand: India is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets.
- High Earning Potential: Attractive airline pilot salary in India ensures financial stability.
- Prestigious Career: Pilots enjoy global exposure and respect.
- Global Opportunities: A license obtained in India can be converted to other countries’ standards.
Top Flying Schools Offering Airline Pilot Course
Here are some of the top DGCA-approved schools:
Why TCA is the Best Option for Aspiring Pilots?
- DGCA-Approved Programs: Fully compliant with Indian aviation standards.
- Modern Fleet & Simulators: Training on advanced aircraft and state-of-the-art simulators.
- Experienced Instructors: A team of highly qualified professionals with real airline experience.
- Career Support: Strong airline tie-ups and placement guidance for students.
- Affordable Yet Comprehensive: Competitive fee structure with no compromise on quality.
Other Reputed Flying Schools in India - Bombay Flying Club, Mumbai
- Madhya Pradesh Flying Club, Indore
- Rajiv Gandhi Aviation Academy, Hyderabad
- CAE Global Academy, Gondia
Final Thoughts
The airline pilot course is the gateway to a high-paying and prestigious aviation career. While the financial investment is significant, the returns in terms of career growth and airline pilot salary make it a worthwhile choice. With India’s aviation industry expanding rapidly, completing this course today can set you up for an exciting future in the skies.
FAQs
Q1. What is the eligibility for an airline pilot course in India?
To join an airline pilot course, you must be at least 17 years old, have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics, and hold a DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate.
Q2. How much does the airline pilot course cost in India?
The cost of an airline pilot course in India ranges from ₹35–50 lakhs, with an additional ₹15–20 lakhs required for type rating.
Q3. How long does it take to complete the airline pilot course?
On average, it takes 18–24 months to complete the course, depending on the flying school, weather conditions, and student performance.
Q4. What is the average airline pilot salary in India?
A fresh First Officer can earn ₹1.5–2.5 lakhs per month, while experienced Captains can earn between ₹6–10 lakhs per month, depending on the airline.
Q5. Which are the top flying schools for airline pilot courses in India?
Some of the top DGCA-approved flying schools include the Bombay Flying Club (Mumbai), Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (Jaipur), Rajiv Gandhi Aviation Academy (Hyderabad), and CAE Global Academy (Gondia).
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