How to Become a Pilot After 10th: Complete Guide to Training, Fees, Eligibility & Career

Becoming a pilot is one of the most prestigious career choices in India. Thousands of students dream of wearing the pilot’s uniform, flying high, and building a future in aviation. But one of the most common questions students ask is: “How to become a pilot after 10th?”

The short answer is – you cannot directly become a pilot after the 10th. However, the 10th grade is the first stepping stone. Your choice of subjects after the 10th (in Class 11 & 12) will decide whether you are eligible for pilot training in India or abroad.

In this detailed guide, we will explain:

• The right path after the 10th to become a pilot
• Eligibility criteria for pilot courses in India
• Pilot training duration and fees
• Best pilot training institutes in India
• Career opportunities, scholarships, and FAQs

Step 1: Choose the Right Stream After 10th

To become a pilot in India, you need to complete 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics. So, after the 10th, you should choose the Science stream (PCM) in Class 11 and 12.

Without Physics and Mathematics, you are not eligible for commercial pilot training. In case you miss PCM in 12th, you can still appear for these subjects later through NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling).

✅ Key takeaway: After the 10th, take Science with PCM in 11th & 12th to keep your pilot career on track.

Step 2: Meet the Basic Eligibility to Become a Pilot in India

Before applying for a pilot course in India, you must check the eligibility requirements:

• Age: Minimum 17 years to apply for a Student Pilot License.
• Education: 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics.
• Medical Fitness: Class 1 Medical Examination from DGCA-approved doctors.
• Nationality: Indian students can train in India or abroad.

Step 3: Choose Your Path – Commercial Pilot vs Defence Pilot

After completing your 12th, you have two main paths:

Commercial Pilot (Civil Aviation)

• Requires training from a DGCA-approved Pilot Training Institute in India.
• You will earn a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
• Career options: Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, Akasa, Vistara, Cargo operators, and private charters.

Defence Pilot (Air Force)

• Appear for NDA exam after 12th.
• Get trained at Air Force Academy, Dundigal.
• Serve as a pilot in the Indian Air Force.

Step 4: Pilot Training Courses in India

There are different pilot courses in India depending on your career goal:

• Student Pilot License (SPL) – First step, requires a medical and oral test.
• Private Pilot License (PPL) – Basic flying training (40–50 hours).
• Commercial Pilot License (CPL) – Full-fledged training (200 hours of flying).

📌 Most students aim for a CPL, as it allows them to work with airlines.

Step 5: Duration of Pilot Course in India

• Private Pilot License (PPL): 6–12 months
• Commercial Pilot License (CPL): 18–24 months
• Cadet Pilot Program (like IndiGo, Air India, Akasa): 18–24 months (integrated training)
  
  So, if you start right after 12th, it usually takes 2–3 years to become a commercial pilot.

Step 6: Pilot Training Fees in India

One of the biggest questions students ask is: “How much money is required to become a pilot?”
Here’s a breakdown:

• Pilot training in India (CPL): ₹35–55 Lakhs
• Cadet Pilot Programs (like IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program fees): ₹70–90 Lakhs
• Pilot course fees in India government institutes: Relatively lower (₹25–40 Lakhs), but seats are very limited.

📌 Abroad, the cost may go up to ₹80 Lakhs – 1 Crore, depending on the country.

Step 7: Best Pilot Training Institutes in India

If you are serious about flying, choosing the best pilot training institute in India is very important. Some top names include:

• National Flying Training Institute (NFTI), Gondia
• Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics, Nagpur
• CAE Global Academy, Gondia
• Bombay Flying Club, Mumbai
• Rajiv Gandhi Aviation Academy, Hyderabad

(For a detailed guide, you can check: Top 10 Pilot Training Institutes in India with Fees)

Step 8: Scholarships for Pilot Training in India

Since commercial pilot training cost in India is high, many students look for scholarships. Some options include:

• DGCA Scholarship Programs
• State Government Scholarships (for meritorious students)
• Airline-sponsored Cadet Programs (IndiGo, Air India, etc.)

These can reduce the financial burden of pilot course fees in India.

Step 9: Career Opportunities After Pilot Training

Once you complete your CPL, career opportunities open up in:

• Domestic airlines (IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, Akasa, SpiceJet)
• International airlines (after gaining flying hours)
• Corporate/private jet flying
• Cargo airlines (Blue Dart, Quikjet, etc.)
• Flight instructor roles at pilot training institutes

With the aviation sector in India growing rapidly, pilots are in huge demand.

Final Thoughts

If you are in the 10th standard and dreaming of flying, remember – the journey begins with the right stream in 11th and 12th. Choose PCM subjects, stay focused, and plan your pilot training in India carefully.

While the pilot training fees in India can seem high, the career rewards are equally great. With proper guidance, scholarships, and determination, you can turn your dream of becoming a pilot into reality.

So, the answer to “How to become a pilot after 10th?” is simple:

👉 Build your foundation with Physics & Maths, clear the DGCA requirements, join a reputed pilot training institute in India, and aim for your wings.

👉 Once you understand the path to becoming a pilot, the next big question is about earnings. You can explore our detailed guide on Pilot Salary in India – Dreams, Lifestyle and Real Earnings to know what a pilot actually earns and the lifestyle that comes with it.

FAQs

1. Can I become a pilot after 10th directly?
   👉 No, you must complete 12th with Physics & Maths.
   
2. How many years to become a pilot after 12th?
   👉 Usually 2–3 years for CPL training.
   
3. How much does it cost to become a pilot in India?
   👉 ₹35–55 Lakhs in India, ₹80 Lakhs – 1 Crore abroad.
   
4. Can girls become pilots in India?
   👉 Yes! Many are now exploring how to become a female pilot after 12th with equal opportunities.
   
5. Which is the best pilot course in India?
   👉 The Commercial Pilot Course is the most preferred.