How to Become a Pilot in India in 2026: Pilot Courses In India

Dreaming of soaring above the clouds and piloting aircraft across India’s skies? Whether you’re fresh out of Class 12 or considering aviation after graduation, 2026 presents more opportunities than ever before. With regulatory updates relaxing subject requirements, innovative cadet programs, and rising demand for pilots at both commercial and defense sectors, the path to becoming a pilot is evolving rapidly.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

The latest regulatory & eligibility updates in 2026, including changes for non-science students.
A step-by-step process to become a pilot in India.
Different pathways: after 10th, after 12th, and after graduation.
The types of pilots in India and the roles they play.
The salary of a pilot in India (2026) across civil, military, and private sectors.
FAQs on pilot training — cost, eligibility, girls in aviation, Air Force route, and affordable options.

By the end, you’ll have a clear, actionable roadmap to pursue your aviation career on your own terms. Ready for takeoff? Let’s begin.

Regulatory & Eligibility Updates for 2026

A Historic Shift: Open Skies for Arts & Commerce Students

In a landmark move, the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) has formally approved a proposal to relax the long-standing requirement for Physics and Mathematics in Class 12 for aspiring commercial pilots. If the Ministry of Civil Aviation gives the final nod, students from arts and commerce streams will become eligible for CPL (Commercial Pilot Licence) training—ending a nearly 30-year restriction that limited CPL entry to science students only.

This inclusive shift aligns with the spirit of NEP 2020, aiming to provide broader career flexibility across academic streams

What’s Behind the Change—and What It Means for You

Expanded Talent Pool: More students can now pursue aviation without switching to the science stream—a big win for those passionate about flying but tied to their chosen field.
Ongoing Debate: Experts caution that the technical rigors of pilot training could face challenges, noting that physics and math form the foundational backbone of flight systems and aerodynamics.
Bridging the Gaps: To maintain training standards, many flying schools may introduce bridging or foundation courses in physics, math, and aviation basics for non-science entrants.
Status Update: The proposal has already been approved by the DGCA and awaits final authorization from the Ministry of Civil Aviation—so 2026 could likely be the year this becomes official.

Summary at a Glance

Aspect	Details (2026 Update)
Previous Rule	Only Class 12 students with Physics and Math eligible for CPL training
New Proposal	Arts and Commerce students can apply for CPL, subject to final Ministry approval
Why It Matters	Breaks down academic barriers; aligns with NEP 2020’s inclusivity goals
Key Concerns	Ensuring safety and technical competency; need for supplementary courses for non-science students

How to Become a Pilot in India?

Becoming a pilot in India is an exciting but disciplined journey that combines academic qualifications, medical fitness, specialized training, and licensing under DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) regulations. While the dream of flying is universal, the path to the cockpit requires structured steps:

Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Criteria

Age: Minimum 16 years for Student Pilot Licence (SPL), 17 years for Private Pilot Licence (PPL), and 18 years for Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).
Education: Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics (or as per the 2026 update, arts/commerce students may also qualify with bridging courses).
Language: Proficiency in English (ICAO Level 4 or above).

Step 2: Obtain a Class 2 Medical Certificate

Before joining a flying school, candidates must undergo a DGCA-approved Class 2 Medical Examination. Once cleared, you can proceed to Class 1 Medicals, which are mandatory for CPL training. This ensures you are physically and mentally fit to operate an aircraft.

Step 3: Enroll in a DGCA-Approved Flying School

Select a recognized aviation academy or flight training organization in India or abroad. Training institutes typically offer both:

Ground School → Subjects like Air Navigation, Meteorology, Regulations, and Aircraft Technical Knowledge.
Flying Training → Dual and solo flights under instructor supervision, using DGCA-certified aircraft.

Step 4: Begin with a Student Pilot Licence (SPL)

This is your first license, allowing you to start flying training. To obtain it, you’ll need to clear an oral exam conducted by the DGCA or the flying school’s Chief Flying Instructor.

Step 5: Progress to a Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

Requires 40–60 hours of flying experience.
Authorizes you to fly light aircraft for personal/recreational purposes, but not for commercial jobs.

Step 6: Train for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

This is the core professional license for aspiring airline pilots. To obtain a CPL, you must:

Accumulate 200 hours of total flying experience.
Pass DGCA’s written exams (Air Navigation, Air Meteorology, Air Regulations, Technical).
Clear a skill test (flying check) conducted by DGCA examiners.

Step 7: Build Experience & Upgrade Your License

After securing a CPL, pilots typically:
Gain hours as Flight Instructors or Charter Pilots.
Apply for Airline Cadet Programs (IndiGo, Air India, Akasa, etc.).
Work towards an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL), which requires 1,500 flying hours and is mandatory to command large commercial aircraft.

How to Become a Pilot After 10th?

After Class 10, you can join the Air Force (NDA route) by clearing the National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance exam.
Minimum eligibility: 16.5–19.5 years, with Physics & Math in 12th for the flying branch.
Alternatively, after 10th, continue to Class 12 (PCM stream preferred) if you wish to pursue a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) later.
Some aviation academies also offer foundation courses after 10th, preparing students for flying training post-12th.
In short → 10th pass students cannot directly start CPL training but can begin planning early (choosing the right stream, fitness, and NDA prep).

How to Become a Pilot After 12th?

Complete Class 12 (with Physics & Math) → or as per 2026 updates, Arts/Commerce students may qualify with bridging courses.
Get a DGCA Class 2 Medical Certificate (later upgrade to Class 1).
Enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school in India or abroad.
Obtain your Student Pilot License (SPL) → progress to Private Pilot License (PPL).
Accumulate 200 flying hours and clear DGCA exams → earn a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
Apply for airline cadet programs or gain experience towards an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).

How to Become a Pilot After Graduation?

If you’ve already completed a bachelor’s degree, you can still pursue aviation.
Ensure you had Physics & Math in 10+2 (or take bridging courses as per 2026 rules).
Obtain a DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate before joining training.
Enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school in India or abroad.
Begin with SPL → PPL → CPL, completing 200 flying hours + DGCA exams.
Graduates can also apply for Airline Cadet Programs (IndiGo, Air India, Akasa, etc.) or consider the Indian Air Force via AFCAT entry (if under 24 years).
Bonus: Having a degree adds value if you later transition to aviation management, instructing, or international airlines.

✈️ Ready to Start Your Pilot Journey?

At Dunes Aviation, we guide aspiring aviators at every stage — from choosing the right pathway (after 10th, 12th, or graduation) to securing a DGCA-approved CPL training program. Our experts help you with medicals, admissions, flight hours, and exam prep — so you can focus on what matters most: flying high.

👉 Start your pilot career with confidence — Explore Training Programs at Dunes Aviation

Types of Pilots in India:

Commercial Pilot (CPL Holder) → Flies passenger or cargo aircraft for airlines and charter services.
Airline Transport Pilot (ATPL Holder) → Senior-most license; required to become an airline Captain.
Private Pilot (PPL Holder) → Flies aircraft for personal/recreational purposes, not for hire.
Flight Instructor → Trains student pilots in flying schools, helps build flying hours.
Military Pilot (IAF / Navy / Army Aviation) → Operates fighter jets, transport aircraft, or helicopters for the armed forces.
Cargo/Freighter Pilot → Specializes in transporting goods and freight operations.
Helicopter Pilot → Flies helicopters for air ambulance, rescue, tourism, and corporate services.

Salary of a Pilot in India (2026):

Commercial Airline Pilot (First Officer) → ₹1.5 – ₹3.5 lakh per month (entry-level).
Airline Captain (ATPL Holder) → ₹6 – ₹10+ lakh per month, depending on airline & experience.
Cargo / Freighter Pilots → ₹2 – ₹4 lakh per month.
Private Jet / Charter Pilots → ₹2 – ₹5 lakh per month.
Helicopter Pilots → ₹1.2 – ₹3 lakh per month (varies by sector: rescue, tourism, corporate).
Indian Air Force Pilots → Starting salary ₹70,000 – ₹1.2 lakh per month + allowances, rising with rank.

💡 Note: Salaries vary by airline, flying hours, type of aircraft, and seniority. With the aviation sector expanding in 2026, pilot demand — and pay packages — are expected to grow significantly.

Conclusion

Becoming a pilot in India is no longer just a dream for a select few — in 2026, with regulatory updates, inclusive eligibility rules, and growing airline fleets, the skies are open wider than ever before. Whether you’re planning your journey after 10th, 12th, or graduation, the path is structured but rewarding: clear medicals, join a DGCA-approved academy, build flying hours, and earn your pilot licenses step by step.

While the journey demands dedication, time, and investment, the rewards are unmatched — a prestigious career, global travel, and the thrill of commanding an aircraft. With aviation in India projected to expand rapidly over the next decade, the demand for skilled pilots is only set to rise.

FAQs on Becoming a Pilot in India (2026)

1. What is the salary of a pilot in India?

A commercial pilot in India earns ₹1.5–3.5 lakh per month as a First Officer, while an experienced Captain can earn ₹6–10 lakh+ per month. Military and helicopter pilots have different pay scales but also enjoy additional allowances.

2. How much does it cost to become a pilot in India?

Becoming a commercial pilot in India typically costs ₹25–50 lakhs, depending on the flying school, aircraft type, and whether training is done in India or abroad.

3. Is JEE required for pilot?

No, JEE is not required to become a pilot. You only need to clear Class 12 with Physics & Math (or bridging courses for arts/commerce students under 2026 rules), along with DGCA medicals and flying school entry requirements.

4. How to become a pilot in India for a girl?

The process is the same for both male and female candidates. After Class 12, girls can enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school, complete training hours, pass exams, and obtain a CPL. Many airlines in India actively encourage female pilots through special recruitment drives.

5. How to become a pilot in India for free?

You can become a pilot without paying training costs by joining the Indian Air Force through the NDA (after 12th) or AFCAT (after graduation). The Air Force covers training expenses and pays you a salary while you train.

6. What should I study after 12th to become a pilot?

You should study Physics and Mathematics in 12th if aiming for a CPL. However, under 2026 DGCA reforms, arts/commerce students may also qualify after completing bridging courses in these subjects.

7. How can I study pilot after 10th?

You cannot directly start pilot training after 10th. Instead, you can:
Take Science (PCM) in 12th to pursue CPL, or
Prepare for the NDA exam after 12th to join the Air Force as a pilot.

8. How to become a pilot in India with less money?

Opt for the Air Force route (NDA/AFCAT), where training is fully funded.
Apply for airline cadet programs with financing options.
Explore bank education loans and scholarships offered by state governments or aviation academies.

How to Become a Pilot in India (2026): Eligibility, Salary & Career Path