Top 8 Best Flying Schools in India: A Complete Guide for Aspiring Pilots

The demand for skilled pilots in India is soaring, driven by the rapid expansion of both domestic and international airlines. With the aviation industry projecting thousands of new pilot jobs in the coming years, choosing the right flying school has never been more important for aspiring aviators. The best flying schools in India don’t just offer DGCA-approved training—they provide world-class fleets, modern simulators, experienced instructors, and a training environment that prepares you for a successful aviation career. In this guide, we’ve ranked the Top 8 Flying Schools in India for 2025, so you can compare their strengths, locations, and unique offerings before taking your first step towards the cockpit.

Rank	Flying School	Location	DGCA Approved	Fleet Highlights	Best For
1	Dunes Aviation Academy	Bhavnagar & Bhilwara	✅	Cessna 172, Piper Archer DX, Diamond DA42, Redbird FMX simulator	Comprehensive CPL with multi-engine & simulator training
2	National Flying Training Institute (NFTI)	Gondia, Maharashtra	✅	Diamond DA40 & DA42 fleet, modern simulator	Airline-oriented CPL training
3	The Bombay Flying Club	Mumbai, Maharashtra	✅	Cessna 152, P68C, P92JS	Legacy pilot training & PPL/CPL programs
4	Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA)	Amethi, Uttar Pradesh	✅	Diamond DA40, Zlin aircraft	Government-run, highly competitive CPL
5	Madhya Pradesh Flying Club (MPFC)	Indore & Bhopal, MP	✅	Cessna 152/172, P68C	Affordable CPL training in low-traffic airspace
6	Ahmedabad Aviation & Aeronautics Ltd (AAAL)	Ahmedabad, Gujarat	✅	Cessna 152/172, Piper Seneca	CPL & PPL with Gujarat base advantage
7	Rajiv Gandhi Academy for Aviation Technology (RAGAAT)	Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala	✅	Cessna 172, Piper Seneca	State-run, CPL with coastal flying conditions
8	Orient Flights Aviation Academy	Mysuru, Karnataka	✅	Cessna 172, Piper Seneca	CPL & ME training in favourable weather

Primary Requirements to Join a Flying School in India (2025)

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the training schools themselves have certain requirements that must be met in order to become a pilot. Before enrolling in a DGCA-approved flight school in 2025, aspiring pilots need know the following:

1. Age Requirement:

To start training for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), you must be at least 17 years old. Some schools may let you start a Private Pilot License (PPL) program at 16 years old.

2. Education Level:

Must have passed 10+2 (or an equivalent level) from a board that is recognized. You have to take Physics and Math. You can finish Physics or Math later through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) or another recognized board if you didn’t take them in school.

3. Minimum Academic Performance:

At least 50% of the total marks in Physics and Math in 12th grade. According to DGCA rules, candidates from reserved categories must have at least 45%. Some of the best schools may have higher cut-off scores since they get a lot of applications.

4. Health and fitness:

Before you can start flying CPL, you need to have a valid DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate. Tests check your eyesight, hearing, heart health, and overall wellness. People who want to fly alone must have Class 1, however they can take Class 2 Medical for PPL or early ground lessons.

5. Ability to Speak English:

For DGCA to provide a pilot a license, they must be able to speak English at least at the ICAO Level 4 level. Good communication skills are very important for flying, safety, and getting a job with an airline.

6. Tests for entrance and aptitude:

A lot of schools give their own tests or interviews to get into school. Some people look at the outcomes of the DGCA Computer-Based Test (CBT). In well-known schools, you may expect to take basic aptitude and psychometric tests to see how well you can make decisions, be aware of space, and solve problems.

7. Passion and Dedication:

In addition to meeting formal qualifications, great pilots also have strong discipline, mental toughness, and a real love for flying. The training is hard, takes a lot of time, and requires both technical expertise and emotional stability.

Pro Tip for 2025 Applicants: Start your DGCA medical process early and review the basics of math and physics before you join. This will help you get through ground school faster and do better on the DGCA examinations.

How to Choose the Best Flying School in India (2025)

Choosing the appropriate flight school is one of the most significant things you can do for your aviation career. The appropriate option will not only help you meet DGCA licensing criteria, but it will also affect how you train, how you improve your skills, and the work opportunities you will have in the future. Here are the most important things that every person who wants to be a pilot should think about by 2025:

1. Approval and Accreditation from the DGCA:

Check to see if the school is a DGCA-approved Flying Training Organization (FTO) before you sign up. To make sure they are approved and have the right training programs, check the most recent list on the DGCA website.

2. Quality and variety of the fleet

Look for newer planes that are in good shape. It would be best if they had glass cockpits to give you more experience with advanced avionics. Schools that teach you how to fly more than one engine (such the Diamond DA42 or Piper Seneca) give you an edge over other students.

3. Simulator Rooms

A full-motion simulator of good quality, like the Redbird FMX or one like it, lets you safely and cheaply rehearse complicated situations. Integrated simulator time also helps you get ready for airline tests.

4. Experience of the instructor

The best schools hire DGCA-certified teachers who have flown for an airline or the military. When there are fewer students per instructor, the training is more customized.

5. Weather Conditions and Location

Training bases with little air traffic and good weather help keep delays to a minimum. Flying conditions all year round can cut down on the time it takes to finish your CPL.

6. Structure and Timeline for Training

Check to see how well the institution arranges both flights and ground classes. A well-planned program keeps people from having to wait a lengthy time between flights.

7. Assistance with Placement and Airline Partnerships

Schools with strong ties to the business world can help students get airline cadet programs or interviews once they graduate. Placement history is a solid sign that the industry knows about you.

8. Clear Costs

Make sure that all fees are explicit, such as the hourly rates for the aircraft, the costs of the simulator, the expenses of the exam, and the costs of the hotel. Watch out for hidden costs that could suddenly raise your budget.

9. Reviews from students and alumni success

Real feedback from students gives you a good idea of how good the training, facilities, and management are. The school’s reputation is shown by the success of its alumni in airlines or business aviation.

2025 Insight: Schools with two training bases, such as those that combine coastal and interior areas or high- and low-traffic airspace, provide students more options for training, which cuts down on downtime and helps them learn new skills faster.

Top 8 Flying Schools in India 2025

1. The Dunes Aviation Academy

Dunes Aviation Academy is a DGCA-approved flying school that trains pilots to the highest standards at its two locations in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, and Bhilwara, Rajasthan. Dunes has a modern fleet, skilled instructors, and a specialized ground school in Ahmedabad. This means that students can get their CPL goals done quickly and easily, even when the weather is good and there isn’t much air traffic.

Fleet Highlights:

• Cessna 172 (Analog and Glass Cockpit)
• Piper Archer DX
• Diamond DA42 Multi-Engine Plane
• Full-Motion Simulator by Redbird FMX

Courses Offered:

Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Program

• 3–4 months of ground training in Ahmedabad
• 185 hours on single-engine aircraft
• 15 hours on multi-engine (Diamond DA42)
• 20 hours of simulator training
• Subjects: Air regulations, Aviation meteorology, Air navigation, Radio telephony, Technical general & specific aircraft systems

Private Pilot License (PPL) Program

• Duration: ~5 months
• 2 months of ground school
• 3 months of flight training at Bhavnagar/Bhilwara
• Covers DGCA syllabus for air regulations, meteorology, navigation
• 50 hours of single-engine flying

License Conversion Course

• Conversion of foreign CPL to Indian DGCA CPL
• Multi-engine and single-engine options available
• Additional flying hours as per DGCA requirements
• Complete assistance for DGCA conversion exams

Flight Instructor Rating (FIR) Program (Advanced)

• For CPL holders
• Comprehensive instructional training
• Focus on flight safety, teaching techniques, and student handling
• Prepares candidates for certification as DGCA-approved instructors

Key Advantages of Dunes Aviation Academy:

• Dual Training Bases: Bhavnagar & Bhilwara — low air traffic, favorable weather year-round
• Modern Fleet: Cessna 172, Piper Archer DX, Diamond DA42 multi-engine aircraft
• Advanced Simulator: Redbird FMX full-motion simulator for realistic training scenarios
• Efficient Training Schedule: Minimized delays due to airspace or weather
• Experienced Faculty: DGCA-certified instructors with airline experience
• Upcoming Night Flying Facility at Bhilwara for extended training capability

Choose Dunes Aviation Academy to fast-track your aviation career with a proven training environment, state-of-the-art equipment, and an unwavering commitment to producing skilled, confident pilots.

2. National Flying Training Institute (NFTI)

CAE Gondia, formerly the National Flying Training Institute (NFTI), is a premier flight training facility established in 2007 as a joint venture between the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and CAE. It delivers ICAO and DGCA-compliant pilot training.

Key Highlights:

• Diamond DA40 and DA42 modern fleet
• Experienced instructors from global aviation backgrounds
• Comprehensive on-campus facilities
• CPL with Instrument Rating (IR) and Multi-Engine Rating (MER)

3. The Bombay Flying Club

Founded in 1928, The Bombay Flying Club is one of India’s oldest aviation training institutes. Based at Juhu Aerodrome, it has a rich history in producing skilled pilots for both civil and commercial aviation.

Key Highlights:

• Fleet includes Cessna 152, Cessna 172, P68C
• Offers CPL, PPL, and Flight Instructor Rating
• Legacy institution with deep industry recognition
• DGCA-approved training programs

4. Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA)

Established in 1985 in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, IGRUA is India’s first national flying academy and operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Known for its strict selection process and high training standards.

Key Highlights:

• Fleet: Diamond DA40, Zlin aircraft
• Government-run, high credibility
• Integrated CPL with Multi-Engine Rating
• Alumni in leading Indian and international airlines

5. Madhya Pradesh Flying Club (MPFC)

Operating since 1951, MPFC has training bases in Indore and Bhopal. It is recognized for affordable training and low-traffic airspace, allowing faster flight hour accumulation.

Key Highlights:

• Cessna 152/172 and P68C fleet
• Offers CPL, PPL, and renewal training
• DGCA-approved, state-supported
• Ideal for cost-conscious students

6. Ahmedabad Aviation & Aeronautics Ltd (AAAL)

Located at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad, AAAL is known for its well-maintained fleet and strategic location for pilot training.

Key Highlights:

• Fleet: Cessna 152/172, Piper Seneca
• DGCA-approved CPL, PPL, and instructor programs
• Experienced instructor team
• Convenient Gujarat base for regional students

7. Rajiv Gandhi Academy for Aviation Technology (RAGAAT)

Based in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, RAGAAT is a state-run flying academy offering professional pilot training with a focus on coastal flying conditions.

Key Highlights:

• Fleet: Cessna 172, Piper Seneca
• DGCA-approved CPL and Multi-Engine training
• Coastal base with varied weather exposure
• Government-supported institution

8. Orient Flights Aviation Academy

Located in Mysuru, Karnataka, Orient Flights provides year-round training in favorable weather with access to modern aircraft and simulators.

Key Highlights:

• Fleet: Cessna 172, Piper Seneca
• CPL, PPL, and Multi-Engine Rating programs
• DGCA-approved training modules
• Hostel and campus facilities for students

FAQs – Best Flying Schools in India (2025)

1. Which is the best flying school in India?

While several DGCA-approved schools offer excellent training, Dunes Aviation Academy stands out in 2025 for its dual training bases, modern fleet, full-motion simulator, and efficient CPL program completion rates.

2. How much does a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) cost in India?

The cost of CPL training in India typically ranges between ₹35–55 lakh depending on the school, aircraft type, simulator facilities, and location.

3. What is the minimum eligibility to join a flying school in India?

You must be at least 17 years old, have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics, hold a valid DGCA Class 1 Medical Certificate, and meet the school’s admission requirements.

4. How long does it take to complete CPL training in India?

CPL training generally takes 12–18 months if weather, aircraft availability, and scheduling are favorable.

5. Are DGCA-approved flying schools better than foreign schools?

DGCA-approved schools ensure your license is valid in India without the need for conversion. Training abroad may require additional DGCA exams and flying hours to meet Indian regulations.

6. Can I get a job after completing CPL in India?

Yes, but most airlines require CPL holders with Multi-Engine Rating, Instrument Rating, and sometimes additional hours. Some schools assist with airline placement programs.

7. Is English proficiency required for pilot training in India?

Yes. DGCA mandates ICAO Level 4 English proficiency for license issuance to ensure safe and effective communication.

8. Do Indian flying schools provide hostel facilities?

Many DGCA-approved schools provide on-campus or nearby hostel accommodation for students, though availability and cost vary by institution.