How to Become a Pilot

Your step-by-step journey to the skies

Pilot Demand

Pilot demand is at record highs globally. According to Boeing’s 2023 outlook, the aviation industry will need over 600,000 new pilots worldwide by 2040. In India alone, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) projects a demand for 10,000–12,000 pilots by 2035, driven by the rapid growth of domestic carriers and international expansion.

  • Global airline fleet expected to double in 20 years.
  • Strong demand in Asia-Pacific, especially India and China.
  • Career stability with high salaries and international opportunities.
Pilot Demand

Minimum Requirements

  • Age: Minimum 17 years at the time of application.
  • Education: 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics (recognized board).
  • Medical: Class I Medical Certificate from DGCA-approved medical examiner.
  • Language: Proficiency in English (ICAO Level 4 or higher).
  • Citizenship: Open to Indian nationals and international applicants.
Requirements

Step-by-Step Path to Becoming a Pilot

1. Meet Eligibility

Complete 10+2 with Physics & Math and secure a Class I Medical Certificate.

2. Enroll in a Flight Academy

Join an approved pilot training organization like PilotUs Flight Academy.

3. Get Your CPL

Complete training and log the required flying hours for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

4. Join an Airline

After CPL, apply for airline selection programs, gain experience, and progress to ATPL.



A Complete Guide by PilotUs Pilot Training Academy

Becoming a pilot in India is an exciting and structured journey that involves academic qualifications, medical fitness, DGCA examinations, and flight training. At PilotUs Pilot Training Academy, we guide aspiring pilots through every theoretical, procedural, and regulatory step — from getting your DGCA Computer Number to understanding the conversion of a foreign Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) into an Indian CPL.

We are a Ground Training Academy, not a flying school — but we mentor and support you throughout, and recommend trusted flying schools in India and abroad, with no commissions or monetary interests. Our only goal is your success.


🧭 Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you begin, make sure you meet the following requirements:

  • Education: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics (recognized board).

  • Age: Minimum 16 years for a Student Pilot Licence (SPL), 18 years for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).

  • Medical Fitness:

    • Class 2 Medical for SPL or to start training.

    • Class 1 Medical for CPL and beyond.

  • Language: Good English communication skills are essential for global aviation operations.

Our team helps you understand DGCA rules and directs you to approved medical examiners to complete your aviation medicals smoothly.

 


πŸ–₯️ Step 2: Apply for DGCA Computer Number

The Computer Number is your unique DGCA registration ID that allows you to appear for official theory examinations such as Air Regulations, Meteorology, and Navigation.

PilotUs Faculty Assistance:

  • Step-by-step guidance on how to apply through the DGCA eGCA portal.

  • Help with filling forms, uploading documents, and avoiding common mistakes that cause rejections.

  • Linking your computer number to your DGCA student profile correctly.

With PilotUs, students complete this process confidently and correctly — saving weeks of confusion or delay.


πŸ“˜ Step 3: Ground Classes & DGCA Theory Preparation

Our academy specializes in DGCA Ground Classes. We cover all mandatory subjects:

  • Air Regulations

  • Navigation

  • Meteorology

  • Aircraft Technical (General & Specific)

  • Radio Telephony (RTR – in collaboration with approved training partners)

You will also receive mock tests, exam simulations, and one-on-one mentorship, ensuring you’re fully ready to pass DGCA exams in your first attempt.


✈️ Step 4: Choosing a Flying School (in India or Abroad)

After completing your ground school and DGCA exams, you’ll move to flying training to complete the required flying hours (typically around 200 hours for CPL).

PilotUs does not conduct flying training, but we go one step further — we guide you to choose the right school for your goals and budget.

Our Commitment:

  • We recommend only DGCA-approved flying schools in India or reputable ICAO-recognized schools abroad.

  • No commissions. No hidden deals. Unlike some institutions that earn from referrals, PilotUs’s advice is 100% student-centric.

  • We provide genuine feedback on schools’ aircraft availability, instructor quality, and training timelines.

Your decision remains transparent and informed.


🌍 Step 5: Conversion of Foreign CPL to Indian CPL

If you have completed your flying training or earned a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) from another country, you must convert it to an Indian CPL to fly in India.

PilotUs helps you through:

  1. Understanding DGCA’s conversion requirements.

  2. Compiling and verifying documentation (foreign CPL, logbook, verification letters).

  3. Guidance on DGCA exams you must appear for in India.

  4. Connecting you with DGCA-approved centers for your skill tests and check rides.

We simplify this process for our students and ensure that your paperwork is accurate and compliant before submission.


🧩 Step 6: Additional Endorsements & Ratings

After obtaining your CPL, you should further enhance your career with:

  • Instrument Rating (IR)

  • Multi-Engine Rating

  • Instructor Rating (FI)

  • Type Ratings (for specific aircraft once you join an airline)

PilotUs continues to mentor you even after you graduate, guiding you toward your next aviation milestones.


πŸ’‘ Why Choose PilotUs Pilot Training Academy?

PilotUs stands apart because of our ethics, experience, and expertise.

What We Offer

Why It Matters

Expert DGCA ground instructors

Learn from professionals with real aviation experience

Assistance with computer number & DGCA process

Avoid rejections and delays

Guidance for CPL conversion (Foreign to Indian)

Smooth, compliant transition

Support for medicals and document verification

Every form, every requirement — handled correctly

Honest flying school recommendations

No commissions — only genuine guidance

Post-training mentorship

Airline readiness, interviews, type rating guidance

At PilotUs, we guide — we don’t sell.


πŸ›« Your Journey Starts Here

Becoming a pilot in India requires patience, discipline, and the right mentorship. From understanding eligibility to converting your CPL, PilotUs Pilot Training Academy is your trusted partner every step of the way.

πŸ“ Location:
2nd Floor, C-389, Khasra 29/12, Temp Harijan Basti, Ramphal Chowk,
Palam Extension, Sector 7, Dwarka, New Delhi – 110077
πŸ‘‰ Find us on Google Maps

πŸ“ž Contact:
+91-9810295683 | +91-9873962799
πŸ“§ Email: pilotuspilotacademy@gmail.com

✨ Join PilotUs today — and take off toward your aviation dream!

By the Pilots, For the Pilots