How to become an airline pilot?

If flying is your passion, a career in flying aircraft is the one for you. Before you get ready to hit the skies, you have to enroll in a licensed pilot training program. This post gives you information on how to enroll for Pilot Training and the certification process for becoming a pilot.

The eligibility requirements call for a minimum 10+2 pass in mathematics, physics and English or an equivalent stream is a must. If you are from the arts or commerce stream and want to become a pilot, appear for physics and mathematics from open schools like the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). Proficiency in English and 18 years of age are also criteria.

Medical fitness is a top priority when it comes to pilot training and so you need to be 100% fit. There are two steps for medicals in pilot training;

• Class 2 medicals are conducted by DGCA-appointed doctors. Post medical test, your fitness certification is sent to the DGCA for the issue of medical assessment. The DGCA prepares the final medical assessment.
• Class 1 medicals is an initial assessment of your fitness carried out in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Johrat. The Class 1 assessment date is finalized after receiving the class 2 assessment reports.

Following the medicals are Police Verification Certificate, Computer Number, Ground Classes, and Student Pilot License.

The training involves both theory and practicals. The theory papers comprise multiple-choice questions. Depending on whether your choice is India or abroad the theory papers are chosen. Following this is your flight training; it is here the adventure unfolds.

Ground school is the first stage of flight training and covers the theoretical aspects of aviation, including aerodynamics, navigation, communication, regulations, and more.After completing ground school, you will start logging flight hours. The number of flight hours required to become a pilot in India varies depending on the type of license you are seeking, but you typically need to log at least 200 hours of flight time to obtain a commercial pilot’s license.

You will need to pass written exams that cover the knowledge you have acquired during ground school and flight training. The exams are conducted by the DGCA. After logging the required flight hours and passing the written exams, you must pass a practical test, with a DGCA approved examiner. This involves a flight test and an oral exam that covers the knowledge and skills you have acquired during your training.

Once you have passed the practical test, you will be issued a pilot’s license by the DGCA. You will need to renew your license every five years and complete ongoing training to maintain your certification.

A pilot license makes you eligible for an interview but whether you land a good job or not depends on your flight training. Choosing the right flying school is crucial for the success of your pilot career. Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to selecting a pilot training school!