How to Become a Pilot After 12th: A Life-Changing Step-by-Step Guide

How to Become a Pilot After 12th
Table Of Contents
  1. How to Become a Pilot After 12th
  2. Why Choose a Career as a Pilot?
  3. Types of Pilots
  4. Steps to Becoming a Pilot After 12th
  5. How to Become a Pilot Abroad
  6. Cost of Pilot Training
  7. Conclusion

Becoming a pilot is a dream shared by many students after completing their 12th-grade education. It’s a prestigious career that offers adventure, excellent pay, and the chance to travel around the world. But how do you turn this dream into reality after 12th? In this guide, we will provide a comprehensive roadmap to help you become a successful pilot. How to Become a Pilot After 12th

How to Become a Pilot After 12th

Why Choose a Career as a Pilot?

Being a pilot offers a blend of excitement and responsibility. Pilots not only fly aircraft but also ensure the safety of passengers and cargo. The thrill of flying coupled with an attractive salary makes it a sought-after profession.

Some key reasons for choosing this career include:

Types of Pilots

Before delving into the path to becoming a pilot, it’s essential to know the different types of pilots you can become:

  1. Commercial Pilot: This is the most common type of pilot. They fly for airlines or private companies, carrying passengers or cargo.
  2. Private Pilot: Private pilots usually fly for personal enjoyment and non-commercial purposes.
  3. Airline Transport Pilot (ATP): This is the highest level of certification and allows you to be the captain of an airline aircraft.
  4. Military Pilot: Trained in the armed forces, military pilots are responsible for operating military aircraft in various situations, including combat.

Steps to Becoming a Pilot After 12th

Step 1: Choose the Right Stream in 12th

The journey to becoming a pilot begins in school. After 10th grade, students need to choose the right stream for their 12th studies. The most preferred option for aspiring pilots is Science with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry as core subjects. This is because most pilot training programs and entrance exams require a strong foundation in these subjects.

Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Criteria

To become a pilot in India or internationally, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements:

Step 3: Enroll in a Pilot Training Course

After completing your 12th, you’ll need to enroll in a pilot training institute. There are several flying schools in India and abroad that offer various programs, including:

Step 4: Clear the Entrance Exam

Most pilot training institutes require you to clear an entrance exam before admission. Some common exams include:

These exams test your knowledge of Physics, Mathematics, English, and general aptitude. Some may also include psychometric and pilot aptitude tests.

Step 5: Obtain a Student Pilot License (SPL)

Before you start your full-fledged training, you need to acquire a Student Pilot License (SPL). This is the basic license that allows you to start flying under supervision. You will need to:

Step 6: Accumulate Flying Hours

To obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), you need to complete a minimum of 200 hours of flying time. These flying hours include both solo flights and flights with an instructor. It’s essential to accumulate enough flight experience and practice to become proficient in flying.

Most pilot schools have simulators and advanced aircraft for you to gain hands-on experience.

Step 7: Clear the DGCA Exams

In India, you will need to pass the DGCA theory exams to get your CPL. These exams test your knowledge in various subjects such as:

Passing these exams is mandatory for obtaining your CPL and becoming a certified pilot.

Step 8: Apply for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Once you have cleared the exams and accumulated the required flying hours, you can apply for your Commercial Pilot License from the DGCA or the equivalent authority in your country. The application process involves submitting your training records, medical certificates, and exam results.

Step 9: Join an Airline or Private Charter

After acquiring your CPL, you can apply for jobs with airlines or private charter companies. Many airlines also offer cadet programs, where you undergo further training specific to that airline before becoming a full-fledged commercial pilot.

Step 10: Keep Your License Updated

Your CPL is valid for a limited time and needs to be renewed regularly. To keep your license updated, you’ll need to undergo periodic medical exams and complete specific flight hours every year.

How to Become a Pilot Abroad

If you’re looking to become a pilot outside of India, the process is quite similar, though there may be some variations in terms of eligibility and exams. In countries like the USA, Canada, and the UK, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulate pilot licensing. Here are some points to keep in mind:

Cost of Pilot Training

The cost of becoming a pilot is significant and depends on various factors such as the country, flying school, and type of license. On average, the cost ranges between INR 25 to 40 lakhs in India for obtaining a CPL. Training in countries like the USA or Canada can range from $70,000 to $100,000. This amount typically covers tuition fees, flying hours, accommodation, and miscellaneous costs.

Some students opt for education loans to cover these expenses. In some cases, airlines also sponsor training through cadet programs.

Conclusion

Becoming a pilot after the 12th is a challenging yet rewarding journey. From completing your education in science to enrolling in a flying school and finally obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), the path requires dedication, hard work, and financial investment. With the right training, however, you can achieve your dream of flying the skies and exploring the world.

Read more: Apply for Learning License, Driving License Online, and Download PDF

FAQs

  1. What subjects should I choose after the 10th if I want to become a pilot?
    You should choose the Science stream with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry as your core subjects in 11th and 12th grade.
  2. What is the minimum age to apply for a pilot’s license?
    You need to be at least 17 years old to apply for a Student Pilot License (SPL) and 18 years old for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
  3. What are the medical requirements for becoming a pilot?
    You must pass a Class I medical examination conducted by an authorized medical examiner, which includes checks for vision, hearing, and overall physical fitness.
  4. How much does it cost to become a pilot?
    Pilot training can cost anywhere between INR 25 to 40 lakhs in India and $70,000 to $100,000 abroad, depending on the training institute and the country.
  5. Can I become a pilot without taking any entrance exams?
    Most pilot training institutes and cadet programs require you to pass an entrance exam that assesses your knowledge of Physics, Mathematics, and English, along with your aptitude for flying.
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