Beyond Dawlish
How to Become a Pilot After 12th: A Complete Guide
Becoming a pilot is a dream career for many students, especially those who aspire to soar high above the clouds and take command of an aircraft. If you're wondering how to become a pilot after 12th, you've come to the right place. This detailed guide will walk you through the steps, requirements, courses, and costs involved in pursuing a career as a pilot in India.
Why Choose a Career as a Pilot?
Before diving into how to become a pilot after 12th, it's essential to understand why this career path is so appealing. Being a pilot is not only a prestigious and high-paying profession, but it also offers the opportunity to travel the world, experience different cultures, and enjoy an adventurous lifestyle. Additionally, pilots are in high demand globally, ensuring excellent job security.
Eligibility Criteria for Becoming a Pilot After 12th
To start your journey on how to become a pilot after 12th, you must meet the following basic eligibility criteria:
- Age: The minimum age requirement is 17 years to begin training.
- Educational Qualification: You must have completed your 12th grade with Physics, Mathematics, and English as compulsory subjects from a recognized board.
- Medical Fitness: You must pass a Class 1 Medical Examination conducted by a certified medical examiner approved by DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) in India.
How to Become a Pilot After 12th: Step-by-Step Process
The process of how to become a pilot after 12th involves several stages, from choosing the right training institute to earning your license. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Research Pilot Training Institutes
The first step is to find reputable pilot training schools approved by the DGCA. Popular institutes in India include Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA), CAE Oxford Aviation Academy, and Bombay Flying Club.
2. Clear the Entrance Exam
To join top flying schools, you may need to clear entrance exams that test your knowledge in Physics, Mathematics, English, and Aptitude.
3. Join a Flying School
Once you clear the entrance exam, enroll in a DGCA-approved flying school. The training is divided into:
- Ground Training: Focuses on theoretical knowledge like navigation, meteorology, air regulations, etc.
- Flight Training: Provides practical flying experience under the guidance of experienced instructors.
4. Obtain a Student Pilot License (SPL)
This is the first license you will receive during your training. You need to pass an oral exam and a medical test.
5. Obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL)
After completing at least 40 hours of flying, you can apply for a Private Pilot License. This allows you to fly aircraft for non-commercial purposes.
6. Obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
To become a professional pilot, you need a Commercial Pilot License. You must complete a minimum of 200 hours of flying and pass written exams conducted by DGCA.
7. Type Rating (If Needed)
If you wish to fly large commercial aircraft, you will need specific training called Type Rating, which involves flying a particular type of aircraft.
Cost of Becoming a Pilot in India (In Rupees)
The cost of how to become a pilot after 12th can be quite high, depending on the institute and type of training. Here's a breakdown:
- Private Pilot License (PPL): INR 8–10 lakhs
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): INR 20–35 lakhs
- Type Rating (If required): INR 15–25 lakhs
Skills Required to Become a Pilot
- Excellent Communication Skills
- Strong Hand-Eye Coordination
- Situational Awareness
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Decision-Making Ability
- Physical and Mental Fitness
Career Opportunities After Becoming a Pilot
Once you have earned your CPL, various career paths are available, such as:
- Commercial Airline Pilot
- Cargo Pilot
- Flight Instructor
- Corporate Pilot
- Military Pilot (With additional training)
Salary of Pilots in India
The starting salary for commercial pilots in India ranges from INR 1.5 to 3 lakhs per month. With experience, this figure can rise significantly, especially when flying for reputed airlines.
Conclusion
Learning how to become a pilot after 12th is an exciting journey that requires dedication, passion, and financial investment. If you have the right skills, meet the eligibility criteria, and are ready to work hard, the sky is truly the limit. Take the first step today by researching reputable flying schools and preparing for entrance exams. With the right guidance, your dream of becoming a pilot can become a reality.
