How to Become a Pilot After 12th in India: Courses, Steps, Eligibility, Training & Salary for Male and Female Aspirants

Flying an aircraft has long captured the imagination of many individuals. This career offers the unique thrill of soaring above the clouds and experiencing the world from a new perspective. In recent years, this aspiration has become even more relevant due to the rapid growth of the Indian aviation industry.

As India’s economy continues to grow steadily, air travel has become more accessible to the citizens of the country. This rising demand has created a greater need for professionally trained pilots. This surge is driven by factors like booming tourism, new domestic and international routes, and government support for regional airlines.

For those wanting to be pilots, aviation offers a chance at a rewarding yet challenging career path. However, it can become fulfilling and within reach when approached with the right guidance, willpower and effort.

This detailed guide outlines how to become a commercial pilot after 12th and how to become a loco pilot after 12th, including license requirements and career steps.

How To Become a Pilot After 12th?

Becoming a pilot in India is a step-by-step journey. Candidates are required to fulfil specific educational requirements, undergo rigorous flight training, and obtain relevant licenses. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has set clear rules that every aspiring pilot must follow. We have summarised how to become a pilot in India after 12th in the table below:

What to Study to Become a Pilot After 12th?

The qualification to become a pilot in India depends on the type of license you are pursuing, such as a Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).

In addition to general guidelines set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), individual flying schools may have their specific requirements. Below is a table that outlines how to become a commercial pilot after 12th, and more:

How To Become a Female Pilot After 12th?

Women have equal opportunities as men to become pilots in India. Female aspirants follow the same steps as male candidates after Class 12. There are also special scholarships and programmes available to support women in aviation. The table below summarises how to become a female pilot after 12th:

How To Become a Pilot After Graduation?

For graduates who wish to build a career in aviation, several pathways are available. Having a graduation degree offers an advantage, as candidates are typically more mature and may be better qualified for advanced training or management roles in the aviation sector. The top aviation career options after graduation are as follows:

Eligibility Requirements for Becoming a Pilot in India

Flying an aircraft demands a high level of physical and medical fitness. These requirements apply to both male and female candidates, with only a few gender-specific considerations. We have outlined the key requirements for becoming a pilot in India:

Selection Process: How To Become a Pilot After 12th?

After fulfilling the necessary eligibility criteria, aspiring pilots can begin the application process for a pilot training programme. India is home to several flying schools, each offering unique advantages. While selecting a training institution, candidates should consider important factors such as:

• Programme cost – Includes tuition fees, flying hours, and living expenses
• School reputation – Based on alumni success, approvals by DGCA, and industry links
• Geographic location – Proximity, climate suitability for flying, and accessibility

The admission process generally involves three main stages:

Once candidates get admission to the programme, they need to undergo a comprehensive two-year training programme consisting of the following:

Ground School

• Covers aerodynamics, aircraft systems, aviation regulations, and navigation techniques
• Focuses on the theoretical knowledge required to pass DGCA exams

Flight Training

• Conducted under the supervision of certified flight instructors
• Involves hands-on flying experience, accumulating hours required for the Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

How to Become a Loco Pilot After 12th?

A loco pilot is a trained professional responsible for driving trains and ensuring that they are well-maintained throughout the journey. Their main job is to operate the train safely and follow all railway regulations. We have outlined the steps on how to become a loco pilot after 12th:

Final Thoughts

From understanding eligibility criteria to navigating flight schools, licensing, and physical requirements, the process of becoming a pilot can be difficult but very rewarding. Women are now receiving more support in aviation, and graduates have a wide range of job opportunities, making the field more inclusive and expansive. Ultimately, with the proper guidance and perseverance, aspiring pilots can transform their passion for the skies into a fulfilling and successful career.

FAQs

Q1. How can I become an airline pilot?

A1: To become an airline pilot, you need to gain extensive flight experience and obtain the necessary certifications, including a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Instrument Rating, and potentially an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license.

Q2. How many years does it take to become a pilot?

A2: It takes a significant amount of time and training to become a pilot, varying depending on the specific path and desired level of certification. Generally, it can take between 1 and 5 years, from completing high school (Class 12) to obtaining a commercial pilot's license (CPL) or becoming a pilot for a major airline.

Q3. What should I study to become a pilot after 10th?

A3: To become a pilot after the 10th, you should choose the Science stream in 10+2, focusing on Physics and Mathematics. You'll also need to fulfil specific eligibility requirements, including a minimum age of 16 for a Student Pilot License and 17 for a Private Pilot License.

Q4. What qualifications are required to become a pilot?

A4: To become a pilot, aspiring pilots must first complete secondary education (10+2), ideally with a background in Physics and Mathematics. They must then complete flight training at an approved flying school or aviation academy, passing both theoretical and practical examinations.
Additionally, they need to obtain the necessary pilot licenses, starting with a Student Pilot License and progressing through a Private Pilot License to a Commercial Pilot License.

Q5. Can a female candidate become a pilot after 12th?

A5: Yes. A female candidate can become a pilot after completing 12th grade. To pursue a career as a pilot, they need to meet the basic requirements, which include passing 12th grade with Science subjects (Physics and Mathematics) and potentially attending a flight training programme.
The Indian Air Force also offers opportunities for women to become pilots after completing their 12th grade through the National Defence Academy (NDA).

Q6. Can I become a pilot after 12th without Science?

A6: Yes. You can become a pilot after completing your 12th-grade education, even without a science background; however, additional steps are involved. If you didn’t study these subjects in school, you can bridge the gap through:

• Bridge Courses – Short-term courses in math and physics aligned with DGCA standards.
• Certifications – Private certifications from recognised programmes that meet aviation requirements.
• Guided Self-Study – With proper resources and guidance, self-study is also a valid path, as long as it meets DGCA standards.