Everyone witnessed what happened recently in the aviation sector: a shortage of pilots, long queues at airports, cancelled flights, frustrated passengers, allegations of a monopoly, and the company’s attempts to defend itself.

The aviation sector in India is a rapidly growing force in the economy. Its contribution of US$53.6 million to the Indian economy and the employment it provides to over 7.5 million people are testament to this.

In 2024 alone, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued more than 1,300 commercial pilot licenses, indicating the addition of this many new pilots to the workforce this year.

In this episode of Career Connect, we’ll be talking about a job that’s dreamed of while standing on the ground, but which is actually performed in the sky – becoming a pilot.

How can one make it to the cockpit?

The first question that comes to mind is, how can one become a pilot? We got the answer from a pilot associated with a well-known airline company.

He explained that there are two ways to become a pilot in India. One is the traditional route that has been in place for many years, and the other is through an airline company’s cadet pilot program.

In both cases, the age requirement is 18 years. Additionally, it is mandatory to have scored 50 percent marks in 12th grade with Physics and Mathematics as subjects.

If someone comes from a Commerce or Arts background, they must pass the 12th-grade Physics and Mathematics exams through the National Institute of Open Schooling or any state board’s open examination.

The aviation regulatory body in India is the DGCA, which stands for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. The DGCA has authorized several doctors across the country to conduct the medical examinations required for pilot training.

Before starting pilot training, the student must possess a Class 2 Medical Certificate. This certificate is issued by a DGCA-approved doctor, who determines whether the individual is medically fit to undergo the training.

Following this,

there is a Class 1 Medical Examination, which is also conducted by the DGCA and administered by doctors approved by the Indian Air Force.

This exam certificate is required to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). It includes eye, ECG, blood, and ear, nose, and throat examinations.

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The cost of both examinations is approximately ten thousand rupees.

However, if someone has color blindness, they cannot become a pilot. Additionally, basic tests such as blood and urine tests are conducted initially. If someone fails even one of these tests, they cannot become a pilot.

A pilot is a professional trained to operate and navigate aircraft, ensuring the safety of passengers or cargo during flight. In 2025, the aviation industry remains one of the highest-paying sectors globally, though salaries vary significantly based on your rank, the type of aircraft you fly, and the airline you work for.

What is a Pilot?

A pilot’s job goes far beyond just flying. Their responsibilities include:

• Pre-flight: Checking weather, calculating fuel, and inspecting the aircraft for safety.

• In-flight: Navigating, communicating with Air Traffic Control, and monitoring complex mechanical systems.

• Post-flight: Filing reports and ensuring the aircraft is ready for the next crew.

Pilot Salaries in 2025

The salary structure for pilots is usually divided into a base pay and flying hour allowances.Here is a breakdown of what pilots typically earn in India and globally:

In India (Monthly Estimates)

Global Comparison (Annual Estimates)

• USA: Commercial pilots at major airlines (like Delta or United) earn between $150,000 and $450,000+ per year.

• Middle East: Airlines like Emirates or Qatar Airways offer tax-free packages ranging from $100,000 to $200,000+ annually, often including housing allowances.

Factors That Influence Salary

1. Aircraft Type: Pilots flying “Wide-body” aircraft (like the Boeing 777 or Airbus A350) earn much more than those flying “Narrow-body” regional jets (like the Airbus A320).

2. Route: International flights generally pay higher allowances and “per diems” (daily expenses) than domestic routes.

3. Experience: Pay scales are strictly based on “seniority.” The longer you stay with one airline, the higher your hourly rate becomes.

4. License Type: A pilot with an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) earns more than one with only a CPL (Commercial Pilot License).

Note: While the salary is high, the initial cost of training to become a pilot in India typically ranges from ₹50 Lakh to ₹1 Crore depending on the flight school and “Type Rating” (specific aircraft training).

Would you like me to find out the specific eligibility requirements or the best flight schools to start a career as a pilot?