How to Become a Pilot – Eligibility, Fees & Training Process
As one of the most sought-after professions in India, it is no surprise that thousands of students dream about how to become a pilot. The thrill of flying an aircraft, wearing the Captain’s uniform, and taking responsibility for passenger safety is truly unmatched.
With the rapid growth of the Indian aviation sector, the demand for skilled and professional pilots is at an all-time high. 70Knots Aviation answers all your questions and concerns about how to become a pilot after 10th and 12th, offering expert guidance at every step of the journey.
Your journey begins by identifying the type of pilot you want to become. You can choose to be:
- An Airline (Commercial) Pilot
- A Private Pilot
- A Defence Pilot (Air Force, Navy, or Army)
Why Choose a Career as a Pilot?
Before understanding how to become a pilot, let’s look at why this career is so appealing:
- ✈️ Global travel opportunities – Pilots fly to domestic and international destinations and operate advanced aircraft.
- 📈 High industry growth – Commercial and private aviation is growing rapidly in India and worldwide.
- 💰 Attractive salary packages – Captains earn high salaries, with additional income through overtime and international routes.
- 🎖️ Prestige and respect – Being a pilot carries immense social recognition and pride.
Is It Possible to Become a Pilot After 10th?
Short answer: Not immediately — but you can start preparing early.
What You Can Do After 10th
- Choose Science stream with Physics & Mathematics in 11th and 12th
- Improve English communication skills
- Maintain physical and mental fitness
- Learn basic aviation concepts
- Take career counseling from aviation experts like 70Knots Aviation
Early planning makes the path of how to become a pilot much smoother after 12th.
How to Become a Pilot After 12th
After completing 12th with Physics and Mathematics, you are eligible to start pilot training.
Minimum Educational Qualification
- 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics
- Open schooling (NIOS) candidates are accepted
- Good command of English
Types of Pilots You Can Become
Choosing the right pilot category is the first major step in how to become a pilot.
1. Commercial Pilot (Airline Pilot)
Job: Fly passengers or cargo for airlines
Requirement: Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Remarks: Most popular option due to high salary and career growth
2. Private Pilot (PPL)
Job: Fly for personal or recreational purposes
Requirement: Cannot fly for compensation
Remarks: Shorter and more affordable training
3. Defence Pilot
Job: Operate military aircraft
Requirement: NDA / CDS / AFCAT selection
Remarks: Highly competitive with strict physical standards
This guide mainly focuses on how to become a commercial pilot, which is the core expertise of 70Knots Aviation.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Become a Pilot (Commercial)
Step 1: DGCA Class 2 Medical Examination
Before starting flight training, you must clear a DGCA-approved Class 2 medical exam, including:
- Vision & hearing
- Blood pressure
- ECG
- General health checks
70Knots Aviation assists students with medical appointments and preparation.
Step 2: Choose the Right Flight Training Path
You can:
- Train in India, or
- Train abroad and convert the license to DGCA
70Knots Aviation helps you select the best option based on budget, timeline, and career goals.
Step 3: DGCA Ground Classes
You must pass DGCA exams in:
- Air Navigation
- Meteorology
- Air Regulations
- Technical General
- Technical Specific
70Knots Aviation provides structured ground school training, expert faculty, study materials, and mock exams.
Step 4: Flight Training (200 Hours)
You must complete a minimum of 200 flying hours, including:
- Solo flying
- Cross-country flights
- Night flying
- Instrument flying
Training is available in India and abroad (USA, Australia, South Africa, etc.).
Step 5: DGCA Class 1 Medical Examination
A more detailed medical exam required before applying for a CPL, ensuring fitness for airline operations.
Step 6: Obtain Your Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Once you have:
- Passed DGCA exams
- Completed flying hours
- Cleared medicals
You officially become a licensed commercial pilot.
Cost of Pilot Training in India
The cost depends on the training location and route.
Estimated Cost:
- India: ₹35–45 Lakhs
- Abroad: ₹40–55 Lakhs
Cost Includes:
- Ground school
- Flight training
- DGCA exams
- Medicals
- License conversion (if applicable)
70Knots Aviation helps students plan finances and avoid hidden costs.
Pilot Eligibility Requirements
- Age: 17 years and above
- Education: 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics
- English proficiency
- DGCA Class 1 & 2 medicals
Career Opportunities After Becoming a Pilot
With a CPL, you can work as:
- Airline First Officer
- Charter Pilot
- Cargo Pilot
- Business Jet Pilot
- Helicopter Pilot (additional training)
With experience, pilots are promoted to Captain.
Salary of Commercial Pilots in India
- Trainee First Officer: ₹1.5–3 Lakh/month
- First Officer: ₹4–7 Lakh/month
- Captain: ₹6–10 Lakh/month and above
International airlines offer even higher salaries.
Why Choose 70Knots Aviation?
70Knots Aviation provides complete support for students exploring how to become a pilot.
What They Offer
- Career counseling after 10th & 12th
- DGCA ground classes
- Flight school selection (India & abroad)
- Medical guidance
- End-to-end pilot training support
- Transparent mentorship
Common Myths About Becoming a Pilot
Myth 1: You must be excellent at math
👉 Basic math and physics are sufficient with proper training.
Myth 2: Only rich students can become pilots
👉 With education loans and smart planning, it’s achievable.
Myth 3: You need perfect eyesight
👉 Correctable vision is acceptable under DGCA norms.
Final Words: Your Pilot Dream Starts Here
Understanding how to become a pilot may seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, the journey is clear and achievable.
70Knots Aviation supports you like a co-pilot — from school-level preparation to cockpit readiness. With expert mentoring, structured training, and honest advice, your dream of becoming a pilot can truly take flight ✈️