Choosing the right aviation course starts with understanding whether you qualify. Every aviation career path in India — from flying commercial aircraft to maintaining them — comes with specific eligibility requirements set by DGCA and individual airlines.
This article breaks down the eligibility criteria for every major aviation course available to Indian students.
Not sure which career suits you? Talk to our aviation experts for free and get personalised eligibility guidance.
Commercial Pilot License (CPL) — Pilot Requirements
The CPL is the most popular aviation course for students who dream of flying for airlines like IndiGo, Air India, or Akasa Air. It is fully regulated by DGCA.
Age
You can begin at 16 with a Student Pilot License (SPL), move to a Private Pilot License (PPL) at 17, and apply for a CPL at 18. There is no upper age limit for training, though airlines typically prefer candidates under 32–35 for first officer roles.
Education
DGCA requires 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics from a recognised board. Most flying schools expect a minimum of 50% aggregate.
Important Update: DGCA has proposed removing the mandatory PCM requirement, allowing Arts and Commerce students to apply. The proposal is approved by DGCA but awaits final clearance from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Until notified, the PCM requirement remains.
Non-Science Students: You can qualify by clearing Physics and Maths through NIOS or any recognised open board.
DGCA Class 1 Medical
A Class 1 Medical Certificate is mandatory. Key requirements include:
- Distant Vision: 6/6 in one eye, 6/9 in the other (correctable with glasses/lenses)
- Colour Vision: Normal colour perception mandatory — severe colour blindness is a disqualification
- General: No epilepsy, psychiatric conditions, or heart disease; normal hearing; BMI within range
- Validity: 1 year (below 40), 6 months (above 40)
You can start with a Class 2 Medical during initial training and upgrade to Class 1 before solo flying.
Training & Exams
- DGCA Computer Number — Register on the Pariksha Portal (DGCA) before any exam
- 200 hours of flight training at a DGCA-approved Flying Training Organisation (FTO), including solo, cross-country, instrument, and night flying
- 5 DGCA ground exams — Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations, Technical General, Technical Specific (70% passing in each, 5-year validity)
- RTR(A) License — Radio Telephony exam, now conducted by DGCA
Estimated Cost: ₹45–75 lakhs depending on the pilot academy and location.
📖 How to Become a Pilot in India — Complete Guide
📖 DGCA CPL Exam Pattern & Syllabus 2026
📖 How to Clear DGCA Exams in First Attempt
Cabin Crew / Air Hostess — Eligibility Criteria
Cabin crew is one of the most accessible entry points into aviation. Eligibility is determined largely by individual airlines, though DGCA safety standards still apply.
Age
Most Indian airlines accept freshers between 18–27 years. Experienced cabin crew may apply up to 32–35 years. International airlines usually require minimum 21 years.
Education
10+2 from a recognised board (any stream). No mandatory subject requirement. A degree or diploma in hospitality or aviation is an advantage but not mandatory.
Height, Weight & Grooming
| Criteria | Female | Male |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Height | 155 cm (5'1") | 170 cm (5'7") |
| Weight | Proportionate to height (BMI) | Proportionate to height (BMI) |
| Arm Reach | 212 cm on tiptoes (some airlines) | 212 cm on tiptoes (some airlines) |
Grooming Standards:
- No visible tattoos while in uniform
- No prominent facial scars or skin conditions
- Well-maintained teeth with no major gaps
- Only single earlobe piercings (female); no facial piercings
- Professional, neat appearance mandatory
Medical & Vision
- Vision correctable to 6/6 (up to ±2.5 diopter)
- No colour blindness
- Normal hearing and healthy BMI
- Clear skin and general fitness
Language
Fluency in English and Hindi is mandatory. Additional languages (regional or international) are a strong advantage.
Estimated Cost: ₹50,000–₹2.5 lakhs for a cabin crew training course (3–6 months).
📖 How to Become Cabin Crew in India: Complete Guide 2026
Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) — Eligibility Criteria
No aircraft takes off without an AME's sign-off. The AME course is a DGCA-licensed program with strictly regulated eligibility.
Age
Minimum 16 years as per DGCA, though most institutes admit students at 17+ after completing 10+2.
Education
Two routes to qualify:
- Route 1: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) — minimum 50% marks
- Route 2: 3-year AICTE-approved diploma in Aeronautical, Mechanical, Electrical, or Electronics Engineering
Medical
- Physically and medically fit per DGCA guidelines
- No colour blindness (strictly enforced)
- No night blindness
- Good physical stamina for hangar work
Training & Licensing
The course is a 2-year academic program (2400 hours, 4 semesters) followed by 2 years of On-the-Job Training (OJT). After completion, candidates pass DGCA Module Exams to receive their AME license in categories like B1.1 (Mechanical – Jet), B1.3 (Helicopters), or B2 (Avionics).
Estimated Cost: ₹4–8 lakhs for the 2-year academic program.
Airport Ground Staff & Management — Eligibility Criteria
Ground staff roles cover passenger check-in, boarding, ramp handling, cargo, and customer service. These are the easiest aviation roles to enter.
Age
Minimum 18 years. Most employers hire up to 28–30 years for entry-level roles.
Education
- Minimum: 10+2 from a recognised board (any stream)
- Preferred: Graduation or diploma in Airport Management / Travel & Tourism
Physical & Other Requirements
- Fit to work in shifts (early morning, late night, rotational)
- Good communication in English and Hindi
- Pleasant personality and customer service orientation
- Regional language proficiency is a bonus for non-metro airports
Key Employers: IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, Air India SATS, Celebi Aviation, Menzies Aviation, GMR, Adani Airports.
Estimated Cost: ₹30,000–₹75,000 lakhs for an airport management diploma (3–6 months).
Eligibility at a Glance
| Criteria | Commercial Pilot | Cabin Crew | AME | Ground Staff |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min. Age | 16 (SPL), 18 (CPL) | 18 years | 16–17 years | 18 years |
| Education | 10+2 with Physics & Maths | 10+2 (any stream) | 10+2 PCM (50%) or Diploma | 10+2 (any stream) |
| Medical | DGCA Class 1 | Airline medical | DGCA (no colour blindness) | Basic fitness |
| Height | None | 155 cm (F) / 170 cm (M) | None | None |
| Training | 18–24 months | 3–6 months | 2 yrs + 2 yrs OJT | 3–6 months |
| Cost | ₹45–75 lakhs | ₹50K–₹2.5L | ₹4–8 lakhs | ₹30K–₹70,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become a pilot without Physics and Maths?
Currently, you need them. You can clear these through NIOS. Once DGCA's proposed reform is approved, Arts and Commerce students will be directly eligible.
Is there an upper age limit for pilot training?
No. DGCA sets no upper limit, but airlines prefer candidates under 32–35 for first officer hiring.
Can I apply for cabin crew right after 12th?
Yes, if you're 18+ and meet height and physical requirements.
I wear glasses — can I still apply?
Yes, for both pilot and cabin crew. Vision must be correctable to 6/6. Severe colour blindness is a disqualification.
Is there an entrance exam for aviation courses?
For AME, yes — the AME CET is a national-level exam. Pilot training and cabin crew courses have institute-level selection processes.
What Should You Do Next?
If you meet the eligibility, here's your step-by-step application guide:
📖 How to Apply for Aviation Courses in India
Still confused about eligibility? Our career counsellors specialise in aviation admissions and can assess your profile, suggest the right course, and help with applications — completely free.
