Step-by-Step Guide for Aspiring Pilots

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you begin, ensure you meet these essential criteria:

• Minimum age: 16 years
• Passed 12th Standard (10+2) with Physics and Mathematics
• Class 2 Medical Certificate from a DGCA-approved medical examiner (Class 1 required later for CPL)

Step 2: Get Your DGCA Computer Number

You’ll need a DGCA-issued Computer Number to register for pilot examinations. Apply through the DGCA portal by submitting your educational qualifications and identification documents.

Step 3: Complete Ground School Training

Ground School provides the theoretical training necessary for pilots. Courses typically include:

• Aviation Meteorology
• Air Navigation
• Air Regulations
• Technical General (Aircraft & Engines)
• Radio Telephony Restricted (Aeronautical)

At Apano Aviation Institute, we offer comprehensive online ground training that is aligned with DGCA requirements.

Step 4: Select a DGCA-Approved Flying School

Choosing the right flying school is essential. Apano Aviation Institute collaborates with some of India’s leading flying schools, such as:

• Redbird Flight Training, Pune, Maharashtra
• Gujarat Flying School, Baroda, Gujarat
• Asia Pacific Flying Training, Hydrabad, Telangana

Explore more flying schools at our partner institutions page.

Step 5: Accumulate Flying Hours

To qualify for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), you must complete at least 200 flying hours, including solo flights, cross-country navigation, and instrument flying. Typically, this takes about 12-18 months.

Step 6: Pass DGCA Examinations

You must clear the DGCA theoretical exams covering ground school subjects, along with the Radio Telephony Restricted (Aeronautical) exam administered by India's Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing.

Step 7: Apply for Your Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Once you've completed the required flying hours and cleared all exams, you can apply for your CPL through DGCA, officially allowing you to pilot commercial flights.

Step 8: Consider Type Rating (Optional)

A Type Rating is specialised training for specific aircraft types (e.g., Airbus A320, Boeing 737). Although optional immediately after your CPL, it significantly enhances employability with airlines.

Step 9: Begin Your Aviation Career

With your CPL (and Type Rating, if completed), you can apply for pilot positions at airlines. Apano Aviation Institute offers career support, guiding you through job placements and industry connections.
 

Register Now for CPL Training

Additional Resources

• How to Find a Pilot Job: Required Documents & Qualifications
• Top Career Opportunities in Aviation: Pathways & Requirements
• A Pilot's Guide to the Skies