✈️ “How to Become a Commercial Pilot in India: A Complete Guide After 12th”
If you’re dreaming of a career in the skies, becoming a commercial pilot in India is one of the most exciting and rewarding paths you can take. Whether you’re fascinated by aircraft or motivated by the prospect of a high-flying profession, this guide will show you how to become a pilot in India after 12th—step by step.
At the Institute of Aviation & Aviation Safety (IAAS), Mumbai’s first university-affiliated aviation institute, we’re here to help you soar.
🎓 Step 1: Complete Your 12th with the Right Subjects
To pursue a career in aviation, you need to complete your Higher Secondary Education (HSC) or Class 12th with the following mandatory subjects:
Physics
Mathematics
English
Students from a science background are eligible to enroll in professional aviation programs such as the B.Sc. in Aviation offered by IAAS, affiliated with Mumbai University.
✈️ Step 2: Enroll in a B.Sc. Aviation Degree
One of the smartest ways to start your journey is by joining a recognized aviation degree program. IAAS offers a 3-year B.Sc. in Aviation—India’s most structured university-certified aviation program.
Why choose a B.Sc. in Aviation at IAAS?
✅ Affiliated to University of Mumbai
✅ Option for lateral entry in 2nd year for students with an Indian CPL
✅ Strong foundation in aviation theory, air navigation, meteorology, regulations, and flight training
✅ 40+ years of aviation industry experience
✅ Backed by the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP)
🔗 Apply Online for B.Sc. Aviation
📥 Don’t forget to Download the Prospectus before paying your course fees.
🧑⚕️ Step 3: Complete Your Class II Medical Examination
Before you begin flying training, it’s mandatory to pass the Class II DGCA Medical Examination, conducted by DGCA-approved medical examiners. This ensures you meet the health standards required to safely operate an aircraft.
🛬 Step 4: Enroll in Flying School for CPL Training
After or alongside your B.Sc. Aviation, the next step is Commercial Pilot License (CPL) training from a DGCA-approved flying school. You must log a minimum of 200 hours of flying time to be eligible for a CPL.
Many students prefer completing a graduation first to broaden career opportunities and access postgraduate programs later.
💼 Step 5: Apply for Jobs in Airlines
With a valid CPL and a graduation degree, you can apply for positions such as:
First Officer (Co-Pilot) at domestic or international airlines
Flight Instructor
Charter Pilot
Corporate Aviation Pilot
Some of the top recruiters in India include IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, and international carriers.
🔎 FAQs: Pilot Career in India After 12th
Q: Is B.Sc. Aviation mandatory to become a pilot?
No, but it adds academic value and gives you an edge in interviews and further studies.
Q: Can I start flying training before completing graduation?
Yes, you can. But many students choose to pursue both in parallel or opt for B.Sc. Aviation first for a more holistic aviation education.
Q: How many pilots are needed in India?
India is expected to need 30,000+ new pilots by 2040, with over 1,700 aircraft on order.
📌 Final Takeaway
To become a commercial pilot in India after 12th, follow a structured path:
✅ HSC (12th Science) →
✅ Enroll in B.Sc. Aviation at IAAS →
✅ Complete DGCA Class II Medical →
✅ Join Flying School →
✅ Get your CPL →
✅ Launch your career as a pilot
At IAAS, we offer a strong academic foundation, expert faculty, and an institution recognized by the aviation industry for over 25 years.
✈️ The sky isn’t the limit — it’s just the beginning.
👉 Apply Now for B.Sc. Aviation
