How to Get a CPL in India: 5 Proven Steps for 2025

What Are the Requirements to Get a CPL in India?

It’s always good to start the new year on a high note. And what better way to do that than by taking the first step toward your dream career as a pilot?

It’s that time of the year again when you look ahead, plan for the future, and decide to chase your passion for flying. But here’s the truth: becoming a pilot isn’t just about dreaming—it’s about earning the right certification.

A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) doesn’t fall from the sky. You need to work for it, step by step. And in this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get a CPL in India in 2025.

From eligibility requirements to choosing the best flying school and completing your training, this guide will break it all down so you can take off—literally and figuratively.

How to Get a CPL in India: The Requirements For Aspiring Pilots

Before your dream of becoming a commercial pilot in India can take flight, there are a few boxes you need to tick. Meeting these requirements is the first crucial step in how to get a CPL in India and sets the foundation for your journey.

Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a CPL in India. This ensures that candidates possess the maturity and responsibility required for the challenges of professional aviation.

Educational Qualification: To qualify for a CPL, a strong academic background in science is essential:

10+2 with Physics and Mathematics: These subjects are mandatory for understanding the technical and practical aspects of flying.
Alternative Pathways: Didn’t study Physics or Mathematics in school? No problem. You can meet this requirement by completing these subjects through recognized programs like the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).

Medical Fitness: A commercial pilot’s career demands excellent physical and mental health. To qualify:

You must pass a Class 1 Medical Examination conducted by a DGCA-certified doctor.
This test evaluates your vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and overall fitness. Maintaining these standards is a continuous process, as they are critical to retaining your license.

What If You Don’t Meet the Requirements?

If you don’t check all the boxes yet, don’t worry—there are ways to bridge the gaps:

No Physics or Mathematics in 10+2? Enroll in bridge courses or open schooling programs to fulfill this requirement.
Medical Concerns? Consult with a DGCA-approved medical examiner early on to address potential issues and prepare for the formal exam.

Ticking these boxes is the gateway to fulfilling your dream. Once you’ve cleared these requirements, you’re ready to take the next big step: choosing a top-notch flying school to start your CPL journey.

How to Get a CPL in India: Choosing the Best Flying School

Selecting the right flying school is a crucial step in how to get a CPL in India. Your choice will shape your training, prepare you for the DGCA requirements, and set the stage for a successful career in aviation.

Why a DGCA-Approved Flying School Is Essential

To obtain a Commercial Pilot License in India, your training must come from a DGCA-approved school. These schools provide the required structure, flight hours, and certification recognized by the aviation authority, ensuring your qualification meets industry standards.

Top 5 Flying Schools in India for CPL Training

1. Florida Flyers Flight Academy India

Florida Flyers Flight Academy India is a premier choice for aspiring pilots.

The academy stands out for its focus on producing highly skilled pilots through its streamlined training programs. It offers a mix of advanced ground training and hands-on flight experience with modern aircraft and simulators.

The academy is known for its high placement rate, with graduates securing jobs in leading domestic and international airlines. Florida Flyers also provides excellent support for clearing DGCA exams, making it a top contender for CPL training.

2. Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGIA), Chandigarh

Established over a decade ago, IGIA Chandigarh has built a strong reputation for providing world-class aviation training. It boasts a fleet of modern aircraft and experienced instructors who ensure each student receives personalized attention.

The school’s CPL program includes comprehensive ground training and extensive flying hours to prepare students for DGCA requirements. IGIA Chandigarh has a solid track record of placing graduates in reputable airlines and aviation roles.

4. Capt. Gopi Aviation, Bengaluru

Capt. Gopi Aviation is renowned for its hands-on training approach and a curriculum tailored to DGCA requirements. The school emphasizes practical flying experience, allowing students to log extensive flight hours on advanced aircraft.

Capt. Gopi Aviation also provides a strong focus on ground school, ensuring students excel in both written exams and skill tests. With a supportive faculty and a strong alumni network, this academy is a trusted name for CPL training in India.

5. Capt. Sahil Khurana Aviation Academy, Delhi NCR

This academy is a rising star in the aviation training industry, offering modern facilities and a comprehensive CPL program. Students at Capt. Sahil Khurana Aviation Academy benefit from a mix of ground training, simulator sessions, and in-flight training on a variety of aircraft.

The academy is particularly known for its mentorship and career placement assistance, helping graduates secure positions in leading airlines.

How to Choose the Best Flying School

Here’s what you need to consider when choosing a school for how to get a CPL in India:

Reputation: Look into the school’s track record, alumni achievements, and DGCA approval.
Facilities: Ensure the school has well-maintained aircraft, simulators, and experienced instructors.
Cost: Check the overall cost of training, including tuition fees and flying hour charges.
Placement Support: Opt for schools with strong industry connections and proven placement records.

The right flying school is your launchpad to a successful aviation career. Choosing wisely ensures you’re fully equipped to meet the requirements of how to get a CPL in India and start your journey as a professional pilot.

How to Get a CPL in India: Breakdown of the Training Cost

Becoming a commercial pilot is a dream worth chasing, but let’s be honest—it’s not cheap. Understanding the costs involved is crucial when planning your journey. If you’re serious about how to get a CPL in India, here’s a detailed breakdown of the expenses and how you can manage them.

1. Ground Training Fees

Ground training is where it all begins. This phase covers essential subjects like navigation, meteorology, and air regulations—everything you need to clear DGCA exams.

Cost Range: ₹3 lakh to ₹6 lakh.
This fee typically includes classroom sessions, study materials, and mock exams. It’s the backbone of your training and ensures you’re prepared to handle the theoretical aspects of flying.

2. Flying Hours

To get a CPL in India, you’ll need a minimum of 200 flying hours. This is where you take everything you’ve learned in the classroom and put it into practice—solo flights, night flying, cross-country navigation, and more.

Cost Per Hour: ₹7,000 to ₹12,000.
Total Cost: ₹14 lakh to ₹24 lakh.
Flying hours make up the bulk of your CPL costs, but they’re also the most exciting part of your journey, giving you the skills and confidence to soar.

3. Examination and Certification Fees

Earning a CPL involves passing multiple DGCA exams and a final skill test. These costs cover everything from application fees to license issuance.

DGCA Exam Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh.
License Issuance Fee: ₹30,000 to ₹50,000.
These fees are the final steps before you officially receive your CPL, proving you’re ready to fly commercially.

4. Optional Type Rating Costs

While not mandatory for obtaining a CPL, type rating is required to fly specific aircraft like the Boeing 737 or Airbus A320.

Cost Range: ₹10 lakh to ₹25 lakh.
This additional training is often necessary for airline recruitment and can significantly boost your career prospects.

Total Estimated Cost: If you’re wondering how to get a CPL in India, expect to invest between ₹25 lakh and ₹50 lakh. The exact amount depends on your choice of school, aircraft, and whether you pursue type rating immediately.

Tips to Manage CPL Training Costs

Look for Scholarships: Some schools and aviation organizations offer scholarships to aspiring pilots. Programs like the IGRUA Scholarship can cover part of your training costs, so make sure to explore these opportunities.

Consider Education Loans: Many banks offer loans specifically for CPL training with flexible repayment terms. Compare your options and choose one that fits your financial plan.

Budget Wisely: Break down your expenses and save incrementally. Prioritize essential costs like flying hours and exams while planning for extras like type rating.

Research Affordable Schools: Not all DGCA-approved schools charge the same fees. Compare options to find quality training within your budget. In some cases, training abroad might even be more economical while meeting DGCA standards.

Earning a CPL in India is a significant financial commitment, but it’s also an investment in your future. By understanding the costs and planning carefully, you can focus on what matters—achieving your dream of becoming a commercial pilot. When it comes to how to get a CPL in India, preparation isn’t just about flying; it’s about making smart financial choices along the way.

4. How to Get a CPL in India: Ground Training and DGCA Exams

Getting a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) isn’t just about flying; it starts in the classroom. Ground training is where you’ll learn the theoretical knowledge required to become a competent and safe pilot. Clearing the DGCA exams is a mandatory part of how to get a CPL in India, so let’s dive into what you’ll study and how to ace it.

Subjects Covered in Ground Training

Navigation: Learn how to chart a course, calculate fuel requirements, and use aviation maps to ensure a safe and efficient flight. This subject focuses on the techniques and tools pilots use to navigate the skies.

Meteorology: Weather can make or break a flight. This subject teaches you how to interpret weather patterns, analyze forecasts, and prepare for various conditions. Understanding meteorology is essential for making informed decisions during flights.

Air Regulations: Every pilot must adhere to strict rules and procedures. This module covers aviation laws, airspace classifications, and the responsibilities of pilots. It ensures you’re fully aware of the legalities of operating an aircraft.

Aircraft Systems: Gain in-depth knowledge of how an aircraft functions. This subject includes understanding engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, and avionics. Knowing how an aircraft operates prepares you to handle emergencies and ensures safe flights.

Importance of Clearing DGCA Exams

The DGCA exams are non-negotiable. Passing them is a crucial step in how to get a CPL in India, as they certify your understanding of these core subjects. Without clearing these exams, you cannot move on to the flight training phase or earn your CPL.

Each subject has its own exam, and success requires a strong grasp of the material. These exams test both your theoretical knowledge and your ability to apply it in practical scenarios.

Study Tips for DGCA Exams

Create a Study Schedule: Dedicate specific hours each day to studying. Breaking subjects into smaller, manageable chunks helps retain information better.
Use Quality Study Materials: Invest in DGCA-approved textbooks and online resources. Enroll in a reputed ground school that provides access to mock exams and practice tests.
Focus on Problem Areas: Identify subjects or topics you find challenging and spend extra time on them. Don’t hesitate to seek help from instructors or peers.
Practice with Mock Exams: Mock tests simulate the real DGCA exams and help you manage time while assessing your preparedness. Make these a regular part of your study routine.
Stay Consistent: Regular study beats last-minute cramming. Consistency ensures you fully understand the material and reduces exam-day anxiety.

Ground training and DGCA exams are your first big hurdles in how to get a CPL in India, but with the right approach, they’re completely manageable. Master these subjects, and you’ll be well on your way to taking the controls of your future.

5. How to Get a CPL in India: Flying Hours Requirement

Flying hours are the backbone of earning your Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) requires a minimum of 200 flight hours, ensuring you’re well-prepared for professional aviation. This phase of training combines hands-on experience with the skills you’ll need to operate an aircraft safely.

Let’s go into the specifics of flight training in how to get a CPL in India.

Solo Flights

Solo flying is where you truly begin to test your capabilities as a pilot. Operating the aircraft independently, without an instructor by your side, builds confidence and hones your decision-making skills.

For most trainees, solo flights account for 15–20 hours of the total training time. It’s not just about flying—it’s about learning to trust yourself in the cockpit.

Cross-Country Navigation

Cross-country navigation is one of the most exciting parts of flight training. These flights challenge you to plan and execute long-distance routes, often traveling between unfamiliar airports.

This phase sharpens your ability to handle real-world scenarios, from weather changes to airspace regulations. DGCA mandates at least 50 hours of cross-country navigation as part of the 200-hour requirement.

Night Flying

Flying at night presents unique challenges that demand sharp skills and heightened focus. Reduced visibility and reliance on instruments are key aspects of this training.

You’ll complete at least 5 hours of night flying, including solo flights. It’s an invaluable part of preparing for professional scenarios, as many commercial flights operate during late hours.

Instrument Flying

Instrument flying teaches you to navigate and operate the aircraft using only cockpit instruments, without external visual references. This skill is crucial for handling poor weather conditions or flying through clouds. With at least 10 hours of dedicated instrument flying, you’ll develop precision and the ability to maintain control in complex situations.

Logging Accurate Flying Hours

Your logbook is more than just a record—it’s proof of your journey toward becoming a professional pilot.

Every flight, whether solo or with an instructor, must be meticulously logged with details such as duration, type of flight, and verification by your instructor.

Maintaining accurate records is critical in how to get a CPL in India, as incomplete or incorrect entries can delay your license approval.

Flight training is where theory meets practice. Every hour in the cockpit, every solo flight, and every cross-country route adds to your expertise, transforming you into a capable and confident pilot. These 200 hours are more than just a requirement—they’re the foundation of your future in aviation.

6. The CPL Skill Test: Final Step in How to Get a CPL in India

The CPL skill test is the last hurdle on your journey to earning a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). This is where everything you’ve learned—ground training, flying hours, and instrument skills—comes together. Passing this test is a critical milestone in how to get a CPL in India, as it evaluates your readiness to operate as a professional pilot.

What the CPL Skill Test Involves

The skill test is a practical examination conducted by a certified DGCA examiner. It is designed to assess your ability to handle real-world flying scenarios with confidence and precision. During the test, evaluators will closely observe your:

Aircraft Handling: Your ability to control the aircraft smoothly during takeoff, navigation, and landing.
Decision-Making: How well you assess situations and make sound judgments during unexpected events.
Safety Protocols: Adherence to standard operating procedures, ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and the aircraft.
Emergency Handling: Your preparedness to manage engine failures, system malfunctions, or adverse weather conditions.

The CPL skill test is your moment to demonstrate that you’ve mastered the skills required to fly commercially.

Tips for Success in the CPL Skill Test

Practice Makes Perfect: Simulated practice sessions are your best friend. Recreate potential scenarios with your instructor and focus on building confidence in handling diverse situations. Simulators can help you refine your skills in a controlled environment, preparing you for the real test.

Stay Calm and Focused: Nerves can get the better of even the best pilots, but staying composed is key. Take deep breaths, trust your training, and focus on each task. Remember, confidence is as important as technical skill during the evaluation.

Review Emergency Procedures: Ensure you have a solid grasp of emergency protocols. Be ready to demonstrate how to handle situations like engine failures or instrument malfunctions confidently and efficiently.

Know Your Aircraft: Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the aircraft you’ll be flying during the test. From its systems to its limitations, knowing your machine inside-out can make a big difference.

Time Your Movements: Efficiency and timing are critical. Every action, from operating controls to making decisions, should reflect professionalism and precision.

The Significance of the CPL Skill Test in How to Get a CPL in India

Passing the skill test isn’t just about earning your license—it’s about proving to yourself and the aviation world that you’re ready for the skies. It marks the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and training.

This final step in how to get a CPL in India prepares you for a career filled with challenges and rewards. With the right preparation and a calm mindset, you’ll walk away with your CPL in hand, ready to embark on your aviation journey.

How to Get a CPL in India: Career Opportunities After CPL

Completing the journey in how to get a CPL in India is just the beginning of an exciting career in aviation. Your Commercial Pilot License opens the door to diverse and lucrative opportunities, both in India and globally.

Let’s look into the career paths, earning potential, and global prospects for those who have successfully obtained a CPL in India.

1. Airline Pilot

One of the most popular career paths after mastering how to get a CPL in India is becoming an airline pilot. The booming Indian aviation industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet actively hiring skilled pilots.

Starting Salary: ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh per month for domestic routes.
Experienced Captains: Can earn ₹5 lakh or more per month, especially on international routes.
Perks: Free or discounted travel, steady career progression, and exposure to international routes.
For CPL holders, this is often the ultimate career goal, offering prestige and excellent financial rewards.

2. Charter Pilot

After successfully navigating how to get a CPL in India, many pilots opt for charter aviation. Charter pilots fly private jets or corporate planes, catering to VIPs and high-net-worth individuals.

Salary Range: ₹2 lakh to ₹4 lakh per month.
Advantages: Flexible schedules, exclusive destinations, and a high level of responsibility.
Charter aviation offers a unique career path for CPL holders who prefer variety and personalized flying experiences.

3. Flight Instructor

If teaching and mentorship appeal to you, becoming a flight instructor is a rewarding option. After completing how to get a CPL in India, many pilots choose to guide aspiring aviators while gaining additional flight hours.

Salary Range: ₹1 lakh to ₹1.5 lakh per month.
Career Growth: Many flight instructors later transition to airline roles, making this a stepping stone in their aviation journey.
This role allows CPL holders to stay connected with the academic side of aviation and help shape the next generation of pilots.

4. Government and Auxiliary Roles

Mastering how to get a CPL in India also qualifies you for roles in government aviation or auxiliary services. These positions often involve specialized operations such as aerial surveys, disaster relief missions, or defense support.

Perks: Job stability, steady income, and the chance to contribute to critical operations.
Government roles are ideal for CPL holders seeking a meaningful and secure career in aviation.

Global Opportunities for Indian CPL Holders

Once you’ve completed how to get a CPL in India, the possibilities extend far beyond domestic borders. Indian CPL holders are highly sought after by international airlines, especially in regions like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

Requirements: Additional type ratings and certifications may be needed, but the payoff includes higher salaries and enhanced career prospects.
Earnings Abroad: CPL holders working internationally can earn up to ₹10 lakh per month, depending on the airline and aircraft type.
Your training in India can serve as a springboard to global opportunities in commercial and charter aviation.

Return on Investment (ROI)

While understanding how to get a CPL in India involves significant financial investment, the career opportunities make it worth every rupee. Pilots enjoy competitive salaries, travel benefits, and a prestigious lifestyle. With demand for skilled pilots increasing worldwide, CPL holders can expect substantial career growth and long-term financial rewards.

Completing how to get a CPL in India is your gateway to a dynamic and fulfilling career in aviation. From flying commercial airliners to mentoring future pilots, the opportunities are vast and the rewards unmatched. If you’re ready to take the leap, the sky truly is the limit.

Conclusion

Understanding how to get a CPL in India is the first step toward a thrilling and rewarding career in aviation. From meeting the eligibility requirements to choosing the right flying school, completing ground training, and logging 200 flying hours, the process is structured to prepare you for the challenges and responsibilities of being a professional pilot.

Earning a Commercial Pilot License is more than just an achievement—it’s a gateway to exciting opportunities, whether as an airline pilot, a charter pilot, or a flight instructor. The financial investment may be significant, but the long-term rewards—both personal and professional—make it worthwhile.

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying, now is the perfect time to act. With India’s aviation industry booming and global opportunities expanding, obtaining your CPL is a decision that can elevate your future. Take the first step today, and let your journey to the skies begin.

Contact the Florida Flyers Flight Academy India Team today at +91 (0) 1171 816622 to learn more about the Private Pilot Ground School Course.