aviation
Commercial Pilot
Fly passengers across the world.
Typical earnings: ₹12–30 LPA as airline First Officer; Captains earn much more
What is this career?
Commercial pilots fly passenger and cargo aircraft for airlines — a high-skill, high-responsibility and high-paying career.
What does this professional do?
Conducts pre-flight checks, flies aircraft, communicates with air traffic control and ensures passenger safety.
Who may enjoy this career?
Students who love physics and machines, stay calm under pressure, meet medical fitness standards, and dream of the cockpit.
What to do after Class 12
Class 12 with PCM, clear Class 2/1 medicals, join a DGCA-approved flying school for CPL (Commercial Pilot Licence).
Course duration
18–24 months of flying training
Approximate fees
₹35,00,000–₹55,00,000 total for CPL training (approx) — verify per school
Further study
Type rating, ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence).
Subjects to consider after Class 10
- Physics & Maths mandatory (can add via NIOS if not taken)
Available courses
- CPL (Commercial Pilot Licence) training
- B.Sc Aviation (optional, alongside)
Entrance examinations
College options
- IGRUA Amethi
- NFTI
- Bombay Flying Club
- DGCA-approved schools (India & abroad)
Career opportunities
- Airlines (IndiGo, Air India etc.)
- Cargo
- Charter & corporate jets
- Flight instructor
Alternative careers
Air Force PilotAeronautical EngineerAir Traffic Controller
Step-by-step roadmap
- 1PCM in Class 12
- 2Class 2 medical test
- 3Flying school admission
- 4Student Pilot Licence
- 5200 hrs flying + DGCA exams
- 6CPL
- 7Type rating
- 8Airline First Officer