Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
DGCA Ground Classes
Become an Airline Pilot
We offer two carefully designed Commercial Pilot License training programs that simplify the complex journey to becoming a commercial pilot. Whether you are just starting out or advancing toward Flying training, our programs provide clear guidance, structured learning, and hands on experience to help you confidently navigate every step-from ground school to the cockpit.
Commercial Pilot License
Eligibility
Pass in 10+2 with Mathematics and Physics/Equivalent Diploma.
Students who have completed their 10+2 with other subjects shall be considered eligible if they subsequently pass Mathematics and Physics from recognized open schools like National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS)
Age Requirements for Commercial Pilot License
Minimum:
You can start your Pilot training from an age of 17 years.
You can get a CPL issued at the age of 18.
Maximum:
There is no maximum age limit but it is safe to start pilot training till the age of 32 years as airlines generally hire new pilots up to an age of 35 years.
MEDICAL FITNESS FOR PILOT TRAINING
It is absolutely important that you are medically fit to fly before you join a pilot training course.
Your medical fitness is examined by a Class 2 Medical which is an initial medical test conducted by DGCA approved panel of doctors available throughout India.
We assist with your initial Class 2 Medicals - required to start pilot training & subsequently your Class 1 Medicals too.
CLASS 2 MEDICALS
The Class 2 Medical doctor examines you and issues a CA-35 form with the findings of your medical fitness.
These reports are sent to the DGCA which generates your unique File Number and issues a final medical assessment to you.
IGIA will assist you with your Class 2 medical test process.
CLASS 1 MEDICALS
After you are found fit in the Class 2 Medical, you can start your pilot training.
Once you receive your Class 2 assessment from DGCA, you can get a Class 1 Medical test conducted which is available in Delhi, Mumbai,Chennai, Bengaluru and Jorhat.
All these records are kept in your unique File Number held with DGCA.
The mandatory First Step in your Pilot journey. Preparation for DGCA Theory Exams.
Our experienced faculty ensures:
-
Comprehensive classroom sessions
-
Regular revision classes
-
Mock tests for exam readiness
-
Highest possible success rate in first attempt
Join our renowned Ground First DGCA Ground classes to start your journey to flying.
Duration: 5 Months
STEP 1
SUBJECTS FOR FLIGHT TRAINING ABROAD
-
Air Navigation
-
Air Regulations
-
Aviation Meteorology
-
+ RTR (Only for Non-commonwealth Counties like USA, Spain, Greece, Hungary etc.)
STEP 2
COMMERCIAL PILOT LICENSE
FLIGHT TRAINING
Flight training for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is a structured and intensive program designed to transform aspiring aviators into skilled, professional pilots.
It combines theoretical knowledge acquired in Ground classes with practical flying experience.
The time spent at the introductory flight simulator at IGIA also helps you adapt quickly to the flying.
Duration: 8-14 Months
(200 Hours of Flying Training)
TRAIN FOR THE FOUR STRIPES
While the theoretical knowledge allows a pilot to fly safely over the long term, acting as the foundation of competence, the quality of flying training is equally important if not more.
The skills you develop as a pilot depends a lot on the choice of the flight training school. (Known as FTO; a Flight Training Organization)
The complex matrix of Regulatory approvals, reputation, Safety & Maintenance, Fleet size and condition, Instructor quality, Total cost and transparency, Availability of simulators etc. is all simplified for you by IGIA.
TIME TESTED, FLYING TESTED
The pilot training is an expensive endeavor. The cost of flying training in India and abroad is almost similar. When you train abroad you save precious time and are able to hold dual pilot licenses.
IGIA have high quality FTOs based in India as well as abroad. You can click the country links in the next section below to find out more about our world's best Flying training associates.
Or you may proceed to enroll below.
EASA (Europe) is the most reputed and the hardest pilot license. Comes with ATPL and is airline ready.
Canada's tough weather means better pilot skills, Work + PR opportunities and strong training quality makes it famous with Indian students.
World's Best Flying Schools for your Commercial Pilot License Flight Training
Flight Tested. Time Tested. Price Tested.
TALK TO US
Get personalized guidance. We believe in informed choices.
For one-to-one conversation, just enter your phone number and let us explain it all to you.
Conversion of Foreign CPL to Indian DGCA License
STEP 3 - Convert your Foreign CPL License to the Indian DGCA CPL (Only applicable when you have completed your flight training abroad.)
STEP 4
Type Rating
What is Type Rating
A type rating is the training and certification that allows you to fly a specific aircraft type like the Airbus A320 or the Boeing 737 or ATR (usually large jets used by airlines).
So basically:
-
It is a transition training from small aircraft used in your CPL training to the large jet planes used by airlines for commercial flights.
You need to have Type Rating on the specific heavy jet aircraft to fly that particular type of aircraft.
Prerequisite for Type Rating
IGIA has TROs (Type Rating Organizations) Associated in multiple countries for a high-quality Type Rating for Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. You need to have the following to plan your Type Rating:
-
Valid Indian CPL
-
Class 1 Medical
-
Multi-Engine Rating
-
TR/FRTOL
-
Log Book
Duration of Type Rating
Type Rating typically takes 4-6 weeks of full-time training. It is conducted on full flight simulators.
In India, a standard type rating includes:
-
Ground school (aircraft systems, SOPs)
-
Simulator training (30–40 hours full-motion sim)
-
Multi-crew coordination training
-
Final skill test + DGCA endorsement
When should you do Type Rating
This is a decision required to be made very meticulously. Talk to us for details.
Option 1: Do it AFTER getting a job offer (safer)
-
Some airlines may rarely sponsor or partially fund it
-
Lower financial risk
Option 2: Do it BEFORE applying (self-sponsored)
-
Makes your CV stronger
-
But risky if hiring is slow
Option 2 is only recommended with advance information about upcoming openings. In India, many pilots choose self-sponsored type ratings due to competitive hiring.
Airline Preparation
Step 5 of Becoming an Airline Pilot
01
Airline Preparation
Airline Preparation is the final stage of your pilot journey. You will undergo Simulated Tests, Interview Preparation and Study Material for improving your performance in airline selection process.
02
Technical Examination
Tests your knowledge about Aircraft Systems, SOPs and Flying concepts/flight planning and the aviation fundamentals of NAV/MET/REGS.
03
Psychometric & Aptitude Assessment
-
Assessments of Personality, Decision-making, and stress handling
-
Multi-tasking and situational judgement
-
CRM Mindset (Crew Resource Management)
04
Group Activities & Interview
Group activities like GDs are focused on assessing your:
-
Attitude
-
Communication and professionalism
-
Team skill
-
Technical Interview: Focused on your understanding of aircraft systems, SOPs and flying concepts
-
HR Interview: is focused on knowledge + personality fit as desired by an airline
05
Simulator Assessment (if applicable)
In case of Type Rated pilots, airline may require a simulator assessment that may be conducted on fixed-base or full-flight simulator. The sim test evaluates your
-
Aircraft handling
-
SOP adherence
-
Crew coordination.
06
Summary flow for JFO
The whole airline selection process is designed to assess three Core areas:
-
Technical Knowledge
-
Behavior & decision-making (pressure handling ability)
-
Crew coordination and airline fit.
The entire flow is as below:
Application → Tests → Psychometric → Interview → Simulator → Medical → Offer → Training → JFO
Career Outcomes: Your Future in Aviation
The CPL is your foundation for a high-flying professional career. With Indian aviation expanding at record speeds, IGIA graduates are excellently positioned for immediate and long-term success in the cockpit of world-class airlines.
First Job Roles
Start as a Second Officer or Junior First Officer with major airlines (IndiGo, Air India, Spicejet). Other vital entry roles include Charter Pilot, Flight Instructor, or joining Regional Connectivity Schemes (UDAN).
Indicative Salary
Initial salaries in India range from ₹1.5 Lakh to ₹2.5 Lakh per month. Experienced wide-body pilots or those working with international carriers abroad often see earnings exceeding ₹8 Lakh per month as they gain hours.
Career Growth Ladder
Advance from First Officer to Senior First Officer and eventually Captain (4 Stripes). Experienced Captains can progress to Airline Training Captain, TRI/TRE, or take on senior aviation management roles.
CPL (Commercial Pilot License)FAQs
What is the eligibility for CPL in India?
You must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics. If you didn't have these subjects, you can clear them via NIOS. The minimum age to start is 17.
What is the cost of pilot training?
Total costs involve ground school and 200 hours of flying. While significant, we provide transparent fee structures for both Indian and International FTOs.
Flying in India vs abroad: Which is better?
Costs are similar. Abroad often saves time and offers dual licenses (e.g., FAA/EASA/ + DGCA), while India provides direct familiarity with local weather and regulations.
How long does it take to get a CPL?
The timeline typically ranges from 18 to 24 months, including approximately 5 months for DGCA Ground Classes and 8-14 months for flying training.
Is the medical test difficult?
Class 2 Medicals are the first step. They focus on overall fitness, vision, and hearing. IGIA assists you throughout the Class 2 and Class 1 DGCA medical process.
What are the job prospects after CPL?
A CPL allows you to fly for major airlines, charters, or as a flight instructor. Starting salaries for First Officers are highly competitive in India's growing market.
Still have questions? Use the enquiry form above to speak with our experts or click 'Enroll' to start your flying career today.