How to Become a Pilot in India 2026: Steps & Fees

If you are eager to learn How to Become A Pilot after the 12th in India 2026-2027, you have landed on the right path.

Becoming a pilot is a dream for many, but it’s not as simple as it sounds. In this article, we will discuss the updated steps that you must take to navigate the modern Indian aviation landscape.

The road is challenging and requires significant investment and talent. To fly in India, you must obtain licenses issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This is mandatory for anyone flying aircraft for commercial purposes.

Highlights! (2026-27 Update)

Below are the key highlights for becoming a pilot after 12th in the current session.

How to Become a Pilot after 12th: Step-by-Step

To become a pilot in 2026, you must follow this structured DGCA-approved roadmap. Skipping steps like medicals can lead to wasted ground school fees.

1. Eligibility & Medicals (The First Hurdle)

• Age: Minimum 17 years to start; 18 for CPL issuance.
• Subjects: Physics & Maths are mandatory. Non-science students can clear these via NIOS.
• Class II Medical: You must clear this first via a DGCA-authorized doctor.
• Class I Medical: Required later for your CPL; much more rigorous.

2. The e-GCA Portal & Computer Number

You cannot sit for exams without a Computer Number. As of 2026, the e-GCA portal has integrated with DigiLocker, meaning your Computer Number is now **auto-generated** for most CBSE students immediately upon application. You will use this portal for:

1. Initial Registration & Computer Number allotment.
2. Booking Class I/II Medical appointments.
3. Applying for DGCA Ground Exam slots.

3. Clear the 6 DGCA Ground Subjects

You must pass written exams in these core areas:

• Air Navigation: Charting routes and flight paths.
• Aviation Meteorology: Understanding weather patterns.
• Air Regulations: Laws governing Indian and International skies.
• Technical General: The science of aircraft systems and engines.
• Technical Specific: Focused on the specific aircraft you are training on (e.g., Cessna 172).
• Radio Telephony (RTR-A): Communication with Air Traffic Control.

Pilot Training & Cadet Programs 2026

For the 2026-27 cycle, you have two main routes:

• The Cadet Program: Offered by IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air. While the fee is higher (₹1 Cr+), you get a **guaranteed job** and the fee often includes Type Rating.
• Conventional Route: You choose your own flying club. It is cheaper (₹55-80L) but does not guarantee employment.

Type Rating: The “Hidden” Step

A common mistake is thinking a CPL makes you job-ready. Airlines require you to be “Typed” for a specific aircraft (Airbus A320 or Boeing 737). This course costs an additional ₹15 Lakhs to ₹25 Lakhs and takes 3-6 months.

Academic Alternatives (B.Tech Aeronautical)

If you want a degree as a backup, top-tier engineering universities in the NIRF 2025 rankings include:

• IIT Madras & Bombay: Top-ranked overall.
• Anna University (NIRF #20): Excellent for Aeronautical studies.
• Amity University Noida (NIRF #37): Popular private choice for aerospace engineering.

Bottom Lines!

Aspiring to be a pilot in 2026 requires a mix of discipline and financial planning. If you have any queries about the e-GCA process or Cadet Program deadlines, comment below! The expert team at www.spinoneducation.com is here to help you fly.

FAQs

What is the starting salary for freshers?

While a Junior First Officer earns ₹1.5L-₹2.5L/mo, fresh CPL holders in trainee or instructor roles may earn ₹50k-₹1L per month initially.

How much does the total training cost?

The total investment (CPL + Ground School + Type Rating) ranges from ₹55 Lakhs to ₹85 Lakhs.

How many years does it take?

It takes 18 to 24 months, depending on weather and DGCA flying slot availability.

References (E-E-A-T):

• Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Official Portal
• Pariksha DGCA: Exam Registration & e-GCA
• NIRF 2025 Engineering Rankings