Introduction
The aviation sector in India is booming, and with airlines like IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, and Vistara expanding their fleets, the demand for skilled commercial pilots is higher than ever before. Thousands of students aspire to become commercial pilots, but the biggest question on their mind is: “What are the commercial pilot course fees in India?”
The truth is, becoming a pilot is a significant investment. On average, the commercial pilot course fees in India range from ₹35 lakhs to ₹55 lakhs, depending on the flying school, location, aircraft type, and duration of training. But this cost is not just about flying hours—it also includes DGCA exams, ground classes, medical tests, licensing, and miscellaneous expenses.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about pilot training costs in India, including a step-by-step process to become a pilot, DGCA exam details, medical requirements, top flying schools, and alternatives like the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program. Along the way, we’ll also discuss how choosing the right ground school, like Top Crew Aviation (TCA), can help you save both time and money by preparing you to clear DGCA exams on your first attempt.
What is a Commercial Pilot Course in India?
A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is a professional qualification that allows you to fly commercial aircraft and earn a salary as a pilot. In India, the CPL training process is regulated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
There are two main stages in pilot training:
– Private Pilot License (PPL): For personal flying, not for earning money.
– Commercial Pilot License (CPL): Required for professional airline jobs.
A commercial pilot course in India typically includes:
1. DGCA Ground Classes – Covering subjects like Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations, and Aircraft Technical General.
2. DGCA Exams – Written exams conducted by DGCA that must be cleared.
3. Flight Training – At least 200 flying hours at a DGCA-approved flying school.
4. Medical Tests – DGCA Class 2 and Class 1 medical certifications.
Commercial Pilot Course Fees in India
The pilot course fees in India vary depending on the school and the path you choose, but here’s a realistic cost breakdown:
- Flying Training Fees
– Students must complete 200 flying hours.
– Average cost per hour: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000.
– Aircraft types include Cessna 152, Cessna 172, DA-42, etc.
👉 Estimated Cost: ₹25 – ₹35 lakhs - DGCA Ground Classes Fees
– Before flight training, students must prepare for DGCA exams. Many aspirants join ground schools for this purpose.
👉 Estimated Cost: ₹1.5 – ₹3 lakhs
Note: Choosing the right ground school can make a huge difference. For example, Top Crew Aviation (TCA) is highly trusted by students because of its experienced faculty, updated DGCA exam preparation material, and high first-time pass rate. Many pilots highlight that enrolling in TCA saves both money and time by avoiding repeated exam attempts. - DGCA Exam Fees
– DGCA Exam Fee per subject: ₹2,500 – ₹3,000
– RTR (Radio Telephony) exam: ₹5,000
👉 Estimated Cost: ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 - Medical Tests Fees
– DGCA Class 2 Medical: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000
– DGCA Class 1 Medical: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000
👉 Estimated Cost: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 - Licensing & Miscellaneous Fees
– Uniform, books, headset, charts, logbook, and license issuance.
👉 Estimated Cost: ₹1 – ₹2 lakhs
👉 Total Estimated Commercial Pilot Course Fees in India (2025): ₹35 – ₹55 lakhs
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Pilot in India
- Complete 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics
– Students from other streams can appear through NIOS.
– After completing 10th grade, you can prepare for DGCA exams, but CPL requires 12th grade with PCM. - Apply for DGCA Computer Number
– Unique ID for all pilot aspirants. - Clear DGCA Class 2 & Class 1 Medical Tests
– Mandatory before flying. - Clear DGCA Exams
– Subjects: Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations, Aircraft Technical General, RTR.
– This is where ground schools like Top Crew Aviation play a crucial role in exam success. - Enroll in a DGCA-approved flying School
– Complete 200 hours of flying. - Pass CPL Skill Test
– Conducted by DGCA examiners. - Get Your Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
– Once DGCA issues your license, you are eligible to apply for airline jobs.
Factors Affecting Pilot Training Cost in India
- Type of Flying School: Private schools charge more than government ones.
- Location: Delhi, Mumbai. Schools are more expensive than in smaller cities.
- Aircraft Type: Training on modern aircraft costs more.
- Flying Hours: Extra hours increase costs.
- Exam Attempts: Repeated DGCA exam attempts add to fees—this is why quality ground schools like TCA help reduce expenses.
DGCA Exams for CPL – Complete Guide
- Eligibility: 10+2 with PCM, Class 1 medical, DGCA Computer Number.
- Subjects: Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations, Technical General, RTR.
- Fees: ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 per subject.
- Preparation: Best done through DGCA ground classes in Delhi, with Top Crew Aviation (TCA) being a preferred choice due to its exam-focused coaching and doubt-solving approach.
Tip: Clearing DGCA exams on the first attempt saves lakhs of rupees by avoiding training delays.
Medical Requirements and Fees
- Class 2 Medical: Initial health check (~₹3,000 – ₹5,000).
- Class 1 Medical: Advanced test before flight training (~₹5,000 – ₹8,000).
Without these clearances, you cannot proceed to training.
Top DGCA-Approved Flying Schools in India (2025)
Here are some well-known DGCA-approved flying schools:
- Rajiv Gandhi Aviation Academy, Hyderabad
👉 Typical CPL training cost: ₹35 – ₹45 lakhs
👉 “To know more about the best academies, read our detailed guide on the Top 10 Pilot Training Institutes in India with Fees.”
Note: While flying schools train you in practical flying, most students choose Top Crew Aviation (TCA) for their DGCA ground classes before joining a flying school. This ensures they are well-prepared for exams and training.
IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program (Alternative Path)
For students who want a guaranteed airline pathway, IndiGo offers a Cadet Pilot Program.
- Fees: ₹80 lakhs – ₹1.2 crore (higher than regular CPL).
- Advantage: Direct placement with IndiGo after completion.
- Disadvantage: More costly than the standard CPL route.
Tips to Reduce Pilot Training Costs
- Clear DGCA exams in the first attempt – Save time & money. (TCA is highly recommended here.)
- Choose cost-effective flying schools – Smaller cities often have lower fees.
- Avoid wasting hours – Complete training efficiently.
- Look for scholarships & cadet programs – Airlines occasionally sponsor cadet pilots.
Conclusion
Becoming a commercial pilot in India is a dream worth chasing, but it requires a serious financial commitment of ₹35–55 lakhs. The fees include flying hours, DGCA exams, ground classes, medical tests, and licensing charges.
While flying schools handle the practical side of training, the real challenge lies in clearing DGCA exams efficiently. That’s why many students choose Top Crew Aviation (TCA) for their ground training and DGCA preparation. With experienced faculty, high success rates, and exam-oriented teaching, TCA has become a trusted name for aspiring pilots in India.
If your dream is to become a pilot, plan your budget carefully, clear your DGCA exams on time, and choose the proper guidance. With dedication and the right support, your journey from the classroom to the cockpit is achievable.
👉 If you want expert guidance and structured training, explore Top Crew Aviation (TCA) for the best commercial pilot training pathway.
FAQs
Q1: What are the average commercial pilot course fees in India?
A: ₹35 lakhs – ₹55 lakhs.
Q2: Can I become a pilot after 12th?
A: Yes, with Physics & Mathematics in 10+2.
Q3: Which is the best flying school in India?
A: Schools like IGIA, Chimes, and CAE Oxford are reputed, but for DGCA exam preparation, Top Crew Aviation is considered superior.
Q4: How much does the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program cost?
A: Around ₹80 lakhs – ₹1.2 crore.
Q5: What is the duration of CPL training in India?
A: Usually 18–24 months.
