Can I Become a Pilot at 20?

At 20 years old, considering a career in aviation might seem like a tall order, especially if you are currently undertaking your BCom studies in your final year. However, it is entirely possible to embark on this exciting journey. This article will guide you through the steps and requirements to become a pilot, including educational qualifications, training options, and the fees involved.

Qualification Requirements for the Indian Air Force

To join the Indian Air Force as a pilot, you should first visit the official webpage of the Indian Air Force. The qualifications for flying branch pilots are as follows:

A graduate from a recognized university with 2nd division in science, with subjects including physics and mathematics. Age requirement is generally 18-25 years. Please check the official website for the most current age limits.

Additional Pathways for Graduates

If the flying branch doesn't suit you, you might consider other roles such as adm officers, fighter controllers, ATC controllers, logistics officers, account officers, or engineering graduates. Here are the qualifications for these roles:

Role Qualifications Adm Officer / Fighter Controller / ATC Controller / Logistics Officer / Account Officer Any graduate with at least 60% marks. Engineering Engineering graduate in first division. Meteorological Branch Post-graduate in science with at least 50% marks. Educational Branch Post-graduate in any subject with at least 50% marks.

Training and Exam Fees

If you meet the qualifications, you can proceed to apply. The training process involves a series of exams. These exams, such as the CPL (Commercial Pilot License) and ATPL (Air Transport Pilot License), require a solid foundation in Physics and Mathematics. The exams can be challenging, involving subjects like calculus and Bernoulli's theorem.

In India, the exam fees are generally quite nominal and not expensive. However, if you are planning to train in European or Western countries, the requirements might differ. European and Western training institutions often do not demand strong backgrounds in physics and math, and graduates from any field can join these programs.

Training in a Flight School

Another option is to join a flight school after completing your degree. Many flight schools offer comprehensive training programs that can take between 18 to 24 months, depending on your performance. This training can be beneficial and is also available for those who are not University graduates.

To give you an idea, the commercial pilot training can cost around Rs. 3-5 Lakhs (approximately $4,000 - $6,700) in India. The cost may vary depending on the flight school and trainer. When considering European or Western training, the costs can be higher, ranging from $15,000 - $35,000 (Rs. 10-25 Lakhs). However, the advantage is that you will receive a license that is recognized internationally.

Conclusion

With dedication and hard work, it is definitely possible to become a pilot at 20, even if you are currently in your final year of BCom studies. Whether you pursue training in India, Europe, or another part of the world, the key is to ensure you have a solid educational foundation and the commitment to complete the rigorous training process. Good luck on your journey to becoming a pilot!

Keywords: become a pilot, 20 years old, pilot training