Distance Learning for Aviation: Is it Possible to Prepare for the DGCA Exams While Working?

The aviation industry in India is experiencing rapid growth in the current scenario. As stated by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the industry will require approximately 20,000 in India in the near future. Similarly, according to various industry reports, India is expected to require approximately 10,900 additional pilots by the end of this decade. In response to this rapidly increasing demand, distance learning is becoming a viable option for individuals seeking to obtain a Commercial Pilot License while working.

The DGCA is responsible for regulating civil aviation in India, issuing flying licenses, and setting safety and training standards. There are quite a few requirements to follow for obtaining a CPL, including a theory exam and theoretical subjects, for example, air navigation, aviation meteorology, air rules, technical subjects and radio telephony.

Flight training requires 200 hours of flight time. Including ground school fees, medical examinations, skill tests, accommodation, and other expenses, the total cost of CPL training in India is about 50 lakh-1 Crore. The CPLs issued by the DGCA have seen an increase recently; in 2023, 1,622 CPLs were issued by the DGCA. Women's participation is also growing, with about 19% of CPL holders in 2023 being women.

Currently, airlines in India are expanding their fleets. For instance, IndiGo and Air India will collectively require around 16,000 pilots over the next decade; IndiGo will need approximately 11,778 pilots, and Air India will need about 4,222 pilots. Likewise, domestic airlines will need more than 7,000 pilots over the next five years, including both co-pilots andcaptains. This validates that prospects for CPL holders are continually expanding.

Time management is a challenge for working professionals, as preparing for CPL theory needs not only knowledge of the subject but also extensive practice and calculations. For example, navigation needs practice in map reading, charts and trigonometry, often necessitating several hours of daily preparation.

Another challenge is achieving the essential flight hours; meeting the 250-hour flight time faces constraints, for example, aircraft availability, weather conditions, and fuel costs.

The third challenge is monetary pressure. The cost of CPL can range from INR 50 lakh to INR 1 Crore, accompanied by repeated testing, equipment and medical expenses. Moreover, DGCA exam topics are updated, requiring consistent practice.

Distance learning is a need for people who work or live abroad. CPL courses, recorded lectures, question banks and mock tests are available on online platforms. These allow candidates to study on weekends or even on vacations.

The fees for the ground school range from INR 1.5 lakh to INR 4 lakh, which can be reduced by using online study materials and virtual classes. If a candidate can study for 10-15 hours per week, take mock tests regularly, and focus on weak areas, their chances of success in the theory exam increase significantly for aspiring commercial pilots.

Indians working abroad are often inquisitive about whether the training they receive will be recognized in India. The DGCA maintains a license conversion process, but it decides only after examining the content quality, the aircraft type, the instructor's certification and flight hours. If the DGCA approves the foreign training organization, some flight hours may be credited towards the conversion. Although candidates lacking a Type Rating, simulator experience and understanding of local regulations may need to further train themselves.

Working professionals should devote at least 2-3 hours daily and more time on weekends. If you can break subjects into smaller, manageable chunks and complete one module each week, it is a very fine method. Taking mock tests is also essential to keep the preparation on track.

Financially, it's important to plan financially for flight training and ground class fees. Many flying schools have training costs ranging from INR 2.5 million to INR 6.5 million. If possible, working professionals can use their vacations to complete flight hours.

The demand for pilots is expected to reach an unparalleled level in the years to come. IndiGo and Air India will need about 16,000 pilots over the next decade. Domestic airlines also require approximately 7,000 pilots over five years. However, competition is not limited to just the CPL; airlines are now requiring Type Rating, aircraft-type experience, simulator training and Crew Resource Management skills. DGCA reports also specify that many new CPL holders need additional training to meet the expectations of the airline.

It's likely to prepare for the DGCA exam and obtain a CPL while working if you follow a solid strategy and discipline. The demand for pilots in India is constantly on the rise, and this trend is expected to continue as the industry undergoes further development.

The complete CPL course in India costs about 1 crore, which creates financial pressure on the candidate; though, scholarships and bank loans can help to ease this burden off the candidate's shoulders. Effectively using holidays, weekends, and online study can help clear the theory portion, while flight training will be largely offline. If you are determined and have good time management skills, then clearing the DGCA exam and getting a CPL is not only possible but also a gateway to opportunities in the aviation industry.

 If you also have a dream of becoming a commercial pilot, then it is essential for you to be on your toes and ready to give whatever it takes. Yes, distance learning is also an option for becoming a pilot, but it is only feasible for the ground course. When on the lookout for the best aviation training institute, look no further than Flapone Aviation. We have some of the best instructors on board, along with the best-in-class infrastructure to make sure that nothing is lacking in terms of training  and facilities for future aviators.