Types of Pilots: Eligibility, Qualifications, Jobs, Skills, Salary, Scope

Pilots are skilled professionals who fly and navigate aeroplanes, helicopters, and other types of aircraft. The basic duties and responsibilities of a pilot can vary across levels, but some of the common duties include, performing pre and post-flight aircraft inspection, transporting passengers and goods from one location to the other, and controlling the flight. There are various types of Pilots such as Helicopter pilots, Commercial Pilots, Military Pilots, etc, whose qualifications as well as duties vary depending on the aeroplane that they are in charge of flying. 

In order to become a pilot, candidates must complete their class 12 board exams with a mandatory subject combination of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Aspiring candidates can opt for undergraduate or postgraduate Aviation Courses, such as B.Sc Aviation or MBA in Aviation Management from top Aviation Colleges in India or abroad. Candidates can also choose to pursue other additional courses such as Diploma in Aviation Courses for gaining additional skills. However, to be a pilot candidates need to have a Commercial Pilot License approved by DGCA. Admission to these colleges is done on the basis of entrance exams. Also Check: Private Pilot License

The average course fees range between INR 70,000 - 2,50,000. After completion of courses, the candidate can start earning an average salary of INR 11.37 LPA. However, the salary is also dependent on a number of factors such as experience, academics, and skills. The highest salary of a Pilot in India can go up to INR 60 LPA. Check: Salary of a Pilot

Who is a Pilot

Pilots are highly qualified, talented, and licensed professionals who are in charge of flying an airplane or a helicopter. Pilots must complete numerous types of training in order to get their Private Pilot License. Pilots are in charge of flying a variety of aircraft, including passenger, cargo, postal, and other types. They are also responsible for maintaining an aircraft's internal systems and developing a flight plan while taking into account a variety of variables, including aircraft performance, altitude, and weather forecasts.

Qualifications Required to Become a Pilot

In order to become a Pilot, candidates must fulfill certain eligibility criteria as provided below for your reference,

• Candidates should not be less than 17 years when they begin their pilot training
• Candidates must complete class 12th with a minimum aggregate of 50% or equivalent CGPA from a recognized institute.
• They must have Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics in 10+2 as their main subjects.
• For Air force Pilots, the candidate needs to appear in the NDA exam after class 12th or CDS, and AFCAT exams after completing graduation
• In order to be a commercial pilot, the candidate must apply for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
• For becoming a private pilot, the candidate must hold a Private Pilot license (PPL).

Types of Pilots

The table below will discuss the different types of Pilots along with their job profiles and average annual salary for your reference.

Duties of a Pilot

The duties of a pilot are quite extensive. Despite the fact that there are different types of Pilots who are in charge of a list of essential duties, some of the major ones that are commonly practiced by different types of Pilots are mentioned below for your reference,

• Create an aircraft plan taking into consideration altitude, weather, and aircraft performance.
• Check the condition, working and parts of the aircraft to ensure safety.
• Communicate with air traffic control to ensure safe take-off and landing.
• Check the cockpit instruments like altimeters and speed indicators for any malfunctions.
• Coordinate with flight assistants to ensure that all passengers follow the safety rules and remain comfortable.

Skills Required to Become a Pilot

Being a pilot requires the utmost knowledge and skills that make them stand out. Some of the most crucial skills that are required in order to become a Pilot are tabulated below. 

Top Recruiters of Pilots

There are many organizations and airline companies that hire Pilots in the private sector and Governmental sector. The following are the top recruiting companies for Pilots: