The dream of flying high as an airline pilot is more achievable than ever, even for students from commerce and arts backgrounds. With the global aviation industry witnessing a surge in demand for pilots, 2025 presents the perfect opportunity to begin your journey towards a rewarding career in aviation. Whether you are from a science background or not, this guide will provide you with a step-by-step roadmap to becoming a commercial airline pilot.
Can Commerce and Arts Students Become Airline Pilots?
Yes! Contrary to popular belief, students from commerce and arts backgrounds can also pursue a career as an airline pilot. While a 10+2 level education with physics and mathematics is a traditional requirement, commerce and arts students can qualify by taking additional exams or bridge courses in these subjects. Many aviation academies, including Airline Prep School (ALPS), provide guidance on how non-science students can meet the necessary educational criteria.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an Airline Pilot in 2025
Step 1: Fulfill the Educational Requirements
- Science Background: If you have studied physics and mathematics in 10+2, you can directly enroll in a pilot training program.
- Commerce/Arts Background: If you haven’t studied physics and mathematics, you can take open school exams (such as NIOS in India) or bridge courses to meet the eligibility criteria.
Step 2: Obtain a Class 2 Medical Certificate
Before beginning formal pilot training, you must obtain a Class 2 medical certificate from a DGCA-approved doctor. This ensures that you meet the physical and medical requirements to start your aviation journey.
Step 3: Pass the DGCA Exams
To qualify as a commercial airline pilot in India, you must clear DGCA theory exams in:
- Air Navigation
- Air Regulations
- Meteorology
- Technical General & Technical Specific
- RTR (Radio Telephony Restricted License)
Step 4: Get Your Class 1 Medicals & Begin Flight Training (200 Hours)
Once you have passed the DGCA exams, the next step is to obtain a Class 1 medical certificate from a DGCA-approved medical examiner. This is necessary before you can begin your flight training, which requires a minimum of 200 flying hours as per DGCA regulations.
Step 5: Enroll in a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Training Program
After meeting the medical and theoretical requirements, you can enroll in a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) training program. Airline Prep School (ALPS), the first pilot training school in Mumbai, offers a structured CPL training program backed by 9 years of experience. We have successfully trained over 700 pilots who are now flying with leading airlines worldwide.
Our CPL training program includes:
- Ground School: Covers Air Navigation, Air Regulations, Meteorology, Technical General, and Technical Specific.
- Flight Training: Accumulate at least 200 flying hours, including solo and cross-country flights.
ALPS has tie-ups with flight schools in multiple countries, including India, USA, Canada, South Africa, and New Zealand, to help students complete their practical flight training.
Note: ALPS is a ground school that provides comprehensive theoretical training and assists students in securing admission into a flight school for practical training.
Step 6: Submit Documents to DGCA & Obtain License
Once you have completed your flight training, you must submit the required documents to the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation). After verification, your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) will be issued, officially recognizing you as a commercial pilot.
Step 7: Apply for Airline Jobs
With your CPL in hand, you can now apply for jobs with airlines. Many airlines conduct pilot cadet programs, offering structured training and job placements. Airline Prep School (ALPS) provides coaching for various airline cadet selection processes, including:
- Psychometry & COMPASS Tests
- Group Discussions & Interviews
- Simulator Training for Airline Selection Tests
Step 8: Join an Airline and Start Your Career as a Jr First Officer
Once selected by an airline, you will begin as a Jr First Officer (Co-Pilot) and undergo further airline-specific training. Over time, with experience and flight hours, you can progress to Captain. Typically, this takes around 4 to 6 years, depending on the airline and individual performance.
Why Choose Airline Prep School (ALPS)?
At Airline Prep School (ALPS), we provide aspiring pilots with world-class pilot training, experienced instructors, and modern flight simulation technology to prepare them for a successful aviation career.
Why ALPS?
✅ The first pilot training school in Mumbai
✅ A trusted aviation training institute with over 9 years of experience
✅ Over 700+ successful pilot graduates placed in leading airlines
✅ Comprehensive CPL training and airline cadet program preparation
✅ Guidance for commerce and arts students to qualify for aviation training
✅ State-of-the-art flight simulation and interview coaching
✅ DGCA-compliant training programs with structured modules
Join Us for OpenDay 2.0!
To help aspiring pilots understand the journey ahead, Airline Prep School (ALPS) is hosting OpenDay 2.0 – an exclusive event where you can:
✈️ Interact with experienced airline pilots and instructors
✈️ Experience state-of-the-art flight simulators
✈️ Get insights into airline cadet programs and CPL training
✈️ Receive career guidance tailored to your background
📅 Stay tuned for event details and registration information!
Start Your Pilot Journey Today!
If you dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot in 2025, let Airline Prep School (ALPS) guide you through every step of the process. Whether you come from a science, commerce, or arts background, we have tailored aviation programs to help you achieve your flying dreams.
📍 Mumbai: 103, B Wing Rassaz Castle CHS, Malpadongri No. 1, Opp. Gundavali Bus Stop, Near Western Express Highway Metro Station, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400093.
📞 +91 9222111043, +91 9222111042
📧 info@airlineprepschool.com
📍 Pune: Second Floor Unit, Above Ganesh Bhel, Opp. FC College Main Gate, Fergusson College Rd, Pune, Maharashtra 411004.
📞 +91 9461777222
📧 info@airlineprepschool.com
🚀 Apply today and take your first step towards the cockpit! Click here to inquire now