Pilot

A Commercial Pilot maneuvers aircraft carrying cargo / passengers or both, unlike an air force pilot who controls and operates fighter aircraft guarding the nation against enemy attack. Pilot controls and operates the flight right from takeoff to landing to take passengers and cargo to destinations across the world. The career of a pilot is full of excitement and challenges and also involves a lot of responsibility. Commercial Pilots are not eligible for Indian Air Force as the selection of Pilots for Indian Air Force is through NDA. The profession of a Commercial Pilot is very lucrative as these pilots are very highly paid. 

A Commercial Pilot inspects equipment and fuel before and after the flight. These professionals operate the aircraft safely and retain a good quality of professionalism at all times. The major role of Commercial Pilots is to fly commercial planes from one destination to another. Also, they supervise aircraft systems and synchronize with on-ground airport authorities for smooth flights. They also study and handle maps, technology and planes. The Commercial Pilots are also responsible for sending and receiving information to the crew flying in an aircraft and staff on the ground. They also need to check weather conditions and flight schedules. The role of a Pilot involves a lot of responsibility as the lives of the passengers and crew members in the aircraft are at risk. So ensuring safe takeoff and secured landing is their responsibility. In case of emergency like poor weather conditions or environmental changes, they need to act swift.

• 10+2 in Science Stream (Preferred)
• Certificate as a Licensed Pilot with a certificate program of 19-24 months (Student Pilot License, Private Pilot License, Commercial Pilot License)
• B.Sc. Aviation for 3 years

Significant Statistics

• Specifications for admission on physical fitness and eyesight vary from college to college
• Mandatory Clearance of class -I medical exam as recommended by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
• Practical Training and completion of flying hours as required for Private Pilot & Commercial Pilot License 
• Minimum 60 hours of flying is mandatory for Private pilot license 
• Minimum 250 hours of flying is mandatory for Commercial pilot license 
• Compulsory Physics and Mathematics subjects in 10 + 2
• Students with non-science background can apply to National Institute of Open School to fulfill the eligibility criteria
   

Pros

• Great travel opportunities
• Lucrative career prospects
• Wider exposure along with opportunity to meet new people and learn about new cultures 

Cons

• Need to stay away from home and family for long durations
• Irregular sleeping and eating pattern
• Safety Issues