If you’ve always wondered how to become a pilot, this blog is for you. Perhaps you’ve thought about this as a hobby, but becoming a commercial pilot is actually a great career choice.
There are typically two routes into an aviation career as an airline pilot. The most preferred being the conventional pathway and the other one is Airline Cadet Pilot Training pathway. Aspiring Pilots often find it difficult to decide upon the pathway, as most of them are not fully aware of the pros and cons of these two pathways.
This article helps you understand various features of these pathways and gives you a clear comparison so that you can opt for most convenient pathway based on your personal preferences.
Conventional Training Program
A conventional Pilot Training Program involves pursuing flight training independently outside of a specific airline program. Key features include modular training, flexibility in training locations and instructors, and exposure to a variety of aircraft types.
This pathway typically requires self-funding for flight training and may take several years to complete, depending on individual circumstances and the availability of flight training opportunities.
Features:
- Flight training conducted at flight schools or aviation academies.
- More flexibility in selecting training locations and instructors.
- Training on a variety of aircraft types based on the training school’s fleet.
Cost:
- Costs can vary significantly depending on the country, training location, and flight school.
- Generally, the cost includes flight hours, ground training, study materials, exams, and additional fees. Living expenses additional.
- Average cost of entire program can vary between 40 – 50 Lakhs. Might be little more expensive if done abroad.
DGCA Exams:
To become a commercial pilot through the conventional pathway, one must successfully pass six essential exams. The six exams are as follows:
- Aviation Meteorology
- Air Navigation
- Air Regulations
- Aircraft Technical Knowledge (General)
- Aircraft Technical Knowledge (Specific)
- Radio Telephonic
Structure:
To become a commercial pilot through the conventional pathway, one must undergo a structured training process that includes:
- Ground Classes: Ground classes provide the foundational knowledge required for aviation.
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Training: After completing ground classes, the next step is CPL training. This phase involves practical flight training under the supervision of certified instructors.
- Type Rating: The final phase of the training process is obtaining a type rating. A type rating is a certification that qualifies a pilot to operate a specific type of aircraft.
By following this structured pathway, aspiring pilots can achieve the necessary qualifications and experience to embark on a successful career in commercial aviation.
Airline Cadet Pilot Training Program
An Airline Cadet Pilot Training Program is offered by specific airlines to groom and train pilots for their own operations. The program is tailored to meet the airline’s requirements and standards.
The Cadet Pilot Training Program gives you a clear pathway into an airline career and training as per airline procedures and protocols. The timeline for an airline cadet program is typically fixed, ranging from 24 – 30 months. Successful completion often leads to employment with the same airline.
Features:
- Training programs specifically designed by airlines to meet their specific requirements and standards.
- Training typically includes flight instruction, simulator training, and theoretical courses.
- Emphasis on airline procedures, protocols, and safety standards.
- Training is conducted with a clear career path leading to potential employment with the sponsoring airline.
Cost:
- The cost structure of airline cadet programs can vary significantly.
- Rarely, airlines may partially sponsor the training, requiring the cadets to sign a bond or service agreement.
- But mostly, cadets need to self-fund all of the training expenses.
Structure:
The Airline Cadet Pilot Training Program is a meticulously structured pathway designed to guide aspiring pilots from initial selection to becoming fully qualified airline pilots.
- Selection Process: The selection process is the first step in the cadet pilot training program, aimed at identifying candidates with the aptitude and potential to become successful pilots.
- Signing a Bond or Agreement: Upon successful selection, candidates are required to sign a bond or agreement with the airline. This agreement typically outlines the terms and conditions of the training program.
- Training: The training phase is the core of the cadet pilot program, encompassing both theoretical and practical instruction to develop the skills required for commercial aviation. This phase includes:
- Ground Class
- CPL Training
- License Conversion (if required)
- Type rating
Upon completing the type rating, cadets are ready to join the airline as pilots. This final phase of the Airline Cadet Pilot Training Program marks the transition from trainee to professional aviator.
Conclusion
The choice depends on individual preferences, financial resources, career aspirations, and the specific offerings of flight schools and airlines. Both the conventional Pilot Training Program and Airline Cadet Pilot Training Program have their advantages and considerations.
Conventional pilot training programs provide greater flexibility and the opportunity to gain diverse flight experience. They can be suitable for individuals seeking more control over their training, want to explore different aircraft types, or have budget constraints.
On the other hand, airline cadet programs offer a streamlined pathway into an airline career, potentially increasing the chances of employment with the sponsoring airline. They are suitable for individuals who are committed to pursuing a career with a specific airline and are willing to undergo a competitive selection process.