How to Get a PPL (Private Pilot License) in India

Last Updated on August 6, 2023 by Vishnu Nambiar

PPL stands for Private Pilot License. It is a license that authorizes a person to fly aircraft non-commercially. This means that pilots possessing PPL may fly aircraft, but not get remunerated for flying and carrying people from one place to another! PPL license can be used to fly for fun or pursue flying as a hobby. PPL qualified pilots may even fly aircraft at night, if they possess night and instrument ratings! This article covers all the important details, A-Z, that you need to know about obtaining Private Pilot License in India.

Flying aspirants and enthusiasts have many doubts regarding PPL and the process of obtaining it. Some of the popular queries are- ‘How to get PPL in India?’, ‘How much flying hours (flying training) is required to become eligible to apply for PPL?’, ‘How much money one has to spend in order to get PPL?’. This article will answer all those questions.

The process is simple- one must have a minimum of 40 flying hours under one’s belt and pass the examinations conducted by the DGCA in ground subjects. Flying training can be obtained from a reputed and recognized flying school. At start, you will have to acquire a SPL (Student Pilot License). After that, you may start flying training and meet the requirements of PPL!

Let us take a closer look at the process and requirements (eligibility criteria).

 

Eligibility Criteria

Age: Candidate must not be less than 17 years of age, when applying for the license.

 

Minimum educational qualification: Candidate should have completed 10th board exam (or equivalent) from a recognized board.

 

Medical certificate: Candidate must have Class 2 Medical certificate. Should be medically fit as per the DGCA guidelines.

 

Flying experience: Candidate should have at least 40 hours of flying time (as pilot) under his/her belt. Flying training can be obtained from a reputed and recognized flying school.

 

Candidate should have completed the flying training in accordance with the syllabus prescribed by the DGCA. The candidate must demonstrate his/her flying skills (as pilot or as co-pilot) by satisfactorily performing procedures and maneuvers (prescribed in the syllabus) in front of an examiner. Such skills must be demonstrated on the type of aircraft to which the application for the license relates.

 

The flying training must cover prescribed amounts of solo flying time and cross country flight. The particulars regarding flying training has been provided below –

 

flying training requirements
Source- DGCA website

 

Examination: After applying for PPL, candidates must clear written examination that covers subjects like air regulations, air navigation, aviation meteorology and aircraft & engines. The written exam is conducted by the DGCA.

 

Also read:

Become a Commercial Pilot after 12th

Best flying schools in India

Aviation courses in India

CPL training program

 

The process

In simple terms, you may approach the DGCA and apply for PPL, if you satisfy the age limit, educational requirements, provide class 2 medical certificate and possess adequate flying experience. After applying, you will have to appear for the written examination conducted by the DGCA. Successful candidates will be given the PPL by DGCA!

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