What is a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)?
A Commercial Pilot Licence is a professional certification that enables a pilot to:
- Fly aircraft commercially
- Transport passengers and cargo
- Work with airlines and aviation companies
- Operate charter and corporate flights
- Build flying experience toward airline captain roles
CPL training develops not only flying ability but also decision-making skills, leadership qualities, situational awareness, and operational responsibility required in real aviation environments.
Eligibility Criteria
To maintain professional aviation standards, candidates must meet DGCA eligibility requirements.
Academic Qualification
- 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics from a recognised board or equivalent qualification
Age Requirement
- Minimum 17 years to begin training
- Minimum 18 years for CPL licence issue
Medical Fitness
- DGCA Class II Medical (initial stage)
- DGCA Class I Medical (mandatory for licence issue)
Language Requirement
- Proficiency in English for aviation communication and Air Traffic Control interaction
These criteria ensure students possess the academic foundation and physical fitness required for professional flying operations.
Course Structure and Training Duration
The CPL program at Sha-Shib Flying Academy integrates theoretical knowledge with extensive flying exposure.
1. Ground School Training
Duration: Approximately 6 Months
Students undergo intensive classroom training covering DGCA subjects such as:
- Air Regulations
- Air Navigation
- Aviation Meteorology
- Technical General
- Aircraft Systems
- Human Performance & Aviation Safety
Ground training builds the technical understanding required before entering flight operations.
2. Flight Training
Duration: 12 to 18 Months
Students complete a minimum of 200 flying hours, as mandated by DGCA.
Flying Hour Requirements Include:
- 100 Hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
- 50 Hours Cross-Country Flying
- 20 Hours Instrument Flying
- 20 Hours Simulator Training
- 5 Hours Night Flying as PIC
- DGCA Skill and Check Flights
Students transition smoothly from simulator learning to real aircraft flying under instructor supervision.
Training Aircraft and Practical Exposure
Sha-Shib Flying Academy provides hands-on flying experience using industry-standard training aircraft such as:
- Cessna 152
- Cessna 172
- Thorp T-211 aircraft
Training on live operational aircraft allows students to develop confidence in:
- Aircraft handling
- Navigation procedures
- Emergency management
- Flight planning
- Real-time aviation decision making
Exposure to DGCA-approved maintenance and operational environments further strengthens technical understanding of aircraft systems.
DGCA Examinations and Licensing
During training, students must successfully complete:
- DGCA Theory Examinations (5 Papers)
- RTR (Radio Telephony Restricted) Licence Examination
- Flying Skill Tests
- Instrument Rating Checks
- Cross-Country Qualification Flights
- Security Clearance Verification
Upon successful completion, candidates are awarded the Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA, Government of India.
Estimated Course Duration and Investment
- Total Course Duration: 18 to 24 Months (Approx.)
- Minimum Flying Requirement: 200 Hours
- Approximate Course Cost: ₹39 Lakhs
Financial assistance opportunities such as SSAT Scholarships are available for eligible students through Sha-Shib Group initiatives.
Career Opportunities After CPL
A Commercial Pilot Licence opens diverse aviation career pathways:
Airline Pilot
Operate domestic and international passenger aircraft.
Charter Pilot
Fly private and business aviation aircraft.
Corporate Pilot
Handle executive and VIP aviation operations.
Flight Instructor
Train future pilots after gaining the required experience.
Cargo and Special Operations Pilot
Perform logistics, aerial survey, and specialised aviation missions.
Growing airline fleets and expanding aviation infrastructure continue to increase global demand for licensed commercial pilots.
