Air India Cadet Pilot Program
Minimum Requirements
Nationality
Applicants must be Indian citizens or hold Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI).
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have completed 10+2 with a minimum of 60% marks overall and individually in English, Physics, and Mathematics. Certificates from the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) are also accepted.
Health Requirements
Candidates should be in sound physical and mental health, capable of handling the demands of flight training.
Language Proficiency
A strong command over both spoken and written English is essential.
Age Criteria
Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years of age at the time of applying.
Medical Fitness
Before commencing flight training, candidates must successfully pass the DGCA Class 1 Medical Examination as per aviation standards.
Air India Cadet Pilot Program Selection Process
The selection spreads over 4 phases as listed below
Application & Initial Screening
- Fulfill the basic eligibility criteria
- Submit your application through the online portal
- Academic record verification and confirmation of minimum required scores
Pilot Aptitude Assessment
- Focus and concentration
- Numerical reasoning and calculations
- Spatial awareness
- Memory recall
- Hand-eye coordination
- Logical decision-making
Group Discussion Round
- Team interaction skills
- Logical and analytical reasoning
- Ability to work in collaboration
- Confidence and communication that sets you apart
Personal Interview
- General understanding of aviation
- Basic aerodynamics and flight principles
- Awareness of recent developments in the aviation sector
- Passion and motivation for flying as a profession
Application & Eligibility Screening
The process starts with applicants confirming that they fulfill the basic eligibility standards including age, education, and subject-specific performance. Once eligible, candidates complete the online application by submitting detailed academic records and any relevant professional history. Submitted documents, especially mark sheets, are carefully reviewed to ensure that minimum qualification percentages are met.
Pilot Aptitude Assessment
In the second stage, candidates undergo a comprehensive Pilot Aptitude Assessment designed to evaluate the core mental and cognitive abilities necessary for becoming a pilot. This assessment includes various modules that test a candidate’s concentration, numerical reasoning, spatial awareness, memory retention, dexterity, and logical thinking. Each element of the test simulates the kinds of decision-making and multitasking scenarios a pilot may encounter in real flight conditions. The aim is to measure how efficiently and accurately a candidate processes information and responds under time constraints, the qualities that are essential for flight safety and cockpit management.
Group Discussion
The third stage involves a Group Discussion session, where candidates are assessed on their interpersonal, communication, and leadership abilities within a team environment. This stage focuses on evaluating how individuals interact in group dynamics, particularly how they express ideas, collaborate with others, and offer logical solutions during structured discussions. Participants are expected to demonstrate critical thinking, active listening, and the confidence to stand out positively in a group setting. These traits reflect real-world cockpit situations where teamwork, clarity, and calm decision-making are key.
Personal Interview
The final stage of the selection process is the Personal Interview, which offers a one-on-one evaluation of the candidate’s overall readiness for a career in aviation. Interviewers will assess the candidate’s foundational knowledge of aviation, for example, basic flight principles, terminology, and aircraft systems as well as awareness of current industry trends and developments. The panel will also look for personal qualities like enthusiasm for flying, commitment to professional growth, and an attitude of responsibility. A strong performance in this round shows not only technical aptitude but also a genuine passion for aviation and a mindset suited to the challenges of the aviation industry.
Your Path to become a Pilot starts with Air India Cadet Pilot Program
Orientation & Onboarding
The journey begins with a structured onboarding process designed to familiarize cadets with all aspects of their upcoming training. During this phase, cadets are introduced to the program’s curriculum, timelines, and expectations. They receive important documentation such as training agreements, code of conduct policies, and essential guidelines to ensure discipline, safety, and accountability throughout the course. This orientation helps cadets feel fully prepared and aligned as they step into their aviation career path.
DGCA Ground School & Examinations
Over a period of 4 months, cadets undergo intensive Ground Classes led by our expert trainers at PilotsPathway. The focus is on building a strong foundation in theoretical aviation subjects, including Air Navigation, Air Regulations, and Meteorology, the three core subjects required for DGCA licensing. Additionally, cadets must also clear the RTR (Radio Telephony Restricted) exam conducted by WPC, India. Once all written and oral exams are successfully passed, cadets are approved to move forward to the practical flight training phase.
Flight Training Phase
In this crucial stage, cadets head to partnered flight schools where they begin hands-on flight training. This includes accumulating the required flying hours through practical lessons, simulator sessions, oral briefings, and skill-based evaluations. During this time, cadets learn various in-air procedures, flight techniques, and emergency handling. All these are aimed at preparing them to qualify for their Commercial Pilot License (CPL). This stage shapes their skills, discipline, and decision-making as future pilots.
License Conversion in India
After successfully completing their flight training abroad, cadets return to India to complete the license conversion process. At approved Indian flight training facilities, cadets fulfill the specific DGCA requirements for converting their foreign license into an Indian CPL. This includes additional flying hours, checks, and assessments to ensure they meet all regulatory standards under Indian aviation laws. This step validates their readiness to fly commercially within Indian airspace.
Type Rating Training
Next, cadets progress to the Type Rating stage, where they receive aircraft-specific training particularly on the Airbus A320. This training includes detailed classroom instruction, high-fidelity simulator sessions, and system-based learning to develop the skills needed to operate this aircraft model. Upon successful completion, cadets are certified to fly the A320 in commercial operations. This is a key requirement before joining the airline’s active flight roster.
Final Induction into Air India
Congratulations! After completing all phases of the program, cadets go through final evaluation interviews with the Air India selection panel. Once cleared, they are officially inducted into the airline and begin their professional journey as First Officers. This marks the beginning of a rewarding and dynamic career in commercial aviation with India’s national carrier.
Disclaimer
The information above is based on current knowledge and is for general reference only. Air India reserves the right to modify the selection procedure or course structure at its discretion. Please check Air India's official career page for the most recent updates.