How to Become an Aviator: A Dream Worth Chasing

There’s something magical about watching an airplane cut through the clouds, soaring high above the world. For many, that sight sparks a dream — a dream of one day becoming an aviator. Not just a pilot, but someone who commands the skies, who feels at home where the birds fly, and who sees the earth from a height most people only dream of. If this dream lives in your heart, then this article is for you.

 

The Spark That Starts It All

Let’s be real — becoming an aviator is not a small dream. It’s bold, it’s exciting, and honestly, it’s a bit intimidating too. You might be thinking, “Where do I even start?” or “Is this path really for someone like me?” And that’s normal. Every aviator, no matter how experienced, once stood where you are — full of questions, hopes, and nerves.

For some, it starts with childhood — playing with toy planes or watching them from the terrace. For others, it comes later — maybe after a vacation flight or seeing a movie like Top Gun or Sully. The point is, once that dream plants itself in your heart, it rarely goes away. And that’s the beginning of your flight.

Who Is an Aviator, Really?

An aviator is more than just a pilot. It’s a mindset. An aviator is someone who respects the sky, understands the responsibility that comes with flying, and feels a deep connection with the machine they’re operating. Whether you’re flying commercial jets, cargo planes, fighter aircraft, or small private planes — being an aviator is about passion, discipline, and endless learning.

Step-by-Step: How to Become an Aviator

Let’s break this dream into clear, achievable steps. Whether you’re in India, the US, or anywhere else, the general roadmap is quite similar.

1. Finish Your Schooling (10+2 with Physics and Math)

To become an aviator, you need to have completed high school (Class 12 or equivalent) with Physics and Math. These subjects help you understand the science behind flight — lift, thrust, drag, aerodynamics, and more.

If you’re still in school and know you want to be a pilot, make sure you choose the science stream. This is non-negotiable for most aviation paths.

2. Get a Medical Fitness Certificate (Class 1 Medical)

This is super important. Flying a plane demands physical and mental fitness. You need to get a Class 1 Medical certificate from a DGCA-authorized medical examiner (in India) or FAA examiner (in the US). Your vision, hearing, heart rate, mental health — everything is evaluated.

Pro tip? Don’t wait till the last moment. Get your medical done early to avoid surprises.

3. Choose Your Flight Training Path

Now comes the exciting part: learning how to fly! You have a few paths depending on your goal and budget:

Option A: Civil Aviation (Commercial Pilot License – CPL)

This is the most common route if you want to become a commercial airline pilot. You’ll join a flying school, complete ground school, pass exams, and log at least 200 flying hours to get your CPL.

In India, some top flying schools are:

  • Indira Gandhi Institute of Aviation Technology (Delhi)

  • Capt. Sahil Khurana Aviation Academy (Patiala)

  • Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (Chandigarh)

In the US, popular ones include:

  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

  • ATP Flight School

  • CAE Aviation Academy

Option B: Indian Air Force (or Military Aviation)

Want to fly fighter jets? Then the IAF is your path. You can join through:

  • NDA (after 12th)

  • AFCAT/CDS (after graduation)

Training here is tough, elite, and free — but also highly competitive. The pride of wearing the uniform and flying a Sukhoi or Tejas? Unmatched.

Option C: Private Pilot License (PPL)

If you just want to fly as a hobby or own a personal plane, a PPL is enough. It requires fewer hours (around 40–60) and is quicker to obtain, though not valid for commercial flying.

Life in a Flying School

Flying school is not just about learning to fly — it’s a lifestyle. You’ll attend ground classes on subjects like:

  • Air Navigation

  • Meteorology

  • Air Regulations

  • Aircraft Technical Knowledge

You’ll also get to do simulator training and real-world flying under an instructor. The first time you take control of the plane? Unforgettable. And your first solo flight? Pure magic. A mix of fear, joy, pride, and adrenaline.

Yes, there will be tough days. Weather delays, failed tests, or moments where you question yourself. But each time you go back into the cockpit, you remember why you started. That’s what keeps aviators going.

Getting Your License

To become a Commercial Pilot, you need to:

  • Log 200 flying hours

  • Clear written DGCA/FAA exams

  • Pass flying skill tests and simulator checks

Once you get your CPL, you are officially a pilot. But wait — you’re not done just yet.

Type Rating and Getting a Job

If you want to fly a specific aircraft like an Airbus A320 or Boeing 737, you need to do a Type Rating — specialized training for that aircraft. This can be expensive (₹20-30 lakhs in India), but it’s often necessary for commercial jobs.

Some airlines hire freshers and offer sponsored type-rating programs (like Indigo Cadet Pilot Program). Others want you to come with a license + rating.

Building your hours, networking, and applying widely is key to getting that first break.

How Much Does It Cost?

Becoming a pilot isn’t cheap, especially in civil aviation. Here’s a rough cost idea (India):

  • CPL (200 hours): ₹35–45 lakhs

  • Type Rating: ₹20–30 lakhs

  • Total: Around ₹50–70 lakhs

In the US or Europe, the cost can be similar or a bit more. But the return on investment — financially and emotionally — is worth it, if you’re passionate.

What Makes a Great Aviator?

It’s not just about flying well. A good aviator is:

  • Calm under pressure: Emergencies will test you.

  • Disciplined: Aviation is strict for a reason. One small error can be deadly.

  • Passionate: You have to love flying. Otherwise, the grind isn’t worth it.

  • Always learning: Technology and rules change. You need to stay sharp.

  • Emotionally balanced: Long hours, time away from family, night shifts — it’s not always glamorous.

Career Options as an Aviator

Once you become an aviator, the sky is literally not the limit. You can:

  • Fly for airlines like Indigo, Vistara, Emirates, or Air India

  • Work as a cargo pilot (e.g., FedEx, DHL)

  • Become a corporate or charter pilot

  • Fly helicopters for rescue or tourism

  • Work as a flight instructor

  • Join firefighting or agricultural aviation

  • Fly for the armed forces or coast guard

Every path is different. What matters is what fits your heart and lifestyle.

Stories from the Sky

Let me share something real. Akash, a boy from a small town in UP, used to ride his cycle 10 km just to sit near the airport fence. Planes fascinated him. Everyone told him to be realistic. He didn’t listen.

He worked part-time, studied hard, and applied for a cadet program. Today, he flies for a major airline and sends his parents photos from every city he lands in. He says, “The first time I held the controls, I cried. It wasn’t just about flying — it was everything I’d fought for.”

There are thousands like him. And you can be next.

Final Thoughts: Fly Because You Want To

If you want an easy job, this isn’t it. If you want a job that pays from Day 1, this isn’t it. But if you want a life that gives you purpose, freedom, and magic — then being an aviator is everything.

Every time you fly, you’re not just moving a machine through air — you’re chasing sunsets, riding clouds, and touching dreams. That’s something not many people can say about their job.

So if the sky calls you, answer it. Prepare, work hard, don’t give up — and one day, you’ll be the one flying above the clouds, watching the sunrise from 30,000 feet, smiling to yourself, and whispering…

“I made it.”