Have you ever wanted to become a pilot, but thought it wasn’t possible because you didn’t study Physics or Mathematics in school? If that’s the case, there’s some good news for you. As reported by Lokmat News Network, The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is considering a major change that could allow students from Arts and Commerce backgrounds to pursue a career as commercial pilots, without the need for these subjects at the 12th grade level.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
For years, only students who had studied Science were eligible for Commercial Pilot License (CPL) training. But this new proposal could soon open up this career path to many more students who’ve dreamed of flying but felt restricted by the current rules.
Since the mid-1990s, the rule has prevented students from Arts and Commerce streams from considering a career in aviation, despite the increasing demand for pilots in India. But that could change soon. The DGCA is reviewing the current eligibility requirements and may remove the need for Physics and Mathematics in Class 12 as a mandatory qualification to pursue CPL training.
According to reports, this change could open up new opportunities for students from all educational streams to take part in the growing aviation sector, provided they meet other essential criteria, such as medical fitness.
The Need for Change
Veteran pilots, including Captain Shakti Lumba, a former Vice President of Flight Operations at IndiGo, spoke with Times of India saying, ‘This is an archaic requirement and needs to go. The physics and maths taught in 12th is not needed by pilots. They already have the required understanding of these subjects from whatever they have studied in junior classes.’
In fact, this policy has been criticised by flying school operators as well, who argue that limiting the eligibility to just Science students restricts the pool of potential talent. The aviation industry in India is rapidly expanding, and there’s an increasing demand for pilots. Therefore, opening up CPL training to all students—regardless of their academic stream—seems like a step in the right direction.
Why This Change Matters?
This change is not just about removing an old rule; it’s part of a broader effort to meet the growing demand for pilots in India’s booming airline industry. Currently, many students travel abroad to complete their CPL due to concerns about the quality of training, safety, and the time it takes to finish the course in India. The DGCA is also working on ranking flying schools based on important factors like safety standards and the time required to complete training, so students can make better, more informed choices when selecting a flying school.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re an Arts or Commerce student who has always dreamed of flying planes but thought you couldn't because you didn’t study the ‘right’ subjects, this could be your chance!
With this potential policy change, commercial pilot training could soon be available to anyone who has passed Std 12th , as long as they meet the medical fitness requirements.
Final Thoughts
This move isn’t just about changing eligibility—it’s about breaking barriers and redefining who gets to become a pilot. It’s about making this exciting career path accessible to more students, regardless of their academic background.
So, if you’ve been eyeing a career in aviation, don’t give up on your dream just because you didn’t choose Science in school. The world—and the sky—could soon be your playground.
Good luck, and remember, the sky’s the limit!
Lokmat News Network, Apr 19, 2025: Now Arts, Commerce Students Can Also Become Pilots
The Times of India, Apr 18, 2025: DCGA may allow arts, commerce, 12th pass students to turn pilots
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