The DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) Air Pilot Exam is a crucial step for aspiring pilots in India. It is required to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). The exam is conducted by the DGCA to test the theoretical knowledge of pilot candidates.
DGCA Pilot Exam Overview
1. Types of Licenses & Eligibility
- Student Pilot License (SPL) – Entry-level, no DGCA exam required.
- Private Pilot License (PPL) – Basic flying skills, DGCA theory exams required.
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL) – For professional pilots, DGCA theory exams mandatory.
- Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) – For captains in airlines, DGCA ATPL exams required.
2. Subjects & Exam Structure
The CPL and ATPL written exams include multiple subjects:
CPL (Commercial Pilot License) Exams
- Air Navigation – Covers aerodynamics, navigation charts, instruments, GPS, etc.
- Air Regulations – Indian and international aviation laws and rules.
- Meteorology – Weather patterns, cloud formations, aviation weather reports.
- Technical General – Aircraft systems, engines, performance, limitations.
- Technical Specific – Specific to the aircraft type used in training.
- RTR (Aero) – Radio Telephony – Required separately for communication licensing.
ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) Exams
- Air Navigation (Advanced)
- Air Regulations
- Meteorology (Advanced)
- Radio Aids & Instruments – Covers advanced navigation and avionics systems.
3. Exam Pattern
- Conducted by : DGCA, through an online system.
- Format : Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- Duration : 2-3 hours per subject.
- Passing Marks : 70% (varies per subject).
- Frequency : Conducted four times a year.
- Mode : Online (through designated DGCA exam centers).
4. Preparation & Study Material
- DGCA-approved study guides (Jeppesen, Oxford Aviation, etc.).
- DGCA Question Banks & Previous Year Papers.
- Flying Schools & Ground Schools offer dedicated coaching.
- Online Resources & Apps for practice.
5. Registration & Fees
- Apply via: DGCA’s Pariksha portal (https://pariksha.dgca.gov.in).
- Fees: Varies per subject, generally ₹2500-₹5000 per exam.
- Documents Required: 10+2 (Physics & Math), medical certificate, ID proof.
6. After Clearing DGCA Exams
- CPL: Requires 200 flight hours + DGCA exam clearance.
- ATPL: Requires 1500+ flight hours + DGCA exam clearance.
Key Tips for Success
✔ Study DGCA syllabus thoroughly.
✔ Practice mock tests & previous question papers.
✔ Understand navigation charts & meteorological concepts.
✔ Enroll in a reputed flying school or ground training.
✔ Keep updated with DGCA notifications & syllabus changes.