How does a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) different from a Private Pilot License (PPL)?

Posted on : 16 January, 2024 7:21 pm

Pilot License

A Pilot License is a certificate that allows someone to fly an airplane. A Private Pilot License (PPL) is for flying airplanes as a hobby or for personal trips. You can’t earn money with a PPL. It’s great for leisure flying, like taking family or friends on short trips. A commercial pilot license (CPL), on the other hand, is for professional pilots. It lets you fly for airlines, charter services, or as a flight instructor. With a CPL, you can get paid to fly, transport passengers, or deliver cargo, making it a career choice for pilots. There are several types of pilot licenses, each with its own privileges and requirements. The main types include:

  1. Student Pilot License (SPL):
    • First step for beginners.
    • Allows flying under an instructor’s supervision.
  2. Private Pilot License (PPL):
    • For personal, non-commercial flying.
    • Can fly solo or carry passengers (not for hire).
  3. Commercial Pilot License (CPL):
    • Professional level.
    • Fly for airlines, charter companies, and for other commercial purposes.
  4. Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL):
    • Highest level of aircraft pilot certification.
    • Command large commercial aircraft.
  5. Instrument Rating (IR):
    • Additional certification.
    • Fly aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).
  6. Multi-Engine Rating (MER):
    • Qualification to fly aircraft with more than one engine.
  7. Certified Flight Instructor (CFI):
    • Teach student pilots.
    • Can provide training for PPL, CPL, and other licenses.
  8. Type Ratings:
    • Specific to a particular aircraft type.
    • Required for piloting large or complex aircraft.

Each type of pilot license serves a different purpose, from the initial learning stages with the SPL to the professional level with the CPL and ATPL, and specialized qualifications like the IR, MER, and Type Ratings. The CFI allows pilots to instruct and pass on their knowledge to new students.

 Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

A CPL, allows the holder to act as the pilot-in-command of an aircraft and be compensated for their services. Commercial pilots can engage in various paid flying activities, such as flying for airlines, charter companies, or as flight instructors.

Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) Course Detail

Eligibility Criteria for CPL

Educational Qualification: The candidate must have completed their 10+2 education or equivalent with Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry as compulsory subjects, and obtained at least 50% aggregate marks.

  • The age limit must be minimum 17 years or above.
  • Students must be medically fit as per the Medical standards of DGCA.

CPL Course syllabus and Duration

In India, the Commercial Pilot License (CPL) course syllabus and duration is governed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which is the regulatory body responsible for aviation in India. The following is a general overview of the CPL course syllabus and duration in India: Ground School: The ground school phase embrace in-depth coverage of aviation theory, including subjects such as air navigation, aviation meteorology, air regulation, aircraft and engines, radio telephony, and human performance and limitations. This involves a minimum of 200 hours of classroom instruction. Flight Training: Flight training in India  involves a minimum of 200 hours of flight time, including specified hours of solo and dual instruction. Training encompasses advanced maneuvers, instrument flying, cross-country navigation, and emergency procedures. Multi Engine Training: Most CPL courses in India include multi-engine rating training, which involves further instruction on multi-engine aircraft. Exams and Checkrides: After completing ground school and flight training, pilots must pass a series of written exams and flight tests to obtain their CPL. Duration: The duration of the cpl course in india varies based on the flight school’s training schedule and the student’s ability to complete required flight and ground training. Typically, the course can be finished in 18 to 24 months on a full-time basis. Part-time courses may take longer to completed.

Cost of Commercial Pilot License Course 

The cost of the CPL course in India is influenced by factors such as the chosen flight school, training aircraft type, and associated expenses. In India, the cost typically ranges from Rs.30 lakhs to Rs. 50 lakhs. Fee is vary college to college. This comprehensive figure covers ground school, flight training, flight instructor fees, aircraft rental and other related costs.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

The PPL serves as an introduction to aviation, designed for individuals pursuing flying as a hobby or personal interest. PPL holders are authorized to fly aircraft for personal use, carrying passengers, but without receiving compensation.

Private Pilot License (PPL) Course Details

Eligibility Criteria for PPL

The applicant must have secured a minimum of 50% in his/ her 10th exam. The minimum age limit for PPL is 17 years, and the maximum age limit is 60 to 65 years. Candidates should be physically fit and meet the medical standards as per DGCA

PPL Course Syllabus and Duration

The Private Pilot License (PPL) course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to operate an aircraft safely and competently. The following is a general overview of the PPL course syllabus, duration, and cost: Ground School: The ground school portion of the PPL course typically covers basic aviation theory, including aerodynamics, aircraft systems, navigation, meteorology, air law, and human factors. This can take anywhere from 40 to 60 hours of classroom instruction.  Flight Training: The flight training module is the heart of the PPL course, involving a minimum of 40 to 50 hours of flight time. This comprehensive training includes both solo and dual instruction, covering basic maneuvers, takeoff and landing techniques, navigation, and emergency procedures. Aspiring pilots Gather valuable experience through a specified number of solo flights and guidance from instructors. Exams and Checkrides: Successful completion of the PPL course requires candidates to undergo a series of written exams and flight tests. These assessments understand theoretical knowledge and practical flying skills. Duration: The duration of the PPL course is depends on factors such as the flight school’s training schedule and the student’s ability to fulfill flight and ground training requirements. Generally, the course can be concluded in 4 to 6 months on a full-time basis, although part-time courses may take longer to complete.

Cost of Private Pilot License Course

The overall cost of the PPL course is subject to several factors, including the country of undertaking, the chosen flight school, and the type of training aircraft. In India, the cost typically vary between Rs. 6 lakhs to Rs. 10 lakhs or more. This inclusive figure covers expenses such as ground school, flight training, flight instructor fees, aircraft rental, and other associated costs.

Career opportunities:

  • PPL: Limited to recreational flying or teaching others to fly.
  • CPL: Opens doors to various career paths, including:
    • Airline pilot
    • Corporate pilot
    • Charter pilot
    • Flight instructor
    • Aerial work like firefighting or surveying

In short, a PPL is for recreational flying, while a CPL is for professional flying.PPL and CPL is a pivotal decision that aligns with individual aim in the aviation landscape. The PPL offers the joy of personal flight and a gateway to diverse aviation activities, while the CPL start individuals into the professional realm of commercial aviation. Whether soaring for personal pleasure or charting a course for a dynamic career, both licenses mark the beginning of extraordinary journeys in the boundless skies.