Breaking Into Commercial Aviation Without a Traditional CPL Pathway in India

The aviation industry is vast, and there are several exciting ways to break into commercial aviation even without a CPL. These alternative pathways are no less thrilling and rewarding and can lead to fulfilling careers in aviation. This blog will explore alternative routes into commercial aviation, such as becoming an airline dispatcher, air traffic controller, or drone pilot.

An airline dispatcher ensures that flights are safe, efficient, and well-planned. They plan the flight route, assess weather conditions, confirm the aircraft is flight-ready and coordinate with pilots and crew. They also give important information to pilots before and during the flight, such as fuel calculations, flight routes, weather reports, and airport information.

Dispatchers are trained to work in a fast-paced environment, require attention to detail and should understand aviation safety and regulations. This is an excellent alternative career pathway for people who do not want to commit to the lengthy process of obtaining a CPL.

Requirements for Becoming an Airline Dispatcher

• Candidates who want to become an airline dispatcher must be at least 18 and should have passed class12th or equivalent. Some positions need a degree in aviation management, though it’s not always essential.

• In India, to become certified, candidates must complete a DGCA-approved training program. The training covers flight planning, aircraft performance, aviation weather and emergency procedures.

• After completing the training, candidates must pass written and oral exams that test their knowledge of aviation regulations, flight planning, and meteorology. Upon certification, they can work as airline dispatchers.

• While several airline dispatchers start at entry-level, there are prospects for advancement. With experience, dispatchers can take up supervisory roles or go even further.

Benefits of Becoming an Airline Dispatcher

• Steady Employment: Airline dispatchers are critical to airline operations and are always in demand. This offers job stability and a good salary.

• Less Expensive than a CPL: Becoming an airline dispatcher is less expensive than obtaining a CPL, making it a more accessible entry point into the aviation industry.

• Prospects for Growth: With experience, airline dispatchers can even become flight operations managers, opening doors to other thrilling aviation careers.

Air traffic controllers (ATCs) ensure the safe and orderly flow of aircraft in the air and on the ground. They manage the movement of aircraft within controlled airspace, provide directions for takeoff and landing, and handle in-flight traffic to avoid collisions. They coordinate the whole air traffic system, often working in stressful environments to guarantee smooth operations. Becoming an ATC offers an exciting career path. There is no need for a CPL; their work is thrilling and rewarding.

Requirements for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller

• The candidates should have B.SC degree with Mathematics or Physics or Bachelor’s in Engineering with Physics or Mathematics as one of the subjects.

• The candidate shall have proficiency in both spoken and written English and should have studied English in the 10th or 12th standard.

• Aspiring air traffic controllers should pass aptitude tests, medical exams, and background checks. These tests evaluate problem-solving skills, cognitive abilities and the ability to work under pressure.

• ATCs undertake extensive training at an air traffic control facility. This training involves practical experience working with senior controllers. • After training, candidates should pass additional exams and receive certification from DGCA.

The Benefits of a Career as an Air Traffic Controller

• Job Security: The role of ATCs is essential for aviation safety, and there is job security in this field.

• Good Salary: ATCs have good salaries and additional benefits like retirement packages.

• High Impact: ATCs are responsible for passenger safety daily. Knowing that they have a direct role in ensuring air safety can be something to be proud of.

Drones are revolutionizing the aviation industry. The commercial drone market is expanding, and with the increasing requirement for drone services, many prospects exist for people to enter the industry as drone pilots.

Drone pilots operate drones commercially and must be certified by the DGCA in India. While a CPL is not essential to operate drones, drone training and certification are necessary.

• Aspiring drone pilots should become familiar with the working of drones and the regulatory framework governing their use. Various certification programs are there for people to gain the necessary knowledge.

• Commercial drone operators must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, which requires passing a drone pilot exam.

• Upon certification, drone pilots can specialize in industries like real estate photography, infrastructure inspection, agricultural surveying, or search-and-rescue operations. This helps drone pilots build a rep and attract clients.

• Many drone pilots operate as freelancers or entrepreneurs, offering their services in aerial photography and drone-related services. Building a network with professionals and investing in superior equipment can help people establish themselves in the UAV market.

The Benefits of a Drone Piloting Career

• Growing Industry: The drone industry is growing, with applications across several sectors. Drone pilots are in high demand, and this demand will only increase in the future.

• Affordable and Less Time Consuming: Becoming a commercial drone pilot is more affordable and quicker than obtaining a CPL.

• Variety and Flexibility: Drone pilots can work in various fields and industries, which allows them to work in various environments.

Obtaining a CPL is a popular route for entering the aviation industry, but it is not the sole option. Several career paths in aviation don’t need traditional flight training, such as airline dispatcher, air traffic controller, or drone pilot. These can offer competitive salaries, job security and a feeling of making an impact. These roles allow aviation enthusiasts to be part of a dynamic industry and impact it in a big way. If you want to get a commercial pilot license or a drone pilot certification, you can become a part of a reputable flight school like Flapone Aviation. Here, you will get everything necessary to enter the commercial aviation field. So, what are you waiting for? Come on, join us now!