Your Journey from Student to Airline Pilot
Wondering what's next after earning your Commercial Pilot License (CPL)?
Earning a CPL (Commercial Pilot License) opens up a wide range of career opportunities in aviation. While most pilots aim for airline jobs, there are several other exciting and well-paying career options available.
At Aero Pilots Academy, we not only train you for your CPL but also guide you towards a successful career in aviation.
What Can You Do After Getting Your CPL?
After obtaining your Commercial Pilot License (CPL), you can choose from multiple career paths based on your skills, experience, and long-term goals. Here are the most popular options:
Airline Pilot (First Officer & Captain) – The Most Desired Career Path
- Average Salary: ₹1.5 lakh – ₹5 lakh per month (in India)
- Key Requirement: Type Rating & Airline Selection Process
A majority of pilots aim to become an airline pilot in domestic or international airlines. You typically start as a First Officer (Co-Pilot) and gradually move up to the Captain's seat with experience.
Steps to Become an Airline Pilot After CPL:
Cargo Pilot – Flying Beyond Passenger Airlines
Cargo pilots fly freight and packages for companies like FedEx, DHL, Blue Dart, and UPS. The demand for cargo pilots is increasing rapidly due to the growth of e-commerce and logistics industries.
Benefits of Becoming a Cargo Pilot:
Flight Instructor – Train the Next Generation of Pilots
- Average Salary: ₹80,000 – ₹2 lakh per month
- Key Requirement: CPL + Assistant Flight Instructor (AFI)
Many CPL holders choose to become Flight Instructors at flying schools in India and abroad. It's a great way to gain flight hours quickly while earning a salary.
Why Become a Flight Instructor?
Charter Pilot – Fly Private Jets & VIP Passengers
- Average Salary: ₹1.5 lakh – ₹2 lakh per month
- Key Requirement: CPL + Experience in Corporate Aviation
Charter pilots operate private jets for business executives, celebrities, and government officials. This career offers high salaries and luxury flying experiences.
Advantages of Becoming a Charter Pilot:
Which Career Path is Right for You?
Your career path after CPL depends on:
- Your Aviation Interests – Airlines, Cargo, Private Jets or Flight Training
- Your Future Goals – Airline Captain, Corporate Pilot, or Aviation Instructor
- Your Budget & Resources – Type Rating, Additional Certifications, etc.
At Aero Pilots Academy, we guide you at every step – from CPL training to choosing the right career based on your strengths.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best career option after CPL?
- How long does it take to get a job after CPL?
- Do I need a Type Rating after CPL?
- Can I work abroad with an Indian CPL?
