Aviation learning

Taking to the Skies: The Flight Training Phase

Ready to leave the classroom? Discover what it takes to log your 200 hours, understand the transition from Single Engine to Multi-Engine (ME/IR), and learn how to choose the right flight school.

18 August 2026Mayday Minds Editorial

Taking to the Skies: The Flight Training Phase

Logging your 200 hours, mastering multi-engine aircraft, and earning your CPL.

You have cleared your DGCA medicals and are working through your ground exams. Now comes the stage you have been preparing for: flying an actual aircraft.

Flight training is where theory meets real-world execution. This is the phase where you build skill, confidence, and flight experience required to become a professional pilot.

Your choice of training path and discipline during this phase will directly impact your career timeline and overall cost.

Step 01

Choosing the Right Flight School (FTO)

Selecting the right Flight Training Organization (FTO) is one of the most important decisions in your journey.

Fleet vs Student Ratio: More aircraft means less waiting time for flights.
Location and Weather: Favor locations with stable weather for consistent flying.
Maintenance Quality: Well-maintained aircraft ensure safety and reduce delays.

Instead of guessing, explore verified academies through Mayday Minds , where you can compare flight schools based on cost, fleet, and training efficiency.

Step 02

Student Pilot License and First Solo

Your journey begins with a Student Pilot License (SPL). After clearing a basic oral test with your Chief Flight Instructor, you will begin dual flying sessions.

During your initial 15–20 hours, you will learn fundamental skills such as takeoffs, landings, and aircraft control with an instructor onboard.

The first solo flight, where you fly alone for the first time, is one of the most important milestones in a pilot’s career.

Step 03

The 200-Hour CPL Requirement

To earn a Commercial Pilot License in India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) requires a minimum of 200 hours of flight experience.

Single Engine (SE): Around 180+ hours on aircraft such as Cessna 172, covering navigation, night flying, and cross-country routes.
Instrument Rating (IR): Training to fly using cockpit instruments in low visibility conditions.
Multi-Engine Rating (MER): Advanced training on twin-engine aircraft, focusing on complex systems and emergency handling.

Once you complete your required hours and clear final check rides with a DGCA examiner, you will be issued your CPL with Instrument and Multi-Engine ratings.

What’s the Next Step?

With your CPL in hand, you are eligible to work as a commercial pilot. The next phase focuses on becoming airline-ready.

Next on Mayday Minds: Beyond the CPL — airline preparation, psychometric tests, group discussions, and type rating for aircraft like Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.