Choosing the right aviation academy is crucial for achieving your dream of becoming a pilot. As aviation aspirants, you must ensure proper research to identify the best institute for commercial pilot courses after 12th. While the institute’s location, study materials and other facilities are important, there are more critical aspects that can impact your career.
After you have shortlisted a few institutes, ask a few questions to identify the best commercial pilot training institute in India from among the lot. Here are some questions you can possibly ask aviation institutes and find the right one for you.
Questions to Ask Before Ground Training
What Certification Will I Receive Upon Completion of the Course? Why is this important?
There are many civil aviation regulatory bodies across the world, like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Commercial pilot licence training institutes in India provide the DGCA licences as it regulates civil aviation in India. Most aviation training institutes provide DGCA CPL, ATPL and PPL training. You can always ask institutes about the value of these certificates and how they facilitate seamless career advancements in aviation.
Will There be Mock Exams Conducted? Why is this important?
Mock exams play an important role in clearing major theory exams in aviation. A candidate preparing through mock exams is more likely to ace the tests. Mock exams help them get accustomed to the type of questions asked in the actual CPL exams and manage the time given to complete these exams. Some institutions like Wing Path Aviation Academy offer candidates unlimited attempts to clear the mock exams during their ground training for DGCA exams for CPL. Before enrolling, be sure to ask the aviation training academy about their mock exam facilities.
What Modules Will Be Covered? Why is this important?
Before enrolling in an institution, it is wise to understand what exactly you will be learning with your chosen course. Going through the modules line by line will provide insight into the course allowing you to have multiple options to pursue. You will be able to choose and follow a single field of study in the aviation industry and decide if you want to fly an aeroplane or assist as ground staff in the future.
What Would Be The Course Duration? Why is this important?
Top aviation training academies typically complete ground training for CPL, ATPL, or PPL courses within six months and cabin crew training within twelve months. While delays can occur, it's crucial to inquire about the academy's guaranteed completion timeframe, potential delays, and common causes of such delays during your ground training.
Questions to Ask Before Flight Training
How Many Hours of PIC Will I Get?
PIC (Pilot In Command) refers to the individual who has complete control of the aircraft during solo flights. Typically, after 7-15 hours of dual flying with an instructor, you'll start flying solo. However, some academies may log your solo flying hours as dual flying hours, which can significantly affect your training.
Why It Matters
For obtaining the Commercial Pilot License (CPL), you need 100 hours of PIC. If an academy logs only 120-130 hours as solo out of the 180-190 hours you fly, you'll need to fly additional hours to meet the requirements, costing you extra money. Ensure the academy guarantees the minimum hours of PIC logged accurately.
What Aircraft Will I Fly?
Flight training academies offer various aircraft, from single-engine Cessnas to multi-engine planes. The quality and type of aircraft you gain experience on can affect your training and future job prospects.
Why It Matters
Ensure the academy provides the best aircraft for training at a reasonable cost. Be wary of packages that promise multi-engine experience but provide minimal hours on less valuable aircraft. Opt for pay-per-hour flying if necessary to ensure high-quality training.
Can I Quit the Academy Anytime?
Flight training can be transferred between academies. However, some institutions may delay or refuse to transfer your Flight Training Progress Record (FTPR) because they would not want to lose a student. This could cause unnecessary delays.
Why It Matters
Make sure the academy allows for smooth and prompt FTPR transfers. This ensures you can continue your training elsewhere if needed without losing valuable time or money.
Is There a Pay Per Hour Minimum Balance?
Some academies require a minimum balance to continue flying, pausing your training if the balance falls below a certain amount. This practice can trap you into staying with the academy even if you want to be transferred.
Why It Matters
You must be able to use your funds down to the last rupee before refilling. This flexibility prevents financial stress and ensures you’re not stuck with an academy due to monetary constraints.
Are There Any Un-Included Expenses?
Additional expenses like food, accommodation, and travel can add up. Some academies may offer these services but at a low quality.
Why It Matters
Ask about any un-included expenses and visit the premises if possible. Ensure the academy provides quality services to avoid unexpected costs and ensure a comfortable training experience.
What Is the Guaranteed Time-Frame for the Course?
Pilot training is not bound by a strict academic schedule, which means delays can occur. However, long delays can affect your CPL validity and career progression.
Why It Matters
Request a guaranteed time frame for completing the course. This ensures you complete your training within a reasonable period, avoiding unnecessary delays and additional costs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right aviation academy is a critical step in your journey to becoming a pilot. You can avoid common rookie mistakes and ensure a smooth, successful training experience by asking these questions. We hope we have provided you with the answers you need. Good luck with your aviation career!
Wing Path Aviation Academy is a premier training institute for sought-after aviation training programs. We offer pilot ground training courses for DGCA licence, cabin crew training, cargo and ground training and other programs that equip candidates with essential skills to pursue highly rewarding careers in the aviation industry.