“The physics and math’s taught in 12th is not needed by pilots” says captain Shakti Lumba

It was in the mid 90’s the law came to pass that made 12th physics and math’s the minimum requirement for candidates to acquire the CPL license. Now, in the light of recent events the DGCA is now considering to change these for good. This will potentially allow students from arts and commerce background to pursue a career in aviation.

"Once finalized, this recommendation will be sent to the Union aviation ministry. When they approve it, CPL training will be open for eligible students (those found medically fit) across streams," said people in the know.

Veteran pilot Captain Shakti Lumba, who retired as IndiGo VP flight operations and had before that headed Alliance Air, says no country other than India has the requirement of physics and math’s at Class 12 level as eligibility criteria for CPL training. "This is an archaic requirement and needs to go. The physics and math’s taught in 12th is not needed by pilots. They already have the required understanding of these subjects from whatever they have studied in junior classes," he said. If anything, this rule has been an impediment for arts and commerce students who want to become a commercial pilot.” Such students have to give class 12 exam for math’s and physics from open school to become eligible to enrolling for the course. Many have done so,” Captain Lumba who flew as a pilot for 31 years, says.

Several flying school operators also questioned the current rule "which makes no sense and should go." "If you are a rich person and want to fly your own plane, having physics and math’s in class 12 is not a prerequisite for getting a personal pilot license (PPL) in India. But for CPL, that is needed. This simply doesn't make sense," said an owner of a flying school. While these recommendations are not approved yet, chances of these getting approved are imminent. Approval of this recommendation will pave way for more aspirants to pursue a career in aviation. As the airline industry is booming, so is the need for new pilots. Presently as these requirements exist candidates go abroad to acquire their license. DGCA is also actively trying to rank various flight schools in India, this will help students to take an informed decision before joining their flight school. "A lot of things are in the works and the changes will show very soon,” said officials.

About Writer

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Mr. Sanjeet Dube

15 years of experience as Cabin Crew with over 10,000 flying hours. Associated with Jet Airways, Mr. Dube has flown on various aircraft, including Airbus, Boeing, and ATR.