Cadet Pilot Programs in India: Costs, Selection Process & Best Airlines (2025)
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Cadet pilot programs in India are a popular gateway for students to join airlines directly after training. These structured programs are offered in collaboration with top flight schools and guarantee a job interview—or even placement—on successful completion.
What is a Cadet Pilot Program?
A cadet pilot program is a training initiative by an airline in partnership with a flight school to train candidates specifically for its future pilot requirements. Cadets are trained according to the airline's standards, with curriculum and simulator exposure tailored to the specific aircraft types used by the airline.
Top Airlines Offering Cadet Programs (2025)
- IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program – Conducted via CAE, Chimes, Skyborne, and FTA Australia
- Air India Cadet Pilot Program – Recently relaunched in collaboration with multiple partners
- SpiceJet cadet Pilot Program - More affordable options and also offer scholarships for eligible candidates.
Cadet Program Costs in India
Costs for cadet programs can vary significantly:
- IndiGo Cadet Program: ₹1 Cr–1.2 Cr (varies by training partner)
- Air India Cadet Program: ₹1 Cr–1.2 Cr (est. 2025 pricing)
- SpiceJet Cadet Program: ₹80 lakh-1 Cr
Selection Process Overview
- Online Application – Fill out details and upload academic documents
- Aptitude & Psychometric Tests – Cognitive, numerical, memory, and multitasking abilities
- Personal Interview – Assesses motivation, communication skills, and aviation awareness
- Medical Examination – DGCA Class I Medical required
Pros & Cons of Cadet Pilot Programs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Structured path to airline cockpit | Expensive (₹1.0–1.2 Cr) |
| High training quality & simulator hours | Highly competitive selection process |
| Job interview assurance with airline | Bond may restrict airline switch flexibility |
Is a Cadet Program Right for You?
If you have the financial support and wish to follow a streamlined path into a commercial airline, cadet programs are ideal. However, non-cadet modular CPL training also leads to airline jobs and may be more affordable.
Tip: Always verify the DGCA approval status and past student placements before enrolling.
Cadet Pilot Programs in India: Costs, Selection Process & Best Airlines (2025)
Published on:
Cadet pilot programs are an excellent path for students aiming to become airline pilots in India. These programs are backed by airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet and offer a structured pathway from ab-initio training to airline right-seat placement.
Cadet Program Comparison Table
| Airline | Program Name | Estimated Cost | Duration | Training Location | Placement Assurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IndiGo | IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program | ₹1.0–1.2 Cr | 18–24 months | CAE, FTA, L3 (India & abroad) | Conditional on performance |
| Air India | Fly to Future (Air India) | ₹1.0–1.2 Cr | 18–24 months | IGIA Chandigarh + others | Yes (on success) |
| SpiceJet | SpiceJet Cadet Pilot Program | ₹80 Lakhs–1 Cr | 18–24 months | Redbird Aviation + partners | Yes (subject to assessment) |