Difference Between ATPL, CPL and PPL in India
Oct 28, 2025 · Docpilot team
🛫 Understanding Pilot Licenses in India — PPL, CPL & ATPL
Every aspiring pilot in India begins their journey by choosing the right license. The three main pilot licenses issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are PPL, CPL, and ATPL. Each represents a different stage of flying experience, training level, and career opportunity.
Let’s understand how they differ and which one suits your aviation goals.
✈️ What is PPL (Private Pilot License)?
A Private Pilot License (PPL) allows you to fly an aircraft for personal or recreational purposes but not for hire or commercial operations. It’s ideal for aviation enthusiasts or hobby flyers who want to enjoy flying privately.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Minimum age: 17 years
- Educational qualification: 10th standard
- Minimum flying hours: 40 hours (DGCA minimum requirement)
- Medical: Class 2 Medical Certificate
- Examination: DGCA theoretical papers and flight test
Privileges
- You can act as Pilot-in-Command of a private aircraft.
- You cannot be paid for flying.
🎓 At Doc.Pilot10 Aviation Academy, we guide students from the basics of aerodynamics to real flight experience, helping them achieve their first milestone as certified private pilots.
🧭 What is CPL (Commercial Pilot License)?
A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is the most sought-after license for those who want to become professional pilots. It allows you to fly aircraft and get paid for it — whether in airlines, charter companies, or flight instruction.
Eligibility and Requirements
Privileges
- You can work as a paid pilot in commercial operations.
- You can apply for airline pilot training programs after gaining experience.
Doc.Pilot10 Aviation Academy provides CPL training under structured programs that prepare students not only for DGCA exams but also for airline assessments and simulator checks.
👨✈️ What is ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License)?
The Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) is the highest level of pilot certification. It’s mandatory for those who wish to become a Captain in an airline. This license demonstrates the highest level of aeronautical knowledge, flight experience, and decision-making ability.
Eligibility and Requirements
Privileges
- You can command multi-crew aircraft as a Captain.
- You can fly for scheduled airlines and other high-level operations.
At Doc.Pilot10 Aviation Academy, our advanced training programs and exam preparation support help commercial pilots transition smoothly to ATPL-level knowledge and skill.
Which License Should You Choose?
- If you want to fly for fun or personal satisfaction, choose PPL.
- If you aim to make flying your career, start with CPL.
- Once you gain experience and flight hours, move toward ATPL to become an airline Captain.
Every professional pilot begins somewhere, and with the right training, you can move from PPL → CPL → ATPL in a structured path.
At Doc.Pilot10 Aviation Academy, we provide complete guidance, DGCA exam preparation, and step-by-step support to help you achieve your pilot goals — from your first solo flight to your airline career.