Education Loan for Pilot Training Courses for Indian Students in 2026

Whether the Flying School is located in India or abroad, the costs associated with Pilot Training are often high. So, many Indian students opt for an Education Loan to cover the expenses of a flying school. There are many lenders in India who provide Education Loan for Pilot Training programs for Indian students enrolled in Indian Flying Schools or recognized International Flying Schools abroad. In this article, I will guide you through the associated costs, Education Loan Eligibility, Coverage, and tips to improve your chances of securing an education loan for pilot training.

As per DGCA guidelines, a Pilot License obtained from a recognized Foreign Institute located outside India is equivalent to an Indian License. So, many students opt to complete Pilot Training outside India at lower costs and with easier admission criteria, and later choose a job with an India-based airline.

Cost of Pilot Training Courses in India and Abroad

India: The Cost of the Pilot Training program varies depending on the Flying School, type rating, and Simulation Hours. The typical costs range between ₹30 Lacs to ₹1 Crore.
Abroad: Depending on the Country and Pilot Training School, the typical fee ranges between ₹30 Lacs to ₹2 Crore for Commercial Pilot Training.

Eligibility Criteria of Education Loan for Pilot Training

To apply for the Pilot Training program and be eligible for the Education Loan, you need to be

• Minimum 17 years and Maximum 35 years of age at the time of application.
• Have a good Academic Record in Class 10th, Class 12th, and Bachelor's (if applicable).
• Have secured admission in a DGCA-Approved Flying School in India or an Approved Flying School abroad. If the Flying School is located outside India, it must be approved and recognized by the concerned authorities.
• Have a financially stable Co-Applicant or a tangible Collateral.

What’s Covered in Pilot Training Education Loan

An Education Loan mostly covers 100% of the expected expenses for Pilot Training Courses. However, here is the typical list of expenses covered.

• Tuition Fees and Training Expenses
• License Exam and Certificate Fees
• Study Material, Books, and Uniform Fees
• Accommodation, Visa Fees, and Airfare (if abroad)
• Living Expenses, including Stay, Food, and Commute.

List of Required Documents for Pilot Training Loan

The required documents for the Pilot Training program vary depending on the applicant’s profile, but the most common for the Study Loan are:

• Aadhar Card, PAN Card, and Photograph (Applicant & CoApplicant)
• Academic Records (from Class 10th Onwards)
• Income Proof and Financials (Co-Applicant)
• Admission Letter from Flying School
• Course Structure Fees from Flying School
• Collateral documents (if applying for Secured Loan)

How to Improve Study Loan Approval Chances for Pilot Training

To enhance your Education Loan Application for Pilot Training, you should

• Secure an Admission in a DGCA-recognized Flying School in India or an internationally recognized Training Institute abroad.
• Opt for a Co-Applicant with stable income and strong financials.
• Choose a secured Education Loan and attach a Collateral.

List of DGCA-Approved Flying Schools in India

There are 40 Flying Schools approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India. The Schools are owned and operated by State Governments and Private Organisations.