For anyone dreaming of becoming a commercial pilot, one of the most important requirements is to complete the minimum flying hours for CPL in India. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulates these requirements to ensure that every pilot is well-trained, confident, and capable of handling real-world flying challenges.
In this guide, we will discuss the minimum flying hours required for CPL in India, how many hours pilots usually fly in a month, daily and yearly limits, and why flying hours are so important for a pilot’s career.
Minimum Flying Hours for CPL in India
To obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in India, a student pilot must complete a minimum of 200 flying hours at a DGCA-approved flying school.
Here is the breakdown of these 200 hours:
- 5 Hours of Night Flying – including cross-country and solo flights at night.
100 Hours of Solo Flying – including at least 50 hours of solo cross-country flying. - 20 Hours of Instrument Flying – to learn how to fly using only instruments in poor visibility.
- 15 Hours of Dual Flying – with an instructor for advanced skills and safety training.
Without completing these 200 minimum flying hours, a student cannot apply for a CPL in India.
How Many Hours Do Pilots Fly in a Month?
Once licensed, commercial pilots usually fly 70–90 hours per month in India. This depends on the airline, route, and aircraft type. DGCA ensures that pilots do not exceed safe limits to avoid fatigue.
How Many Hours Do Pilots Fly in a Day?
- On average, pilots may fly 8–10 hours per day, depending on flight schedules.
- According to DGCA regulations, the maximum flying hours pilot can fly is:
- 100 hours in 28 days
- 1,000 hours in a year
These limits are set to ensure passenger safety and maintain pilot health.
The Emirates Plane Flies for 13 Hours – Long Haul Flying
Some international airlines, like Emirates, operate long-haul flights lasting 12–16 hours. For such long journeys, two or more pilots share the cockpit duties. This ensures that no single pilot flies beyond the legal daily flying hours.
Why Flying Hours Are Important in Pilot Training
Flying hours are not just a legal requirement but also the foundation of a pilot’s confidence and skills. Here’s why they matter:
- They build hands-on experience in real conditions.
- Airlines prefer candidates with higher flying hours and simulator training.
- They prepare student pilots for both domestic and international routes.
- Flying hours are essential for CPL eligibility and future career growth.
Top Crew Aviation – Helping Students Complete Flying Hours
If you’re preparing for your Commercial Pilot License in India, choosing the right training school is key. Top Crew Aviation, established in 2008 with headquarters in Jaipur and a branch in New Delhi, is among the best pilot training schools in India.
Here’s why Top Crew Aviation is trusted by aspiring pilots:
- Complete Training Hub – From DGCA ground classes to CPL and RTR prep.
- Global Tie-ups – Partnerships with flying schools in the USA, South Africa, and Europe.
- High Success Rate – Many students clear DGCA exams on their first attempt.
- Affordable Pilot Training Fees – Scholarships up to ₹10 lakhs.
At Top Crew Aviation, students can complete the required 200 flying hours for CPL in India under expert supervision and with global exposure.
Conclusion
The minimum flying hours required for CPL in India is 200 hours, which every aspiring pilot must complete at a DGCA-approved school. Once licensed, pilots usually fly 70–90 hours a month, with DGCA regulations limiting them to 100 hours in 28 days and 1,000 hours in a year.
Flying hours form the backbone of a pilot’s career, shaping their skills and confidence. With the right institute like Top Crew Aviation, you can not only complete your flying hours but also gain the training and guidance needed to succeed in aviation.