Best Flying Schools in the World (2025)

Latest update: Epic Flight Academy welcomed over 16 new students in April 2025, expanding its training capacity to meet the growing demand for pilots .

Thinking About Becoming a Pilot? Here’s What You Need to Know

Airlines worldwide are facing a massive pilot shortage, and the demand is only increasing. By 2042, the industry will need around 649,000 new pilots (Boeing Pilot & Technician Outlook 2024). That means now is the best time to start your training.

But all flight schools don’t offer the same opportunities. The best flying schools in the world can give you better training, stronger connections, and faster job placements. A poor choice could leave you struggling with delays, extra costs, or limited job options.

This guide is for aspiring pilots, aviation lovers, and professionals looking for a career shift. 

We’ll cover top flying schools, licensing, costs, eligibility, scholarships, and career prospects—everything you need to start the process.

If flying has always been your dream, let’s find the best flying schools in the world to turn it into a career.

Some of the Best Flying Schools in the World

With DGCA reporting a 20% increase in Indian students going abroad for pilot training due to faster training timelines and better job placements, more students are looking at FAA, EASA, and CASA-certified schools (DGCA, 2024). The USA, Canada, and Europe train the highest number of Indian student pilots, while Asia and the Middle East offer strong airline-backed cadet programs.

Best Flying Schools in the World

Flight School	Country	Accreditation	Airline Partnerships
CAE Oxford Aviation Academy	UK, Spain, Belgium	EASA, UK CAA	British Airways, Ryanair
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University	USA	FAA	Delta, United, American Airlines
Moncton Flight College	Canada	Transport Canada	WestJet, Air Canada
Lufthansa Aviation Training	Germany, Switzerland	EASA	Lufthansa Group
CAE Dubai Aviation Academy	UAE	GCAA, EASA	Emirates, FlyDubai
Massey University School of Aviation	New Zealand	CASA	Air New Zealand
Singapore Flying College	Singapore	CAAS	Singapore Airlines

Why Are Indian Students Going Abroad for Pilot Training?

• In India, CPL training can take 3-4 years, while FAA, EASA, and Transport Canada-approved schools complete training in 12-18 months.
• DGCA requires 200+ flight hours for a CPL, but in the USA and Canada, many students graduate with 250+ hours, making them more competitive for airline jobs.
• IndiGo and Air India prefer candidates with international training and Type Ratings from reputed schools.

Best Flying Schools in the World for Pilot Training: USA

The USA has some of the best flying schools in the world, and attracts thousands of students every year. In 2024, the FAA issued over 65,000 new pilot licenses (FAA, 2024). With FAA-certified flight schools, structured training programs, and direct airline pathways, it remains a top choice for aspiring pilots.

Best Flying Schools in the World: USA

Flight School	Location	Key Programs	Airline Partnerships
ATP Flight School	Multiple Locations	Airline Career Pilot Program	SkyWest, Envoy Air, Republic Airways
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University	Florida & Arizona	Aeronautical Science, Aviation Maintenance	Direct hiring partnerships with major airlines
US Aviation Academy	Texas	Professional Pilot Program	United Aviate, Southwest Destination 225°
Epic Flight Academy	Florida	Airline Pilot Program	SkyWest, Republic Airways, Breeze Airways
Hallmark University	Texas	Professional Pilot Program	FAA-approved, structured training for airline careers

Conversion rates may vary.

Integrated vs. Modular Flight Training

• Integrated Training: A structured, full-time course taking students from zero experience to a commercial pilot license (CPL) in 12-18 months.
• Modular Training: A flexible program where students complete each stage separately, allowing them to train at their own pace.

Which Flight Schools Have Direct Airline Pathways?

Many flight schools in the USA have partnerships with airlines, offering guaranteed interviews, tuition reimbursement, or direct job placements:

• ATP Flight School has a tuition reimbursement program and partnerships with regional airlines like SkyWest and Envoy Air.
• United Aviate Program works with US Aviation Academy, providing a pathway to United Airlines.

Eligibility for Indian Students

• Minimum Age: 17 years for a Private Pilot License (PPL), 18 years for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
• Education: High school (10+2) with Physics and Mathematics is required. If missing these subjects, a bridge course may be needed.
• English Proficiency: Most flight schools require an IELTS (minimum 6.0) or TOEFL (minimum 80 iBT) score.
• Medical Requirements: A Class 1 Medical Certificate from a DGCA-approved doctor for CPL training.

Visa Requirements for Indian Students

• Visa Type: M-1 Visa (for vocational flight training) or F-1 Visa (for degree-linked aviation courses).
• Documents Needed:
  • I-20 form from the flight school
  • SEVIS fee payment proof
  • Financial proof to cover tuition and living expenses
  • Valid passport and visa interview appointment

Pilot Salary in the USA

Position	Annual Salary (USD)	Annual Salary (INR)
First Officer (Regional Airline)	$50,000 - $80,000	₹41 lakh - ₹66 lakh
First Officer (Major Airline)	$80,000 - $150,000	₹66 lakh - ₹1.24 crore
Captain (Major Airline)	$150,000 - $300,000	₹1.24 crore - ₹2.48 crore

Conversion rates may vary.

For a list of pilot training programs in the USA, check upGrad’s course list.

Best Flying Schools in the World for Pilot Training: Canada

Canada is one of the most affordable places for pilot training, with costs 30-40% lower than in the USA and Europe. The country has over 150 approved flight training organizations (Transport Canada, 2024). Flight training in Canada also gives students experience in diverse weather conditions, which is valuable for international airline jobs.

Top Transport Canada-Certified Flight Schools

Flight School	Location	Key Programs	Airline Pathways
Moncton Flight College	New Brunswick	Integrated Commercial Pilot Course (ICPC)	Trained 20,000+ pilots, linked to major airlines
Genesis Flight College	Ontario	Airline Cadet Program	Direct pathway to Flair Airlines
CAE	Multiple Locations	Integrated ATPL Program	Jazz Aviation Pathways Program, First Officer placement

Airline-Sponsored Cadet Programs in Canada

• Jazz Aviation Pathways Program – Offers a direct track to becoming a First Officer at Jazz Aviation.
• Flair Airlines Cadet Program – Provides structured CPL training with a guaranteed airline job.

Eligibility for Indian Students

• Minimum Age: 17 years for PPL, 18 years for CPL.
• Education: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
• English Proficiency: IELTS (6.0 or higher) or TOEFL (minimum 80 iBT) is required for most flight schools.
• Medical Requirements: A Class 1 Medical Certificate issued by Transport Canada for CPL training.

Visa Requirements for Indian Students

• Visa Type: Student Visa (Study Permit).
• Documents Needed:
  • Offer letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
  • Proof of funds (minimum CAD 10,000)
  • Immigration medical exam results
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) and biometrics

Pilot Salary in Canada

Position	Annual Salary (CAD)	Annual Salary (INR)
First Officer (Regional Airline)	CAD 50,000 - 80,000	₹30 lakh - ₹48 lakh
First Officer (Major Airline)	CAD 80,000 - 140,000	₹48 lakh - ₹83 lakh
Captain (Major Airline)	CAD 140,000 - 250,000	₹83 lakh - ₹1.48 crore

Conversion rates may vary.

For more details on aviation programs in Canada, check aviation courses.

Best Flying Schools in the World for Pilot Training: UK & Europe

Europe has some of the most well-established pilot training academies, with many schools certified by EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency). According to EASA, over 15,000 new pilots will be needed in Europe in the next decade (EASA, 2024). Many European flight schools also have direct hiring partnerships with airlines like Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France.

Top EASA-Certified Pilot Academies in Europe

Flight School	Location	Key Programs	Airline Partnerships
Lufthansa Aviation Training	Germany, Switzerland	ATPL Integrated Program	Lufthansa Group Airlines
CAE Oxford Aviation Academy	UK, Spain, Belgium	MPL & ATPL Programs	British Airways, Ryanair
Air France Cadet Pilot Program	France	Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)	Direct pathway to Air France
FTEJerez	Spain	Integrated ATPL, MPL	Aer Lingus, British Airways
Bartolini Air	Poland	ATPL Integrated Program	Wizz Air, Ryanair

Conversion rates may vary.

Which European Countries Have the Best Flying Schools in the World?

• United Kingdom – Home to some of the best aviation schools like CAE Oxford, offering direct airline placements.
• Germany – Lufthansa Aviation Training provides a structured cadet program with guaranteed airline jobs.
• France – The Air France Cadet Program is fully funded and offers a direct hiring route.
• Spain & Poland – Lower training costs and partnerships with major budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air.

Eligibility for Indian Students

• Minimum Age: 17 years for PPL, 18 years for CPL.
• Education: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
• English Proficiency: IELTS (minimum 6.0) or TOEFL (minimum 80 iBT) is required for most flight schools.
• Medical Requirements: A Class 1 Medical Certificate issued by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or EASA for European flight schools.

Visa Requirements for Indian Students

• Visa Type: Student Visa (Tier 4 for the UK) or Schengen National Visa for European flight schools.
• Documents Needed:
  • Offer letter from an EASA or UK CAA-approved flight school
  • Proof of funds (GBP 15,000+ for the UK, varies for Europe)
  • Immigration medical exam results
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) and biometrics

Pilot Salary in the UK & Europe

Position	Annual Salary (GBP/Euro)	Annual Salary (INR)
First Officer (Regional Airline)	£40,000 - £70,000/€45,000 - €80,000	₹42 lakh - ₹74 lakh
First Officer (Major Airline)	£70,000 - £120,000/€80,000 - €140,000	₹74 lakh - ₹1.24 crore
Captain (Major Airline)	£120,000 - £250,000/€140,000 - €300,000	₹1.24 crore - ₹2.65 crore

Conversion rates may vary.

For students considering aviation studies in the UK, check this guide on aviation courses in the UK for details on top programs.

Best Flying Schools in the World for Pilot Training: Australia & New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand are top choices for pilot training, known for large, open airspace, favorable weather, and strong airline connections. CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority) estimates that over 9,000 new pilots will be needed in the region by 2035 (CASA, 2024). Many aviation schools in this region offer fast-track commercial pilot training, which allows students to complete their CPL in 12-14 months.

Top CASA-Approved Aviation Academies in Australia & NZ

Flight School	Location	Key Programs	Airline Pathways
Basair Aviation College	Australia (Sydney, Melbourne)	CPL, ATPL, Flight Instructor Course	Qantas, Virgin Australia
Australian National Airline College (ANAC)	Melbourne, Australia	Diploma of Aviation, ATPL	Pathway to Australian carriers
Massey University School of Aviation	New Zealand	Bachelor of Aviation, ATPL	New Zealand Air Cadet Program
Air New Zealand Academy of Learning	Christchurch, NZ	Integrated ATPL	Direct pathway to Air New Zealand

Eligibility for Indian Students

• Minimum Age: 17 years for PPL, 18 years for CPL.
• Education: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
• English Proficiency: IELTS (minimum 6.0) or TOEFL (minimum 79 iBT) required.
• Medical Requirements: A CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate (Australia) or a CAA Class 1 Medical Certificate (New Zealand).

Visa Requirements for Indian Students

• Visa Type: Student Visa (Subclass 500 for Australia), Fee Paying Student Visa (Subclass 500 for NZ).
• Documents Needed:
  • Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from a flight school
  • Proof of funds (AUD 20,000+ for Australia, NZD 15,000+ for New Zealand)
  • Health insurance and police clearance

Pilot Salary in Australia & New Zealand

Position	Annual Salary (AUD/NZD)	Annual Salary (INR)
First Officer (Regional Airline)	AUD/NZD 60,000 - 90,000	₹33 lakh - ₹50 lakh
First Officer (Major Airline)	AUD/NZD 100,000 - 160,000	₹55 lakh - ₹88 lakh
Captain (Major Airline)	AUD/NZD 160,000 - 300,000	₹88 lakh - ₹1.65 crore

Conversion rates may vary.

Combining Aviation with a Degree

Many universities in Australia and New Zealand offer aviation management degrees alongside pilot training.

• MBA in Aviation Management – A great option for pilots who want leadership roles in airlines.
• Bachelor’s in Aviation Management – Combines flight training with business skills for a well-rounded career.

Best Flying Schools in the World for Pilot Training: Asia & the Middle East

Boeing’s 2024 Pilot Outlook estimates that Asia alone will need over 250,000 new pilots by 2042, the highest demand globally (Boeing, 2024). The Middle East, home to some of the world’s biggest airlines, is also expanding fast, with Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways actively recruiting trained pilots.

Many flight schools in India, UAE, Singapore, and China offer high-quality training, airline-sponsored cadet programs, and direct job pathways to regional and international carriers.

Top-Rated Flight Schools in Asia & the Middle East

Flight School	Location	Key Programs	Airline Pathways
Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics	India	CPL, ATPL	Cadet program partnerships with Indian airlines
CAE Dubai Aviation Academy	UAE	ATPL Integrated, Cadet Pilot Training	Emirates, FlyDubai Cadet Programs
Singapore Flying College	Singapore	ATPL, Multi-Crew Pilot License (MPL)	Direct pathway to Singapore Airlines
Beijing PanAm International Aviation Academy	China	CPL, ATPL	China Southern Airlines Cadet Program
Qatar Aeronautical Academy	Qatar	ATPL, Flight Instructor Training	Qatar Airways Cadet Program

Conversion rates may vary.

Airline Cadet Programs in Asia & the Middle East

Some of the best cadet programs in this region provide a fully sponsored pathway from training to airline employment:

• Emirates Cadet Program – Fully funded training at CAE Dubai Aviation Academy, followed by a guaranteed First Officer job at Emirates.
• Qatar Airways Cadet Program – Covers all training costs at Qatar Aeronautical Academy with job placement at Qatar Airways.
• Singapore Airlines Cadet Pilot Program – Trains pilots at Singapore Flying College, leading to a direct hiring route with Singapore Airlines.
• IndiGo Cadet Pilot Program (India) – A structured self-funded cadet program with placements at IndiGo, India’s largest airline.

Eligibility for Indian Students

• Minimum Age: 17 years for PPL, 18 years for CPL.
• Education: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
• English Proficiency: IELTS (minimum 5.5) or TOEFL (minimum 72 iBT) for some schools.
• Medical Requirements: A Class 1 Medical Certificate from DGCA (India), GCAA (UAE), or the respective country’s aviation authority.

Visa Requirements for Indian Students

• Visa Type: Student Visa or Training Visa (varies by country).
• Documents Needed:
  • Admission letter from a flight school
  • Proof of funds (varies by country)
  • Police clearance and medical check-up

Pilot Salary in Asia & the Middle East

Country	First Officer Salary (USD/INR)	Captain Salary (USD/INR)	Major Airlines Hiring Pilots
UAE	$10,000 - $15,000 (₹8.3 lakh - ₹12.4 lakh) per month	$18,000 - $26,000 (₹14.9 lakh - ₹21.5 lakh) per month	Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai
Qatar	$9,000 - $14,000 (₹7.4 lakh - ₹11.6 lakh) per month	$16,000 - $24,000 (₹13.2 lakh - ₹19.8 lakh) per month	Qatar Airways, Gulf Air
Singapore	$8,000 - $12,000 (₹6.6 lakh - ₹9.9 lakh) per month	$15,000 - $22,000 (₹12.4 lakh - ₹18.2 lakh) per month	Singapore Airlines, Scoot
India	$3,500 - $7,500 (₹2.9 lakh - ₹6.2 lakh) per month	$10,000 - $18,000 (₹8.3 lakh - ₹14.9 lakh) per month	Air India, IndiGo, Vistara
China	$8,000 - $14,000 (₹6.6 lakh - ₹11.6 lakh) per month	$15,000 - $25,000 (₹12.4 lakh - ₹20.7 lakh) per month	China Southern, China Eastern, Air China

Conversion rates may vary.

Types of Pilot Licenses: Which One Do You Need?

A pilot’s license determines what kind of aircraft you can fly and for what purpose. Whether you plan to fly recreationally or pursue a career in commercial aviation, the right license ensures proper training and job eligibility.

Which License is Needed for Airline Jobs?

To fly for an airline, a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is required. To become a captain, pilots need an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), which requires extensive flying experience.

For personal or hobby flying, a Private Pilot License (PPL) is enough.

Pilot License Types & Requirements

License Type	Purpose	Minimum Training Hours	Can You Earn Money?
Student Pilot License (SPL)	First step in pilot training	N/A (Used for basic training)	No
Private Pilot License (PPL)	Recreational flying	40-50 hours	No
Commercial Pilot License (CPL)	Required for airline, charter, and cargo jobs	200-250 hours	Yes
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)	Required to become an airline captain	1,500+ hours	Yes

Additional Ratings for Specialized Flying

• Multi-Engine Rating (MER) – Required for flying aircraft with more than one engine.
• Instrument Rating (IR) – Necessary for flying in low visibility using cockpit instruments.
• Type Rating – Needed for flying specific aircraft like Boeing 737 or Airbus A320.

Many of the best flying schools in the world require IELTS scores for admission. For preparation and test structure, check the IELTS exam guide.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Pilot Training?

Pilot training has clear age, education, and medical requirements. Meeting these ensures smooth admission and licensing.

1. Minimum Age & Education Requirements

• Student Pilot License (SPL) – 16 years old
• Private Pilot License (PPL) – 17 years old
• Commercial Pilot License (CPL) – 18 years old
• Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) – 21 years old

A high school diploma (10+2) with Physics and Mathematics is the standard requirement. Some aviation schools offer bridge courses for students without these subjects.

2. Medical Fitness for Pilots

A medical certificate is mandatory for all pilots.

Medical Class	Required For	Examination Includes
Class 2 Medical	PPL (Private flying)	Vision, hearing, and overall health check
Class 1 Medical	CPL & ATPL (Commercial flying)	Cardiovascular, neurological, and vision tests

A valid Class 1 Medical Certificate is necessary for a commercial pilot career.

3. Required Flight Hours for Different Licenses

License Type	Minimum Flight Hours Required
PPL (Private Pilot License)	40-50 hours
CPL (Commercial Pilot License)	200-250 hours
ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License)	1,500+ hours

4. Do You Need a Degree to Become a Pilot?

A degree is not required for pilot training, but some airlines prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in aviation or aeronautical science. University-based pilot programs often combine flight training with academic coursework.

For students considering pilot training abroad, entrance exams like GRE or TOEFL may be required. Check GRE sections or TOEFL details for more information.

How Much Does Pilot Training Cost?

Pilot training costs vary by country, flight school, and training model. The total cost at the best flying schools in the world includes tuition, aircraft rental, simulator training, licensing fees, medical exams, and living expenses.

On average, commercial pilot training costs between $40,000 and $150,000 (₹33 lakh - ₹1.24 crore) depending on location and training duration (FAA, 2024). Countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia have structured training programs, while some European and Asian countries offer more affordable modular courses.

Average Cost of Pilot Training by Country

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA, 2024) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO, 2024), the estimated cost of pilot training worldwide is:

Country	Average Cost (USD) (INR)	License Type
United States	$70,000 - $150,000 (₹58 lakh - ₹1.24 crore)	CPL + ATPL
Canada	$60,000 - $100,000 (₹49 lakh - ₹83 lakh)	CPL + ATPL
United Kingdom	$80,000 - $140,000 (₹66 lakh - ₹1.15 crore)	CPL + ATPL
Australia	$55,000 - $120,000 (₹45 lakh - ₹99 lakh)	CPL + ATPL
India	$40,000 - $70,000 (₹33 lakh - ₹58 lakh)	CPL
Philippines	$35,000 - $60,000 (₹29 lakh - ₹49 lakh)	CPL

Conversion rates may vary.

Breakdown of Pilot Training Costs

Cost Component	Estimated Cost (USD) (INR)
Tuition Fees	$25,000 - $80,000 (₹20 lakh - ₹66 lakh)
Aircraft Rental	$15,000 - $40,000 (₹12 lakh - ₹33 lakh)
Simulator Training	$5,000 - $20,000 (₹4 lakh - ₹16 lakh)
Examination & Licensing Fees	$2,000 - $5,000 (₹1.6 lakh - ₹4 lakh)
Medical & Insurance Fees	$500 - $2,000 (₹41,000 - ₹1.6 lakh)

Conversion rates may vary.

Many international students consider studying abroad for aviation training due to better infrastructure and job opportunities. To understand how studying abroad affects expenses, check this study abroad cost guide.

Note: Several aviation organizations, airlines, and government programs offer funding for pilot training.

For more planning options, check this study abroad step-by-step guide.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Pilot?

Pilot training duration depends on the type of license, training model, and whether the program is full-time or modular. A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) typically takes 12-18 months, while an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) requires 3-5 years due to the experience needed.

Training Duration for PPL, CPL, and ATPL

License Type	Duration	Training Model
Private Pilot License (PPL)	3-6 months	Part-time or full-time
Commercial Pilot License (CPL)	12-18 months	Integrated full-time
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)	3-5 years (includes CPL)	Modular or cadet programs

Full-Time vs Part-Time Training

• Full-Time Integrated Training – Covers PPL, CPL, and ATPL in 12-24 months through an intensive structured program.
• Part-Time Modular Training – Allows students to train in phases, completing flying hours over 3-5 years.

Fast-Track Programs vs Modular Training

Fast-track programs, like airline-sponsored cadet programs, complete CPL + ATPL within 18-24 months. Modular training takes longer but offers flexibility.

Students interested in combining aviation with a degree can check bachelor’s programs in aviation or explore master’s programs in aviation management for career advancement.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Flight Training

Pilot training is a big financial commitment, and for many students in India, the cost is a major hurdle. The average cost of becoming a commercial pilot abroad can exceed ₹1 crore (DGCA, 2024). Due to high costs, many students either take large loans or give up on their pilot dreams altogether (Propelld, 2024).

Since loans come with high-interest rates and long repayment periods, scholarships and airline cadet programs are the best ways to reduce financial stress. These programs cover part or full training costs and often come with job guarantees.

Top Aviation Scholarships and Cadet Programs

Scholarship Name	Offered By	Coverage	Eligibility
CAE Women in Flight Scholarship	CAE Aviation Academy	Full funding for CPL training	Female pilots globally
Qatar Airways Cadet Program	Qatar Airways	Fully sponsored CPL and ATPL	Ages 18-26, strong academic background
Emirates Flight Training Academy	Emirates Airlines	Full training sponsorship with job guarantee	High school graduates with strong academics
Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics Scholarship	IGIA (India)	Partial funding for CPL	Indian students with strong academic records
Air League Flying Scholarship	Air League UK	£3,000 (₹3.1 lakh) towards flight training	UK residents aged 18-35
EAA Flight Training Scholarships	Experimental Aircraft Association	Up to $10,000 (₹8.2 lakh)	U.S.-based aviation students

Conversion rates may vary.

For more details on fully funded international scholarships, check this guide on fully-funded scholarships for Indian students and this list of other study abroad scholarships.

Career Opportunities After Pilot Training

Once training is complete, pilots can work in commercial airlines, cargo operations, charter flying, corporate aviation, and military aviation.

Where Are Pilots in Highest Demand?

The global demand for pilots is growing rapidly, with the highest demand in:

• Asia-Pacific – 250,000 pilots needed due to airline expansion.
• North America – 130,000 pilots required as senior pilots retire.
• Europe – 100,000 pilots needed for commercial and cargo airlines.

The U.S. aviation industry is projected to add over 18,000 new pilot jobs annually until 2032 (FAA, 2024).

European airlines are hiring over 5,000 pilots yearly, with Germany, France, and the UK leading the demand (EASA, 2024).

India’s aviation sector is growing at a rate of 9.5% annually (IATA, 2024).

Pilot Salaries in Top Countries with Leading Aviation Schools

Salaries vary by country, experience level, and type of operation. Below is a comparison of average annual pilot salaries in countries with well-established aviation training institutions.

Country	Average Annual Salary (USD)	Notable Aviation Schools
Switzerland	$172,610 (₹1.43 crore)	Swiss AviationTraining, Horizon Swiss Flight Academy
Luxembourg	$146,809 (₹1.22 crore)	Luxembourg Flight Training Academy
United States	$132,569 (₹1.10 crore)	Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, FlightSafety Academy
United Kingdom	$121,028 (₹1.00 crore)	Oxford Aviation Academy, CAE Oxford Aviation Academy
Canada	$112,169 (₹93.2 lakh)	University of Waterloo Aviation, Seneca College School of Aviation
Germany	$111,419 (₹92.6 lakh)	Lufthansa Aviation Training, European Flight Academy
Australia	$110,314 (₹91.7 lakh)	Basair Aviation College, Australian National Airline College
Norway	$109,352 (₹90.9 lakh)	Pilot Flight Academy, Norwegian Aviation College

Conversion rates may vary.

Career Paths and Salaries

Pilots can take up different roles based on their experience and certifications.

Job Role	Description	Average Salary (INR per year)
Airline Pilot	Operates commercial passenger flights	₹58 lakh - ₹2 crore
Cargo Pilot	Transports goods for logistics companies	₹49 lakh - ₹1.6 crore
Charter Pilot	Flies private or business jets	₹41 lakh - ₹1.24 crore
Flight Instructor	Trains new pilots at aviation schools	₹33 lakh - ₹66 lakh
Military Pilot	Flies for the air force or government	₹41 lakh - ₹99 lakh

Conversion rates may vary.

If you’re exploring a career as a pilot after high school, check this guide on pilot careers after 12th to learn about training programs and job opportunities.

upGrad Abroad – Helping You Start Your Pilot Training Journey

Dreaming of becoming a pilot but not sure where to start? upGrad Abroad helps you find the best aviation schools worldwide.

Worried about the cost? We guide you through scholarships and cadet programs so you don’t have to rely on heavy loans. Need help with visa applications or licensing exams? Our experts help with the details so you can focus on your career.

You don’t have to figure it out alone. Get expert advice, find the right school, and start your pilot journey with confidence. Let’s make it happen!