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Student Pilot License (SPL)
Ground School Subjects in Detail

Overview

The Student Pilot License (SPL) is the first step toward becoming a pilot. Before starting solo flight, students must pass oral/written exams in these core theoretical subjects, assessed by the Chief Flying Instructor (CFI) or DGCA-authorized examiner.

What You’ll Learn in SPL Ground School

Air Regulations (Basics)

Objective:

Understand the basic rules governing civil aviation in India and international skies.

Topics Covered:

  • ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) – role and objectives
  • DGCA – function, authority, and structure
  • Rules of the Air – Right of Way, Visual Flight Rules (VFR), Minimum Safe Altitudes
  • Aerodrome operations – markings, signals, lighting
  • Airspace classification (Class A to G)
  • Licensing rules, privileges & limitations
  • Emergency procedures and signals
  • CARs (Civil Aviation Requirements) relevant to SPL

Meteorology (Basics)

Objective:

Gain foundational knowledge about weather and its impact on flying.

Topics Covered:

  • Atmosphere layers and pressure systems
  • Temperature, humidity, dew point, visibility
  • Wind formation and its effects on aircraft
  • Clouds and precipitation (types, dangers)
  • Fronts and weather systems
  • Thunderstorms and turbulence
  • METAR and TAF basics (reading weather reports)
  • Local weather phenomena affecting flight (e.g., wind shear)

Air Navigation (Basics)

Objective:

Understand how to navigate and position the aircraft using visual references and basic instruments.

Topics Covered:

  • Compass and headings (True North, Magnetic North, Variation)
  • Basic navigation charts and maps
  • Dead Reckoning and Pilotage
  • Latitude and Longitude
  • Time: UTC and local time conversion
  • Use of aeronautical charts
  • Distance, speed, and time calculations
  • Altimeter setting (QNH, QFE concepts)

Aircraft Technical (General)

Objective:

Familiarize with the primary systems, controls, and structure of a light training aircraft.

Topics Covered:

  • Types of aircraft (high-wing, low-wing, tricycle gear, etc.)
  • Aircraft structure and components (fuselage, wings, empennage)
  • Aircraft controls: Ailerons, Rudder, Elevator – primary and secondary controls
  • Basic engine principles (piston engines)
  • Fuel system, lubrication system
  • Flight instruments: Altimeter, ASI (Airspeed Indicator), Compass, etc.
  • Basic aerodynamics – Lift, Drag, Thrust, and Weight
  • Pre-flight checks and aircraft limitations

Radio Telephony (Restricted) – RT(R) (Optional but Encouraged)

Objective:

Understand basic aviation communication procedures between aircraft and Air Traffic Control (ATC).

Topics Covered:

  • Standard phraseology and radio procedures
  • Basic call signs and communication etiquette
  • Understanding of radio equipment in cockpit
  • Emergency communication procedures
  • VHF radio operation and frequencies
  • Standard ATC instructions and pilot responses

Duration

  • Usually 4 to 6 weeks for Ground School classes
  • Followed by internal/external assessment by the CFI

Certification:

  • Internal oral or written exam
  • Pass certificate is used to issue SPL before first solo flight

Note

  • Passing DGCA theory exams is mandatory before flight training completion (especially for CPL/ATPL).
  • DGCA exams are conducted online via Pariksha portal.
  • Validity of a passed theory paper: 5 years

⚠️ RTR(A) is not mandatory at SPL level but getting familiar is a good practice for future CPL/ATPL training.