Commerci Pilot License (CPL) - Exam Format
The CPL theory exam includes a greater range of subjects compared to the PPL exam. It covers the following subjects:
| Subjects | Number of Questions | Duration | Passing Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Air Regulations |
30 |
1 hour |
70% |
|
Air Navigation |
40 |
2 hours |
70% |
|
Meteorology |
30 |
1 hour 30 mins |
70% |
|
Aircraft General Knowledge |
40 |
2 hours |
70% |
|
Flight Performance & Planning |
40 |
2 hours |
70% |
|
Human Performance & Limitations |
30 |
1 hour 30 mins |
70% |
|
Radio Telephony |
20 |
1 hour |
70% |
|
Technical General (Aircraft) |
30 |
1 hour 30 mins |
70% |
|
Technical Specific (Aircraft Model) |
40 |
2 hours |
70% |
- Total Duration : Approx. 12 hours for all subjects.
- Mode of Exam : Multiple-choice questions (MCQs), theoretical answers, and some application-based questions.
- Passing Marks : A minimum of 70% in each subject is required to pass the written exam.
- Reattempt : If the candidate does not clear any subject, they must reattempt the respective paper..
- Total Duration : Approx. 12 hours for all subjects.
- Mode of Exam : Multiple-choice questions (MCQs), theoretical answers and some application based questions.
- Passing Marks : A minimum of 70% in each subject is required to pass the written exam.
- Reattempt : If the candidate does not clear any subject, they must reappear for the respective paper.
After successfully passing the written exams, candidates will proceed to the practical flight test for their CPL. The practical test is more detailed and includes:
- Pre-flight briefing The candidate provides a flight plan, details on navigation, emergency procedures, and aircraft performance.
- Fllight Operations The candidate demonstrates skills such as navigation, communication, emergency procedures, and overall aircraft handling.
- ATC Communications The candidate must display proficiency in radio communication, particularly in busy airspace.
- Post-flight debriefing : An analysis of the flight performance and a discussion on any areas for improvement.
CPL Exam Regulations:
- Exam Centers: CPL exams are conducted at DGCA-approved centers (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai).
- Mode of Conduct: Most exams are conducted in written format followed by a practical flight test.
- Medical Requirement: A Class 1 medical certificate is required for CPL.
- Language Proficiency: The exam is conducted in English, and candidates must be proficient in both speaking and understanding English, especially for the Radio Telephony exam.
General Tips for PPL Exams:
Thorough Preparation:
A strong focus on air regulations, navigation, meteorology, and aircraft systems is crucial for CPL exams.
Simulators and Mock Tests:
Practice on flight simulators and participate in mock tests to get familiar with the practical aspects of the exams.
Radio Telephony Practice:
Proficiency in radio communication is essential, so engage in real-world RT practice with instructors and peers.
Flight Training:
A significant portion of CPL is practical flight training. Completing the required flying hours and mastering flight maneuvers are critical.
These are the exam formats for CPL exam, which include written theory exams followed by practical flight tests. For those preparing for either exam, it’s important to complete the theory studies as per DGCA guidelines and practice flight maneuvers as required to succeed in both the written and practical parts of the exam.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
General Eligibility
- Age: The candidate must be at least 18 years old.
- Medical Fitness: The candidate must hold a valid Class 2 Medical Certificate issued by a DGCA-authorized medical examiner.
- Educational Qualification: The candidate must have passed at least the 10+2 level of education with Physics and Mathematics from a recognized board.
- Language Proficiency: The candidate must be proficient in English (spoken and written), as it is the language of communication in aviation.
Flying Experience Requirements:
A minimum of 200 hours of total flying time, including:
- 100 hours as pilot-in-command (PIC).
- 20 hours of cross-country flying.
- 10 hours of instrument flying.
- 5 hours of night flying.
Ground School Requirements:
The candidate must complete ground training in subjects such as:
- Air Regulation
- Aviation Meteorology
- Air Navigation
- Aircraft and Engine
- Radio Telephony (RT)
- Flight Planning and Performance
Examination:
The candidate must pass the DGCA's written exams in the following subjects
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-
-
- Air Regulations
- Aviation Meteorology
- Air Navigation
- Technical Block (Aircraft and Engine)
- Radio Telephony (RT)
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-
Skill Test:
After meeting the required flight hours and passing the theoretical exams, the candidate must undergo a flight test (Skill Test) conducted by a DGCA examiner.