DGCA Issues 1,331 Commercial Pilot Licences in 2026

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued 1,331 commercial pilot licences (CPLs) in India up to 30 June 2026. The data was placed before the Rajya Sabha on 20 July 2026 by the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol.

Commercial Pilot Licence in India

A commercial pilot licence is a licence that permits a pilot to fly aircraft for remuneration under civil aviation rules. In India, the DGCA is the statutory authority that regulates pilot licensing, flight crew standards, and aviation safety under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Training Pathways for CPL Holders

Out of the 1,331 CPLs issued in 2026 up to 30 June, 540 cadets, or 41%, received training from foreign Flying Training Organisations (FTOs). The remaining 791 cadets obtained their CPLs after training at Indian Flying Training Organisations (FTOs).

Flying Training Organisations in India

India has 41 DGCA-approved Flying Training Organisations operating across 63 bases. These FTOs have a combined fleet of more than 400 training aircraft, which are used for ab initio flying instruction and licence conversion training.

Important Facts for Exams

• The DGCA functions under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and regulates civil aviation in India.
• A commercial pilot licence is different from a private pilot licence because it allows flying for hire or reward.
• Flying Training Organisations in India require DGCA approval for pilot training operations.
• India’s airline sector has created sustained demand for pilots because of fleet expansion and network growth.

Pilot Training and Regulatory Context

The government is working on measures to strengthen pilot training infrastructure in India. The regulatory framework for pilot training is also under revision to improve training capacity and operational efficiency.