Cadet Pilot Programme- Introduction
Cadet pilot program is the general trend when it comes to flying training today. Lets dive further into it.
There are two ways in which you can achieve your dream to become a pilot.
1. Conventionally
2. Cadet pilot program
If you want to become a pilot conventionally, it simply means that you have to go through the whole process of training on your own. From choosing the flying school to submission of documents to DGCA for the purpose of license processing will have to be done on your own. And finally you will have to also look for a job on your own.
Now, lets talk about Cadet Pilot program. By joining a cadet pilot program you are basically collaborating with an airline. In this program, you are sent to a flying school which is in affiliation with the airline. The training is done as per the standards set by the airline while in coordination with DGCA. Finally on completion of CPL training, type rating etc, the airline gives you a job as a pilot.
Whats the difference??
The main difference between a conventional program and cadet program is the job assurance of an airline, guidance and cost. Now the good things about cadet pilot program is that, not only the job is assured but you are also guided well through the process of getting a license. The major flaw of cadet program is the cost. A cadet program costs almost double as that of conventional program.
Types of Cadet Pilot Program available in India
1. Indigo Cadet Pilot program
Presently the program is closed, but there is news that it will open up in a few months. CAE has partnered with IndiGo in the delivery of a new pathway for the IndiGo Cadet Pilot Programme International Pathway. Selected cadets will train across two of CAE’s academies in India and the USA. It is a self-sponsored International Pathway is jointly designed by CAE and IndiGo to enable you to train for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). And also a Airbus A320 Type Rating with CAE. Finally you are sentto fly as an A320 First Officer with IndiGo.
The cost is 56000-100000 USD for CPL and 31500 USD for type rating on A320.
Contact address is as follows.
CAE GondiaNational Flying Training Institute (NFTI), c/o Airport Authority of India, Birsi Airport, PO Paraswada, Gondia, 441-614, Maharashtra, India
Telephone9545457558 / 9545456266 / 9545456143gondiaacademy@CAE.COM
2. Spicejet Cadet Program
SpiceJet’s Cadet Pilot Programme is a perfect launchpad for those who want to fly high. It is a programme designed for young aspirants eyeing for a seat in the cockpit of an aircraft. A candidate will graduate with a CPL (Indian DGCA) and on completion, he/she is immediately sent for ‘Type Rating’ on either a Q400 or a B737.
The cost to get this done is close to 90 lakhs plus taxes and admission charges are separate.
You can contact them here:
Mail cadetpilot@spicestaracademy.edu.in
Phone +91 9811 006 677
Location Spice Star Academy,Building no – 39,Sector 18, Gurugram, Haryana 122001
3. Air Asia cadet pilot program
Air Asia cadet program is a great launchpad to initiate an exciting career in aviation. Envision yourself at the helm of an Airbus A320 as a commercial pilot.
Air Asia recently expanded in Indian Aviation Industry. Now to cater its need for Aviators, Air Asia has come up with Cadet Pilot Program with New Zealand Airline
Cost is between 87 lakhs to 1 cr.
Contact address is as follows
Unitech Business Park, Tower A, 5th Floor, South City 1, Opposite Huda Metro Station, Gurugram 122003.
Conclusion
Let me be very blunt, if you want a job guarantee, cadet pilot program is the way to go. The conventional way is better, if you are looking for an economic way to do your training. I would like to also warn you that, even after completion of cadet pilot program, many of the pilots are unemployed, while the airlines are citing reasons like the pandemic, accumulation of losses etc. Becoming a pilot is a high investment, high risk trade, but the returns are definitely high.
Feel free to contact me for more information.
Thankyou