Class 12 Physics & Math Requirement for Becoming Commercial Pilot Might be Scrapped: Report
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is planning to scrap the current rule that requires students to have studied Physics and Math in Class 12 to be eligible for commercial pilot licence training. In India, commercial pilot training has been restricted to Science and Math students since the mid-1990s, as per Times of India. This move is expected to open up new opportunities for students from Arts and Commerce streams to pursue a career in aviation.
Currently, the DGCA rules require candidates to have studied Physics, Math, and English in Class 12 to be eligible for commercial pilot training. This rule was introduced in the mid-1990s to ensure that pilots have a strong foundation in mathematical and scientific concepts, which are essential for navigating and operating aircraft.
However, in a recent report, it has been suggested that the DGCA is considering relaxing this rule to allow students from Arts and Commerce streams to pursue commercial pilot training. This move is expected to increase the pool of eligible candidates and provide more opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to pursue a career in aviation.
The decision to scrap the Physics and Math requirement is believed to be a result of the growing demand for commercial pilots in India. The Indian aviation industry is expected to require over 1,000 new pilots every year for the next 10 years, making it a high-growth sector. To meet this demand, the DGCA is considering ways to increase the supply of qualified pilots.
The DGCA has been discussing the proposal with various stakeholders, including aviation industry experts, educational institutions, and students. While some experts believe that the current rule is necessary to ensure that pilots have the necessary mathematical and scientific knowledge, others argue that it is too restrictive and limits the pool of eligible candidates.
“Aviation is a field that requires a combination of skills and knowledge, including technical, communication, and problem-solving skills,” said a DGCA official. “While Physics and Math are important subjects, they are not the only requirements for becoming a commercial pilot. We are considering ways to make the training process more accessible and inclusive for students from diverse backgrounds.”
The proposal to scrap the Physics and Math requirement is expected to have a significant impact on the aviation industry in India. It is likely to increase the number of students applying for commercial pilot training and provide more opportunities for women and students from rural areas to pursue a career in aviation.
In addition, the move is expected to reduce the financial burden on students who currently have to take additional courses to meet the Physics and Math requirement. This could make commercial pilot training more accessible and affordable for students from lower-income backgrounds.
The DGCA is expected to make a final decision on the proposal in the coming months. If approved, the new rule is expected to come into effect from the next academic year.
