Loan for Pilot Training in India: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Becoming a commercial pilot is a dream for many in India, but the high cost of pilot training can be a major hurdle. Many aspiring pilots require financial assistance to fund their education. Fortunately, several banks and financial institutions offer loans for pilot training in India, helping students achieve their aviation dreams.

Types of Loans Available for Pilot Training

There are mainly two types of loans available for pilot training in India:

Education Loans – Offered by banks and financial institutions for professional courses, including pilot training.

Personal Loans – Can be used for training but often come with higher interest rates and shorter repayment periods.

Banks & Financial Institutions Offering Pilot Training Loans

Several banks and NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies) provide loans for aviation courses, including CPL training:

  1. Public Sector Banks

State Bank of India (SBI) Aviation Loan

Maximum Loan Amount: ₹50 lakh

Interest Rate: 8.50% – 10.50% (varies)

Repayment Tenure: Flexible

Collateral Required: Yes, for loans above ₹7.5 lakh

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

Punjab National Bank (PNB Udaan Loan)

Maximum Loan Amount: ₹50 lakh

Interest Rate: 9% – 11%

Repayment Tenure: Flexible

Security: Collateral required for loans above ₹7.5 lakh

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

  1. Private Sector Banks

HDFC Bank Education Loan

Maximum Loan Amount: ₹40 lakh (higher for select institutes)

Interest Rate: 9% – 12%

Collateral Required: For loans above ₹7.5 lakh

Repayment: Flexible

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

ICICI Bank Education Loan

Maximum Loan Amount: ₹50 lakh

Interest Rate: 9% – 11%

Moratorium Period: Course duration + 6 months

Repayment Tenure: Flexible

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

  1. NBFCs & Private Lenders

Credila (HDFC Education Loan Subsidiary)

Specializes in loans for international pilot training

Collateral required for higher loan amounts

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

Avanse Financial Services

Provides loans for pilot training with flexible repayment options

Interest rates vary based on credit profile

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

Auxilo Education Loan

Up to 100% financing for CPL training

Competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

Tata Capital Education Loan

Offers funding for aviation training with flexible repayment

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

Fly Finance

Specializes in pilot training loans with tailored repayment plans

Loan disbursed only after ground school completion

Eligibility Criteria for Pilot Training Loans

Each lender has specific requirements, but general eligibility criteria include:

Indian nationality

Admission to a DGCA-approved flying school in India or abroad

Minimum educational qualification: 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics

Co-applicant (parent/guardian) for loan sanction

Satisfactory credit score (for co-applicant)

Documents Required

Admission letter from a recognized pilot training academy

Fee structure of the course

KYC documents (Aadhar, PAN, etc.)

Academic certificates (10th, 12th mark sheets)

Income proof of co-applicant (salary slips, ITR, etc.)

Collateral documents (if applicable)

Loan Repayment & Moratorium Period

Most education loans offer a moratorium period (course duration + 6–12 months), allowing students to start repayment only after completing the course. Repayment tenures are flexible, depending on the bank and loan amount.

Alternatives to Bank Loans

Financial Assistance from Airlines – Some airlines sponsor students under a bond agreement.

Crowdfunding & Sponsorships – Alternative financing methods for those who lack collateral or co-applicants.

Conclusion

Pilot training is a rewarding investment. With various banks and financial institutions offering loans for pilot training in India, aspiring pilots can pursue their dreams without financial constraints. Before applying, compare interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria to choose the best financing option for your needs.

Tip: Always check with banks for updated interest rates and terms before applying.