Converting a foreign Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) to an Indian license involves adhering to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations. The conversion process ensures that foreign-trained pilots meet Indian aviation standards before operating commercially in India.
General Requirements for CPL and ATPL Conversion:
- Valid Foreign License and Medical Assessment:
- Possess a valid foreign CPL or ATPL issued by an International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) contracting state.
- Hold a valid Class-I Medical Assessment from the state of license issuance.
- Flight Experience Documentation:
- Submit authenticated logbooks detailing flight experience, including dates, aircraft types, crew status (e.g., Pilot-in-Command), flight hours (day/night), cross-country flights, instrument time, and simulator training.
- DGCA Theoretical Examinations:
- Pass DGCA-conducted theoretical exams covering subjects such as Air Navigation, Meteorology, and Air Regulations.
- Skill Tests in India:
- Undergo skill tests in India on at least one aircraft type to be endorsed on the Indian license. This includes general flying tests by day and night, and a cross-country flight test.
- Instrument Rating (IR):
- If seeking an Instrument Rating, provide evidence of at least 50 hours of Pilot-in-Command (PIC) cross-country flight time.
- Demonstrate a minimum of 40 hours of instrument time, with at least 20 hours on actual or simulated aircraft and up to 20 hours on a simulator.
- English Language Proficiency:
- Demonstrate proficiency in Aviation English. If the foreign license indicates English proficiency, it may be endorsed on the Indian license.
Specific Steps for License Conversion:
- Document Verification:
- Obtain a verification letter from the foreign licensing authority confirming the authenticity of your license.
- Medical Examination:
- Obtain a DGCA Class-I Medical Certificate from an authorized medical examiner in India.
- Theoretical Examinations:
- Register and appear for DGCA theoretical examinations. Thorough preparation is essential due to the rigorous nature of these exams.
- Flight Skill Test:
- Complete the required flight tests at a DGCA-approved flying school in India.
- Application Submission:
- Submit all necessary documents, including verified logbooks, exam results, medical certificates, and proof of flight experience, to the DGCA for assessment.
Additional Considerations:
- Flight Experience Requirements:
- Ensure that your flight experience aligns with DGCA standards. Any deficiencies may require additional training.
- Processing Time:
- The conversion process can take several months, depending on document verification, exam schedules, and DGCA processing times.
- Instrument Rating Adjustments:
- Adapt to DGCA’s Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) standards, which may differ from those of the original licensing authority.
For detailed guidelines and updates, refer to the DGCA’s official requirements for license issuance.
By meticulously following these steps and ensuring compliance with DGCA regulations, pilots can successfully convert their foreign CPL or ATPL to an Indian license, enabling them to operate commercially in India.