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. This significant change has been reported by Times of India, and if implemented, it would be a major shift in the requirements for aspiring commercial pilots in India.
For decades, commercial pilot training in India has been restricted to students who have studied Science and Math in Class 12. This rule has been in place since the mid-1990s, effectively limiting the pool of eligible candidates to those who have taken Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) subjects. However, the DGCA’s proposed change could open up the field to students who have pursued Arts and Commerce streams in Class 12.
The decision to scrap the Physics and Math requirement is reportedly being considered by the DGCA to increase the diversity of candidates applying for commercial pilot training. The move is aimed at attracting a broader range of students, including those from non-STEM backgrounds, to pursue a career in commercial aviation.
Currently, the DGCA requires aspiring commercial pilots to have a valid Class 12 certificate with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate, along with a minimum of 50% marks in Physics and Math separately. The proposed change would eliminate the need for students to have studied Physics and Math in Class 12, allowing Arts and Commerce students to apply for commercial pilot training.
The DGCA’s decision is seen as a step towards increasing diversity and inclusivity in the aviation industry. By opening up the field to students from non-STEM backgrounds, the DGCA hopes to attract a more diverse pool of candidates, which could lead to a more representative and skilled workforce in the industry.
The change is also expected to have a positive impact on the training institutions and pilot training programs in India. With a broader range of students eligible to apply, training institutions can expect an increase in demand for their programs, which could lead to an expansion of their offerings and a more competitive market.
While the proposed change is a significant step forward, it’s worth noting that the DGCA is likely to put in place alternative requirements to ensure that aspiring commercial pilots have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate an aircraft safely. The agency may introduce additional training modules or exams to assess the candidates’ understanding of Physics and Math, even if they did not study these subjects in Class 12.
The DGCA’s decision is subject to approval from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Indian Parliament. If approved, the change is expected to come into effect in the near future, allowing Arts and Commerce students to apply for commercial pilot training.
The news comes as a welcome development for students who have pursued non-STEM streams in Class 12. For many, the prospect of a career in commercial aviation has been closed off due to the current requirements. The proposed change could open up new opportunities for them and provide a more inclusive and diverse workforce in the aviation industry.
As the DGCA continues to review and refine its requirements, it’s clear that the agency is committed to creating a more inclusive and diverse aviation industry in India. The proposed change to the Physics and Math requirement is just one step towards achieving this goal, and it’s likely to have a positive impact on the industry as a whole.
