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Pilot Career
CPL vs PPL — Which Pilot Licence Should You Get First?
April 20257 min readBy Auden Aviation Academy
One of the most common questions from aspiring pilots in India is: should I go straight for a CPL, or start with a PPL?
PPL vs CPL
A PPL allows personal, non-commercial flying (min 40 hours). A CPL allows commercial flying and is required by airline pilots (min 200 hours, 5 DGCA exams, Class 1 medical).
Cost Comparison (2025)
- CPL in India: ₹50–60 Lakhs
- CPL in Philippines: ₹65–80 Lakhs
- CPL in USA: ₹70–80 Lakhs
Most serious students go directly for CPL training. Auden Aviation's DGCA Ground School in Jalandhar is your most important first step.