HOW TO BECOME A PILOT IN BANGLADESH – involves a structured process regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). Here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you:
1. Educational Requirements
- Age: You must be at least 17 years old to begin training for a Private Pilot License (PPL) and 18 years old for a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- Education: A minimum of five credits in O-Level or equivalent examinations, including English Language, Mathematics, and Physics.
2. Medical Certification
- Class 2 Medical Certificate: Required for a PPL.
- Class 1 Medical Certificate: Required for a CPL.
These certificates can be obtained from a CAAB-approved medical examiner.
3. Choose a Flight Training Program
- Integrated Training: Combines ground and flight training, leading directly to a CPL.
- Modular Training: Begins with a PPL, followed by additional ratings and hours to obtain a CPL.
4. Enroll in an Accredited Flight School
Bangladesh has several CAAB-approved flying schools offering various pilot training programs. Here are some notable institutions:
5. Accumulate Required Flight Hours
- Private Pilot License (PPL): Minimum of 40 flight hours.
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): Minimum of 200 flight hours, including solo flights, cross-country flights, and night flying.
6. Pass Theoretical and Practical Examinations
- Theoretical Exams: Cover subjects such as Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations, and Aircraft Technical Knowledge.
- Practical Test: Demonstrate your flying skills and ability to handle various flight scenarios.
7. Additional Ratings and Endorsements
Depending on your career goals, you may need:
- Instrument Rating (IR): Allows flying in various weather conditions using instruments.
- Multi-Engine Rating (MER): Permits operation of aircraft with more than one engine.
8. Explore Career Opportunities
After obtaining your CPL and additional ratings, you can pursue various flying careers:
- Airline Pilot: Fly for commercial airlines.
- Corporate Pilot: Operate private jets for businesses.
- Flight Instructor: Teach aspiring pilots.
9. Understand the Costs
Pilot training in Bangladesh can be a significant investment. The total cost varies based on the training program and institution but generally ranges between BDT 22 lakh to BDT 30 lakh.
10. Stay Informed
Regularly consult the CAAB’s official website or contact authorized flight schools for the latest regulations and requirements.
Embarking on a career as a pilot in Bangladesh requires careful planning, dedication, and a passion for aviation. By following these steps and choosing the right training program, you can achieve your goal of becoming a licensed pilot.