TRAINING PROGRAMME

DGCA Training Programme

Coming soon

64 weeks full-time

Auckland International Pilot Academy (AIPA) is proud to offer the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) programme specifically designed for students pursuing an aviation career in India. It consists of several Micro-credentials, and conforms to the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) pilot licence and rating requirements, recognising learners’ skills, experience and knowledge while meeting the demands and expectations of employers, industry and communities.

This Flight Training Program is tailored specifically for students aspiring to achieve their dreams of becoming a pilot in India. Upon returning to India, students will have all of the requirements to convert their New Zealand license to a DGCA license with multi-engine and IFR privileges, unlocking unlimited opportunities with domestic & international airlines, charter services, cargo carriers, and even the chance to become flight instructors or pursue corporate aviation roles.

As a Category 1 Provider*, last assessed at the External Evaluation and Review dated 10 November 2022, we guarantee exceptional outcomes.

By obtaining a New Zealand pilot’s licence, you open doors to exciting career pathways in the aviation industry. Upon completing the program, you will not only possess a highly prestigious New Zealand license but will have also gained invaluable international flying experience. This enhances your employability both in India and worldwide. Embark on your journey with us and soar to new heights in your aviation career.

Start your training in DGCA with us:

Instructor-student Ratio

Benefit from personalized attention and mentorship with our low student-to-instructor ratio. This allows for tailored training plans to fit your unique learning pace and style.

Hands-On Learning

Experience a balanced curriculum with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, designed to prepare you for the real-world challenges of an aviation career.

Flexible courses and timings

We understand your commitments. That’s why we offer flexible course schedules, allowing you to balance your training with other personal or professional obligations.

Alumni Network

Join a thriving network of successful alumni who are making their mark in the aviation industry worldwide.

Details of the programme:

Entry Requirements


Be competent in spoken English to meet CAANZ requirements:

  • International students and students for whom English is a second language must have evidence within two years of enrolment of achieving an IELTS academic score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5 or meet other requirements under Rule 18 in the NZQF Programme Approval and Accreditation Rules and;
  • Have passed the English Language Proficiency Test provided by ASPEQ.

Entry Requirements

  • Be 18 years of age or over;
  • Successfully complete the ADAPT Trainee Pilot Pre-screening Test;
  • Hold NCEA Level 3, PPL Theory subjects or Equivalent;
  • Hold an Aviation Class 1 medical certificate;
  • Meet the ‘Fit & Proper Person’ requirements of CAANZ;
  • Pass an interview with Chief Flying Instructor (CFI).

Successful graduates will have:


  • Private Pilot Licence
  • Commercial Pilot Licence (with night privileges)
  • 215 hours of total flight experience
  • 100 hours Pilot in Command flight experience
  • 31 hours of Total Multi Engine Flight Experience
  • 10 hours of Night flight experience
  • 41 hours of Instrument Time
  • 20 hours of Multi-Engine Instrument Flight Time

Career Pathways


Graduates of this qualification can work as commercial pilots in New Zealand, operating an aeroplane engaged in general aviation under the relevant Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAANZ) Rules or in the associated support industries, including flight planning and scheduling.

Upon returning to India, graduates will have all of the requirements to convert their New Zealand license to a DGCA license with multi-engine and IFR privileges, unlocking numerous opportunities with domestic & international airlines, charter services, cargo carriers, and even the chance to become flight instructors or pursue corporate aviation roles.

Upcoming full-time ground course intakes

14th October 2024

5th May 2025

4th November 2024

16th June 2025

20th January 2025

11th August 2025

10th February 2025

13 October 2025