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So, your child wants to become a pilot. It is a big dream, and as a parent, you naturally want to support it. However, with that dream comes a significant amount of responsibility, particularly when it comes to selecting the right flying school.

Pilot training in India is a significant investment, both financially and emotionally. And, sadly, not all flying academies deliver on their promises. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for and what to avoid.

Here are 7 red flags that parents should keep in mind before enrolling their child into any pilot training program.

1. Costs that aren’t clearly explained

Pilot training can cost anything between ₹50-60 lakhs, and even more. However, be cautious of the hidden charges that some schools may not disclose upfront.

Ask:

● Is the entire fee structure clearly outlined in writing?

● Are costs like exams, uniforms, headset, simulator time, GST, and accommodation included?

● Are there any additional costs we should be aware of later?

A Flying Academy that is honest about money from the start is usually serious about everything else too.

2. Too few aircraft for too many students

If a flying school has a limited number of aircraft and a high volume of students, your child may not receive sufficient flying time each month.
This leads to delays and frustration.

Ask:

● How many aircraft are available for training?

● How does the school ensure that every student receives regular flight time?

● What is the average flying time per student in a month?

More aircraft means faster progress, less waiting, and better training.

3. Long gaps in flying or delays in training

Inconsistent or irregular flying schedules can slow down the overall training timeline. Long gaps between flights may affect a student’s confidence, learning momentum, and flying skills.

Ask:

● How long does the complete training typically take, from admission to Commercial Pilot License (CPL)?

● How often are students able to fly in a month?

● Are weather or maintenance delays handled efficiently?

Regular flying is key to finishing training on time, and without extra costs.

4. No guidance for the next step after CPL

Getting a CPL is the first step. But what comes after? Some schools do not provide assistance to students with airline interviews, type ratings, or job readiness.

Ask:

● Is there a partnership with Type Rating providers?

● Does the academy offer any airline preparation sessions?

● Do you guide students on what to do after CPL?

Your child needs direction even after CPL. A good academy should be part of that journey.

5. Poor maintenance or safety standards

Safety is non-negotiable in aviation. If aircraft are not properly maintained or are frequently grounded, that’s a serious concern.

Ask:

● How often are the aircraft maintained?

● Does the academy have its own maintenance team?

● Are maintenance and safety audits done regularly?

Well-maintained aircraft ensure safety and smooth training without long delays.

‍6. No transparency in DGCA results or regulatory approvals?

When an academy isn’t upfront about its DGCA records or success rates, it’s better to ask questions than assume everything is fine.

Ask:

● Are you DGCA-approved for a Commercial Pilot's License (CPL) and ground school?

● What is the pass rate for DGCA exams in recent batches?

● Is the approval certificate up to date?

Always ensure that the academy is approved by DGCA. An approved and transparent school is usually reliable and accountable.

7. No Regular Communication with Parents

You’re investing not just money, but trust. Parents deserve to be informed and updated, especially if your child is staying away from home.

Ask:

● How does the academy maintain connections with parents throughout the training journey?

● Is there a point of contact I can reach out to during training?

● Can parents attend milestone events, such as the first solo flight or CPL completion?

Effective communication brings peace of mind to both students and parents. 

What makes Chimes Aviation Academy different?

At Chimes Aviation Academy (CAA), we take pride in addressing each of the red flags — and doing things differently:

● Transparent, upfront pricing

● 25 aircraft = high availability

● Consistent flying hours and optimum Instructor-student ratio

● Airline readiness and Type Rating assistance

● In-house maintenance, safety-first culture

● Up-to-date communication and clear documentation

● A professional, approachable team that keeps you informed

Choosing a flying school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child’s future. Don’t go by glossy websites or just word-of-mouth — ask the right questions, visit the campus, meet the team, and speak to current cadets.

Because when you choose wisely, you’re not just buying training — you’re investing in your child’s dream.