the right choice for beginners

by priyesh verma
(delhi,india)

Hi, I am Priyesh from India.I have always been wanting to become a pilot. Currently I am on the verge of completion of my school, and would be opting for my profession which is into aviation. But should I think of getting a college degree before venturing into pilot training or should I now start right away. Will not getting a professional degree anyway make me behind those who have it during the selection?

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Priyesh,

There are 2 thoughts to this. The first go get a degree and the second, don't get a degree. I can speak for Canada, but I'm not sure about what the hiring process is like In India.

In Canada, the old way to get into the major airlines was to get your license, fly a bush plane for a few years, and then progress up the ladder. There was no requirement for a degree. Now that has changed. Today, if you look at Air Canada's hiring page for pilots, it says that in order to be the most competitive you should have a university degree, as well as a diploma from an Aviation College (plus about 5000hrs).

My best advise is to contact the major airlines in India and see what they require for hiring. If they ask for a degree, then go get one. If not, just get your license and work your way up the ladder.

Cheers