What to Read to Become a Pilot in India

Becoming a pilot is a dream career for many, but before you take to the skies, you’ll spend a lot of time on the ground studying. Whether you're preparing for your Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) or starting out with a Private Pilot Licence (PPL), having the right study material is crucial.

In this blog, we’re sharing a genuine list of books and official resources based on the DGCA syllabus to help every aspiring pilot whether you're enrolled in a Ground School or preparing on your own.

1. DGCA Exam Preparation Books (Subject-Wise)

To clear the DGCA exams, you must prepare subject-wise using DGCA-approved syllabus and reliable reference books. Here are some widely recommended titles:

✈️ Air Navigation

• "Oxford Aviation Air Navigation" by Oxford ATPL Series

• "Aviation Navigation Notes" – Indian CPL student compilations

• Flight Computer (E6B or CRP-5) – essential for time/distance/speed problems

✈️ Aviation Meteorology

• "Manual of Aviation Meteorology" by the India Meteorological Department

• "Oxford Aviation Meteorology" – ATPL reference

• DGCA’s Met Charts + METAR/TAF decoding guides

✈️ Air Regulations

• "Air Regulations Simplified" by Indian aviation educators

• DGCA CARs (Civil Aviation Requirements) – available at dgca.gov.in

• ICAO Annex summaries – 1, 2, 6, 8, and 10

✈️ Technical General

• "Aircraft Technical General" by David Robson (General Aviation Series)

• "Principles of Flight" by Oxford ATPL Series

• Indian student-compiled notes based on DGCA modules

✈️ Technical Specific

• Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) of your training aircraft
  (e.g., Cessna 152/172, Tecnam P2006T) – provided by your FTO

• Aircraft-specific engine and system briefs

✈️ RTR (Aero) – Radio Telephony

• "Guide to Radio Telephony" (DGCA aligned oral + written)

• WPC & DGCA sample questions for Part I (written) and Part II (oral)

• Phraseology practice sets and simulated ATC conversations

✈ Bonus Reading for Aspiring Pilots

Even if you're not attending Ground School, the following books offer deep insight into real-world flying:

• “Stick and Rudder” by Wolfgang Langewiesche – timeless flight fundamentals

• “The Pilot’s Manual Series” – FAA-recommended, practical and clear

• “Flying the Weather Map” – real-life weather decision-making

• "Human Factors for Pilots" – helps with CRM and airline readiness
  

2. Books for Practical Flying Skills

In addition to theory, reading about real flying techniques can boost your understanding and confidence. Some helpful reads include:

• Flight Training Handbooks aligned with Indian training standards

• Instructor notes on takeoff/landing techniques, stalls, and emergencies

• Aircraft logbooks and post-flight debriefing guides

3. Airline Interview Preparation (Optional)

If you plan to apply for airline jobs post-CPL, focus on:

• Human performance and limitations

• CRM (Crew Resource Management) basics

• Interview prep questions shared by instructors or seniors

Skylok Aviation provides specialized airline prep sessions as part of our advanced training packages.

4. DGCA & ICAO Resources (Free + Official)

These sources are freely available online and provide official information:

• DGCA India – https://dgca.gov.in
  Access Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs), exam guidelines, and notifications.

• WPC Wing – https://wpc.dot.gov.in
  For Radio Telephony (RTR) exam instructions and updates.

• ICAO Annexes – Annexes 1, 2, 6, 8, and 10 are part of CPL syllabus
  Simplified explanations are usually included in good CPL notes.

5. Optional: Learn with Expert Support

While self-study is possible with the right dedication, some students prefer structured guidance, mock tests, and instructor-led classes.

For those seeking expert help, Skylok Aviation offers DGCA-aligned Ground School courses with:

1. Online & Offline Lecture Access

2. Study Notes for All DGCA Subjects

3. Weekly Mock Tests & Feedback

4. Oral Prep for RTR (A)

5. Aircraft Technical Briefings

6. Interview Readiness Support

Start learning with us at: https://skyave.graphy.com

Final Thoughts

You don’t need expensive prep courses to start your journey, just the right books, commitment, and a clear plan. Whether you study independently or join a Ground School, the goal is the same: becoming a safe, skilled, and certified pilot.

At Skylok Aviation, we’re proud to support both self-learners and full-time students. Wherever you are in your journey, we’re here to help.

📞 Questions?

Feel free to reach out to us or apply directly to our next Ground School batch.
Your wings start with the right words.