Air India’s renewed focus on fleet expansion and international growth has opened an important opportunity for young, type-rated pilots. The airline has announced recruitment for the Airbus A320 type rating course​, targeting motivated A320-rated Trainee Pilots who are ready to step into a fast-paced airline environment. With a clear eligibility framework and a structured selection process, this hiring drive is expected to attract strong competition across India.

If you are aspiring to fly one of the world’s most widely operated narrow-body aircraft, this guide explains who can apply, what qualifications are required, how the selection process works, and how to prepare smartly for success.

Who Can Apply for Air India A320 Pilot Recruitment?

The recruitment drive is open to pilots who already hold an A320 type endorsement. Both CPL and ATPL holders are eligible, provided all licenses and medicals are current or in the process of renewal.

Eligible Candidates:

• CPL or ATPL holders with A320 endorsement
• Indian Nationals or Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)
• Maximum age limit: up to 30 years

This age cap highlights Air India’s focus on building a long-term pilot workforce, making it an excellent opportunity for young pilots aiming for stable career growth.

Minimum Academic Qualification

Candidates must have:

• 10+2 qualification with Physics and Mathematics
• Degree or certification from a recognized Board or University

This requirement aligns with DGCA standards and is mandatory at the time of application.

Technical & License Requirements (DGCA – India)

To be considered eligible, applicants must meet the following technical and regulatory criteria:

• Current Class-I Medical Fitness Assessment issued by DGCA Ground Classes, India
• Valid CPL or ATPL issued by DGCA
• Current FTROL issued by DGCA
• Valid A320 endorsement on Indian license
• Current Instrument Rating (IR) on A320 endorsed on Indian license
• Valid ELP endorsement
• Current RTR (A) / RTP (P) / RTR (C) issued by WPC, Ministry of Communications
• Mandatory eGCA-ID, with all licenses and documents validated

Important: Candidates awaiting renewal or issuance of licenses or endorsements from the regulatory authority are also allowed to apply, provided documents are current at the time of joining.

License and Certification Prerequisites

Certification	Issuing Authority	Validity
Commercial Pilot License (CPL)	DGCA, India	Lifetime, subject to medical fitness
Airbus A320 Type Rating	DGCA-approved Training Organizations	1 year, requires recurrent training

Important Notes Before You Apply

• All licenses and medical certificates must be valid on the date of joining
• Selected candidates must submit a Police Verification Certificate issued within three months prior to joining
• Pilots currently employed must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer

Ensuring documentation readiness early can prevent delays during the final onboarding stage.

Air India A320 Pilot Selection Process

The recruitment process is multi-stage and designed to assess both technical proficiency and behavioral competencies.

Selection Stages Include:

1. Written Test
2. Psychometric Assessment
3. Group Discussion
4. Personal Interview
5. Simulator Proficiency Assessment Check
6. Pre-Employment Medical Examination

Each stage evaluates a different aspect of a pilot’s readiness—from systems knowledge and decision-making to CRM skills and simulator handling.

How to Prepare Effectively for the Selection Process

1. Written Test & Technical Knowledge

Expect questions on A320 systems, SOPs, performance calculations, and operational procedures. Structured revision and Airbus A320 online training modules can help refresh systems knowledge efficiently, especially for pilots who have been out of active line flying.

2. Psychometric Assessment

This evaluates personality traits, stress handling, and decision-making. Honesty and consistency are key—avoid overthinking answers.

3. Group Discussion & Interview

Communication, teamwork, and leadership are assessed here. Be clear, concise, and professional. Airlines value pilots who demonstrate calm judgment and respect for crew coordination.

4. Simulator Assessment

This is often the most critical stage. Focus on:

• SOP compliance
• Stable approaches
• CRM and workload management
• Handling non-normal situations calmly

Recent simulator practice plays a major role in confidence and performance.

Stage	What to Expect
1. Written Test	A deep dive into aviation subjects, technical specs, and regulations.
2. Psychometric Assessment	Evaluating behavioral traits and stress management.
3. Group Discussion	A test of your teamwork, communication, and logical reasoning.
4. Personal Interview	An interaction with a panel to discuss your goals and experience.
5. Simulator Check	A practical “Proficient Assessment Check” on the A320 simulator.
6. Medical Exam	Final pre-employment medical clearance.

Why A320-Rated Pilots Are in High Demand

With global fleet expansion and increasing aircraft deliveries, a320 pilot recruitment continues to rise across major airlines. The A320 family remains one of the most versatile and widely used aircraft, offering pilots strong international mobility and long-term career stability.

For pilots, this means:

• Faster command progression opportunities
• International route exposure
• Strong demand across multiple airlines worldwide

Essential Documents and Verification Process

The documentation process for A320 pilot recruitment involves several key documents. These include:

• Valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL): Issued by the relevant aviation authority.
• A320 Type Rating Certificate: Specific to the Airbus A320 aircraft.
• Medical Certificate: Class 1 Medical Certificate from an authorised medical examiner.
• Flight Logbook: Detailed records of flight hours and experience.
• Educational Certificates: Proof of required educational qualifications.

All documents are thoroughly verified during the application process to ensure compliance with Air India’s recruitment standards.

Application Deadline

Last Date to Apply: 10 January 2026

Early applications are advised, as recruitment processes often move quickly once shortlisting begins.

Final Thoughts

Air India’s A320 pilot hiring drive is a valuable opportunity for young, type-rated pilots aiming to build a strong airline career. With clear eligibility criteria and a transparent selection process, preparation becomes the deciding factor. Keeping licenses current, strengthening technical knowledge, and maintaining simulator proficiency can significantly improve your chances.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, this recruitment cycle could be the gateway to flying for one of India’s most iconic airlines in its next phase of growth.

FAQs

Q1. What are the eligibility requirements for Air India A320 pilots?
A: Candidates must hold a DGCA-issued CPL or ATPL with a valid Airbus A320 endorsement, Class-I medical, FTROL, IR on A320, ELP, RTR, and a validated eGCA-ID. Applicants must be Indian Nationals or OCI and not more than 30 years of age.

Q2. Is A320 type rating mandatory to apply for Air India pilot recruitment?
A: Yes. A current A320 type endorsement on an Indian license is mandatory. Pilots without an A320 rating are not eligible for this recruitment drive.

Q3. What is the selection process for Air India A320 pilots?
A: The selection process includes a written test, psychometric assessment, group discussion, personal interview, simulator proficiency check, and pre-employment medical examination.

Q4. How can I prepare for the Air India A320 simulator and written test?
A: Preparation should focus on A320 systems, SOPs, performance calculations, CRM, and abnormal procedures. Many candidates revise using airbus a320 online training and recent simulator practice to improve confidence.

Q5. Can pilots currently working with another airline apply for Air India A320 recruitment?
A: Yes. Pilots employed with another airline can apply, but must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current employer at the time of joining if selected.

Q6. What is the last date to apply for Air India A320 pilot recruitment 2026?
A: The last date to submit applications is 10 January 2026.

Q7. Can I apply if my A320 endorsement or Class 1 Medical is currently under renewal?
A: Yes. Air India explicitly states that candidates awaiting issuance or renewal of their license, endorsement, or medical assessment from the DGCA can still apply. However, you must ensure that all documents are fully current and validated at the time of your official joining.