After gaining entry into a commercial airline they first work for about a year as a trainee pilot. The Captain of an aircraft is totally responsible for the passengers as well as the crew. Before departure the Captain with help of his other cockpit-crew members plans the flight carefully. In addition the Captain also needs to brief the cabin-crew and speak to the passengers from time to time. Short listed candidates are interviewed.
Final selection is on basis of the performance both in the written test as well as in the interview.
For SPL a theory exam, covering Air Regulations, Aviation Meteorology and Air Navigation, is conducted by flying clubs in every state. Selection for appearing in the SPL test is though an oral exam held every month. Minimum age is 16 years and minimum qualification is class Xth for taking the exam. In addition one also has to obtain a medical fitness certificate and furnish a bank guarantee worth Rs ten thousand. After obtaining SPL the candidate becomes eligible for taking flying lessons, first with the instructor and then solo.