The process of becoming a pilot in India has become easier. The DGCA now has the authority to conduct the RTR exam. Previously, this exam was conducted by the Department of Telecommunications. This will bring transparency and speed to the process.
Pilot RTR Exam: The process of becoming a pilot in India has now become simpler than ever before. The central government has handed over the authority to conduct the Radio Telephone Restricted (RTR) exam to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Previously, this exam was under the purview of the Department of Telecommunications. This decision will bring transparency, save time, and simplify the process of becoming a pilot.
What will change with the DGCA getting the authority to conduct the RTR exam?
Until now, pilots had to go through the processes of two different agencies. The Commercial Pilot License (CPL) was obtained from the DGCA, while permission for the RTR certificate had to be obtained from the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) wing of the Department of Telecommunications. Now, this entire system has come under a single agency, i.e., the DGCA. This means that candidates can now obtain both CPL and RTR certificates from the DGCA.
Information shared by the Union Minister
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu shared information about this decision through social media. He stated that this change has been made under the Indian Aircraft Act 2025, which came into effect on January 1, 2025. The government's objective is to make the aviation sector more organized, efficient, and accessible to the youth.
The process of becoming a pilot will be faster and more transparent
With the DGCA taking over the responsibility of the RTR exam, the entire process will now be more transparent. This step will also reduce systemic delays. Applicants will no longer have to deal with the portals and processes of different agencies.
What is an RTR certificate?
RTR, or Radio Telephone Restricted certificate, is a mandatory certificate for pilots, air traffic controllers, and other aeronautical communication officers. This certificate is essential for operating radio communication equipment between aircraft and ground control. This means that no pilot can use communication equipment during a flight without passing the RTR exam.
All facilities will be available from one platform
The government is now preparing to introduce a single-window system so that pilots can get all the services related to licensing and certification on a single platform. The Union Minister has said that the new RTR rules will be notified in the next six months. After this, this system will be fully implemented.
A great opportunity for the youth
This decision will make the path to becoming a pilot easier for the youth than ever before. Previously, the lack of coordination between the two departments and time-consuming processes discouraged candidates. Now, the integrated process will boost their confidence, and more youth will be able to make the aviation sector their career choice.
Increase in the role and responsibility of DGCA
Now that the DGCA will also conduct the RTR exam, its responsibility and role will become even more significant. This will give the DGCA overall control over training, assessment, and certification, thereby maintaining quality and transparency throughout the entire process.
