When I first dreamt of becoming a pilot, I heard all sorts of myths that made the journey seem even harder. People had their own versions of what it takes to fly, and honestly, if I had believed them, I might never have made it. 

Having lived through the struggles of getting my CPL, facing rejections, walking miles in scorching heat just to teach and survive, and finally making it to the cockpit, I’ve learned that most of these so-called “facts” are just myths that discourage aspiring pilots. So, let’s bust them once and for all! 

Myth 1: You Need to Be a Top Student in Math and Science 

Sometimes I wonder why physics and math are mandatory requirements in India to become a pilot. If I tell you my example, I was not good at physics, although I was comfortable with math. In aviation, we primarily need basic math skills for distance, speed, and time calculations, weight and balance calculations, and interpreting performance charts—very basic things. 

if you have a feeling that you are not good in maths and physics that is absolutely fine and there are few things few concept which can be built in very maybe in few days and if you have not done your tell place to Physics in maths you can clear it from just learn some basic things and you will be set to take off 

Myth 2: You Must Be Extremely Wealthy to Become a Pilot 

If you take my story, I am from a very humble, middle-class family, and for my CPL, I took a loan. So, when a person like me, who is from a middle-class background, can become a pilot by taking those steps, then why can't you? You don’t need to be wealthy to become a pilot. If you take baby steps, approach banks for loans, and seek scholarships, I think you have a chance. Most of my friends and pilots I know come from similarly modest backgrounds. If I can become a pilot, then you can definitely become one too. 

Myth 3: Pilots Have the Most Glamorous Life 

So, this is not the case these days. While being a pilot may have seemed glamorous in the past, it is now considered one of the most demanding jobs. It can be very stressful, and you need to be truly committed and passionate about flying. It requires a lot of dedication, as you often have to wake up at midnight or early in the morning consecutively. You may need to fly overnight, and back-to-back flights can happen, sometimes involving aircraft changes or being halted at the airport, which can lead to fatigue and tiredness. So, if you are coming for the glamour then I think I don't think it is a right choice for you. 

Myth 4: Once You Become a Pilot, You’re Set for Life 

In the initial stage, you learn a lot from your instructors and captains. Once you start getting comfortable, you begin studying for your ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License). After a couple of years—around four years—you start your command training, which includes rigorous simulation training and operational procedures. This is absolutely a continuous learning process, and it's essential to become a better pilot and a true professional. 

And this applies to every industry; you have to keep updating yourself and engage in continuous learning so that you become better and better every day. 

Myth 5: Pilots Have No Work-Life Balance 

I think it largely depends on how you manage work-life balance. I have seen some pilots struggling to maintain that balance, while others manage it very well. Some pilots are engaged in various activities; they do well in their studies, enjoy social gatherings, and maintain good relationships with their families and kids. It really depends on your ability to manage your time effectively. Better life management and life skills are essential.  

Myth 6: Only the Rich or Highly Connected Can Become Pilots 

So, it is absolutely not true that only rich people or those with strong connections can become pilots. Most of my pilot friends come from non-aviation backgrounds, and many are from very modest, middle-class backgrounds. People from middle-class and diverse backgrounds can become pilots, so if you don't have affluent connections, you can still pursue this path. I suggest starting to connect with experienced professionals in the field to gain insights and guidance. 

Final Thoughts 

There will always be many mixed truths, so just follow your heart and chase your dreams. Keep writing down your goals and affirmations, and visualize yourself in a pilot's uniform. Trust me, your dream is not far away. 

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