DGCA Takes Over RTR Exam, Makes Becoming a Pilot Easier

New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu): Becoming a pilot in the country will now be easier than ever as the government has empowered the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to conduct RTR exam under the Indian Aircraft Act, further promoting ease of doing business and ease of flying for pilots in India.

Earlier, the authority to conduct Radio Telephone Restricted (RTR) exam was with the Department of Telecommunications. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu posted on the social media platform 'X', "The landmark Act 'Indian Aircraft Act' to modernize India's civil aviation ecosystem came into force on 1 January 2025. Promoting ease of doing business and ease of flying for pilots in India, the transformative provisions of the Act empower DGCA to conduct the RTR exam, which was earlier conducted by the Department of Telecommunications. Now with both Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and RTR being issued by DGCA, aspiring pilots will no longer have to face the dual agency process. New RTR rules in this regard have been notified within six months."

Additionally, the Union Minister said, "I believe that this reform will significantly reduce procedural barriers for pilots by establishing a single-window system for certification, thereby attracting more youth to pursue a career in aviation." According to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), RTR is an important exam in aviation. It is necessary for persons operating radio communication equipment in aeronautical services, including pilots, air traffic controllers and aeronautical radio operators. Till now this exam was conducted by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) wing of the Department of Telecommunications in collaboration with DGCA. According to the information, it is mandatory to get a Commercial Pilot License or Airline Transport Pilot License in India.

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