CADET stands for Cadet Admission and Recruitment Training program — a pathway where airlines partner with flying schools to train future pilots from scratch under their branding.

IndiGo, Air India, and sometimes others like Qatar Airways, Emirates (overseas) offer cadet pilot programs.

CADET is directly linked with airline branding and selection; regular CPL is self-sponsored without airline placement assurance.

Eligibility criteria for the CADET program varies by airline. Common requirements include:

• Indian nationality
• Age: 17–32 years (IndiGo), 17–35 years (Air India)
• Class 12 with Physics & Maths
• Class 1 medical (or fit to obtain)
• Fluent in English

It offers conditional job assurance, subject to performance, completion of training, and airline requirements.

• Online application
• ADAPT & Aptitude tests (physics, math, psychometric)
• Group discussion
• Personal interview
• Class 1 Medical
• Letter of Intent (LOI) Signing

Usually ₹95 lakhs to ₹1.25 crore, depending on the airline and flight school (IndiGo or Air India program).

Between 18 to 24 months, depending on weather, medicals, and visa processing (for overseas flying).

You receive brand-assured training, structured pathway to airlines, and early exposure to airline SOPs.

Visa processing help, flight tickets, and living expenses are provided.

Yes, most CADET programs include type rating of concerned aircraft at the end of the program.

• High cost
• Bond obligations
• Limited flexibility to switch airlines
• Long payback duration for education loans

Yes, most programs have loan tie-ups with banks like SBI, HDFC, Axis Bank, etc.

You may be removed from the program or asked to repeat at additional cost. Some airlines may defer placement.

Very competitive — each airline selects only a few from thousands of applicants.

Usually 17–32/35 years at the time of joining.

Yes, but exit penalties apply, and refunds are rarely provided.