Renewed My Indian ATPL: Here’s What’s Changed 2025

renewing my Indian ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence). But what made this renewal different from all the others over the past 15+ years wasn’t just the routine paperwork, It was the regulatory change itself.

ATPL Validity: Now 10 Years

In a welcome move, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has extended the validity of the Indian ATPL from 5 years to 10 years This change brings Indian licensing more in line with global standards and adds long-term ease for professional pilots,

For me, this change reflects more than just a longer date on a certificate it’s symbolic of maturity in the Indian civil aviation system.

The Catch: IR Validity Still Annual

However, there’s a new requirement woven into this reform: your Instrument Rating (IR) must still be validated every year.

What It Means for Pilots Like Me

For working airline pilots, the new 10-year ATPL validity won’t drastically change our routinesour proficiency checks, simulator assessments, and 6 monthly IR PPC were always part of the cycle. .As I stood with my freshly renewed license, I reflected not just on the journey since my first issue date but also on the miles still ahead.

✈️ Have questions about renewing your indian ATPL or the new regulations? Drop them in the comments or reach out always happy to share cockpit wisdom