IndiGo, Air India and Akasa run cadet pathways that take you from zero hours to their own flight deck. They are excellent — and expensive, competitive, and not the right fit for everyone. Here is how to think about them honestly.
The airline selects you first, then sends you to a partner flying school. Training is standardised, and a conditional job offer typically awaits at the end — in exchange for a premium cost and a highly competitive selection process.
The independent route (ground school → flying abroad → conversion) usually costs less and keeps every airline open to you; the cadet route buys certainty with one airline. Neither is universally better — your budget, academics and risk appetite decide.
We prepare students for cadet selections — aptitude, simulator screening, psychometrics and interviews — and give honest advice on whether a cadet programme or the independent route fits your case better.
Our complete guide to the IndiGo cadet pathway — structure, costs, selection stages, and how to prepare for each.
Detailed guides are in preparation. Until then, speak to a mentor for current programme status, intake windows and costs.
Ask a mentor →Tell us your academics and budget — we will give you an honest comparison for your specific case, within 24 hours.
Tell us your background — a mentor will map your exact route, honestly, within 24 hours.