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World-Class U.S. Flight Training for India’s Future Airline Pilots

DGCA-Compliant Airline Pilot Program

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At OCFC, history isn’t just remembered -
it’s flown every day.

In 1981, a small team of aviators with big dreams created a place where passion met purpose. From a single corner of John Wayne Airport, Orange County Flight Center was born—a home for those who dared to look upward and say, ‘I want to fly.’

1981

OCFC founded at John Wayne Airport

1990s

Expanded fleet and advanced training programs

2000s

Recognized as a premier Southern California training center

2010s

Welcomed international students from more than 35 countries

2020s

Continuing to innovate with new technology and global expansion

1981

OCFC founded at John Wayne Airport

2000s

Recognized as a premier Southern California training center

2020s

Continuing to innovate with new technology and global expansion

1990s

Expanded fleet and advanced training programs

2010s

Welcomed international students from more than 35 countries

Four decades later, the spirit that built OCFC still guides us—excellence, safety, and the belief that every student carries a dream worth lifting into the sky.

Your Pathway to Global Pilot Excellence

Learn to Fly at a Premier FAA - Approved Flight School

Explore Our Flight Training Programs

Unlock Your Aviation Career at OCFC
Tailored for Indian International Students

  • Airline Pilot Program
  • Private Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Rating
  • Commercial Rating
  • Multi-Engine Private & Commercial
  • Certified Flight Instructor & Instrument
  • Airline Transport Pilot
  • The 40-Hour Challenge (PPL to CPL)
  • Type rating. B737NG/800; A320
  • ATP/CTP

Start your journey with us today!

Operating Under the Code of Federal Regulations Title 14, Part 141 Approved by the California State Approving Agency for Veterans Education (CSAAVE) under Title 38, U.S. Code

We offer training for both domestic and international students. We are authorized to issue I-20’s for a M-1 visa application.

AIRLINE/COMMERCIAL PILOT TRAINING PROGRAM TERM JANUARY 15, 2026 THROUCH DECEMBER 15, 2026

ENROLLMENT OPEN 365 DAYS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

DGCA COMPLIANT AIRLINE PILOT PROGRAM

A Global Demand for Skilled Airline Pilots

Now is the best time to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. With more than 80,000 pilots aged 65 and above retiring or approaching mandatory retirement, the demand for new aviators continues to rise. In North America alone, this need exceeds 128,000 pilots, creating exceptional opportunities for those entering the industry.

The global aviation market is expanding rapidly as record numbers of passengers take to the skies and airlines grow their fleets to meet increasing travel demand.

Air India has placed one of the largest aircraft orders in aviation history—470 new Boeing and Airbus aircraft, including 400 short-haul planes, 70 long-haul planes, and an additional 370 on option.

IndiGo Airlines, India’s major low-cost carrier, has surpassed this with a record-breaking order for 500 Airbus A320 family aircraft, setting a new global milestone.

Together, these airlines alone will require over 10,000 new pilots in the coming years, reflecting the strong competition for qualified aviators and the bright outlook for the aviation sector.

Why Train With OCFC?

  • Experienced, highly trained flight instructors
  • A strong commitment to flight safety and excellence
  • Personalized support throughout your training
  • Training locations in California, Oklahoma, and more
  • Opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes of the United States while you train

Your aviation journey begins the moment you arrive. OCFC is here to guide you every step of the way, helping you become a confident, capable professional pilot.

Your Training Journey in the United States

Orange County Flight Center (OCFC) is an FAA Part 141–approved flight school, established in 1981 at John Wayne Airport in Southern California. As one of the oldest and most respected flight schools in California, OCFC is committed to preparing pilots for successful global aviation careers. With over 180 new training centers planned worldwide, our network continues to grow.

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Insurance

Duration: Full-Time • 8–10 Months

Steps to Becoming an Airline Pilot

I. Basic Requirements to Become an Airline Pilot in the United States

1. No College Degree Required

Major U.S. airlines and regional carriers do not require a college degree at this time.

  • 18 years old to begin flying as a commercial pilot
  • 21 years old to fly as an airline pilot

You must have 20/20 vision (corrective lenses allowed) and pass a First-Class Medical Exam conducted by an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

All aspiring airline pilots must qualify for and obtain a Commercial Pilot License.

To earn your Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate, you must accumulate 1,500 hours of flight time—most students achieve this by working as flight instructors.

Applicants must have a clean record and no felony convictions.

You must be able to speak, read, write, and understand English to FAA standards.

II. Qualifying to Become an Airline Pilot

Training Under FAA Part 141

All foreign students at OCFC train under an FAA-approved Part 141 syllabus that meets all curriculum requirements outlined in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations. This approved syllabus is strictly followed for every program and certification.

Step 1: Earn Your Private Pilot Certificate

Your journey begins with ground school and flight training in a single-engine aircraft. This phase builds the essential skills and knowledge needed for all advanced training.

Ground School
  • 36 hours of in-person classroom instruction
  • Access to online/web-based training
  • Prepares you for the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Exam (14 CFR 61.103)
Flight Training
  • 55 hours Dual Flight
  • 10 hours Solo Flight
  • 36 hours Ground Instruction

After becoming a Private Pilot, the next step is earning your Instrument Rating, which qualifies you to fly in a wider range of weather conditions under IFR.

Requirements
  • Private Pilot Certificate
  • Class II Medical Certificate
  • Demonstrate required aeronautical knowledge and skills
Training Includes
  • 25.3 hours Dual Flight
  • 21 hours Ground & Simulator Training

This certification allows you to be legally paid to fly and brings your skills to a professional level.

Requirements
  • Private Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Rating
  • Class II Medical Certificate
Training Includes
  • 57.5 hours Dual Flight
  • 62.5 hours Solo Flight
  • 35 hours Ground Training
  • 21 hours Simulator Training

This rating prepares you to fly larger multi-engine aircraft used by airlines, charter companies, and cargo operators.

Requirements
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • Class II Medical Certificate
  • Demonstrate required skills through written and flight tests
Training Includes
  • 22 hours Dual Multi-Engine Flight
  • 15 hours Ground Training

Becoming a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) allows pilots to:

  • Gain valuable flight experience
  • Build hours toward the 1,500-hour ATP requirement
  • Earn income while flying (U.S. citizens only)
Important Note for Foreign Students

Due to M-1 visa restrictions, foreign students may:

  • Complete the CFI program for experience
  • Not work or be paid as flight instructors in the United States
  • Use their training and flight hours toward aviation careers in their home country

Enrollment for foreign students in the CFI program is discretionary, and OCFC has final authority regarding acceptance.

Future Opportunities with OCFC India & OCFC Global

As OCFC India and OCFC Global prepare to launch flight training centers across multiple countries—including India—over the next decade, students trained at OCFC in the United States may have the opportunity to be gainfully employed at OCFC locations abroad.
 Employment eligibility will always depend on local laws, government regulations, and licensing requirements within each country.

This expansion provides international students with potential pathways to build careers in their home country or at OCFC centers worldwide, once established.

Flight Instructor Certificate (CFI) Training

Students enrolled in the Flight Instructor Program receive the advanced knowledge, instructional skills, and aeronautical experience required to meet FAA Flight Instructor Certification standards under OCFC’s Part 141 approved syllabus (Title 14 CFR, Appendix F).

Program Requirements

To qualify for the Flight Instructor Certificate, students must:

  • Demonstrate required knowledge, teaching ability, and flight proficiency through FAA written and practical tests
  • Hold a Class II Medical Certificate
  • Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating
  • 21 hours Dual Flight Training
  • 63 hours Ground Instruction, Pre-Flight & Post-Flight Briefings
This program prepares future instructors to teach safely, effectively, and to FAA standards—while building the professional experience necessary for long-term aviation careers.

Shared Student Accommodation

OCFC offers luxury 1- and 2-bedroom apartments near the airport for enrolled students.

  • 2-bedroom unit: typically 5 students
  • 1-bedroom unit: typically 4 students
  • Students may request private rooms or apartments at additional cost.

Rent ranges from $800 to $1,650 per month, depending on privacy and accommodations.
Utilities, internet, and other monthly services are not included and vary by usage.

Training Aircraft

OCFC uses Cessna 172 N, M, SP and similar analog (six-pack) aircraft for all Private and Commercial training.Students who wish to train in G1000 or other glass-cockpit aircraft may do so only with written approval from OCFC and must pay the hourly cost difference for those aircraft.

Additional Training Hours & Costs

Training hours listed in OCFC programs (PPL–CPL) are based on the national average, and exceed FAA minimums under Part 141.Students who follow the syllabus should complete their program within these hours.

Any additional aircraft or dual-instruction hours beyond the approved syllabus will require extra fees, charged at the hourly rates listed in the Aircraft Rental & Training Agreement and updated on the OCFC website.

How to Enroll at OCFC

A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for International Students

STEP 1
Check If You Qualify

You are eligible to apply if ALL the following are true:

  • You are 17 years or older
  • You have a High School Diploma or Secondary School Certificate
  • You can read, write, speak, and understand English
  • You have a valid passport (valid for at least 6+ months)
  • You can provide proof of financial ability (bank statement or loan approval) to cover training, living expenses, and accommodation in the U.S.

Attach the following documents:

  • Copy of your valid passport
  • Copy of your high school certificate/graduation
  • Bank statement or loan approval showing proof of funds

Submit your application via one of the following options:

Option A — Through Your Enrollment Agent in India
(Addresses will be provided through email or on this website)

Option B — Email
Send your application (PDF format) to:
Niki-A@ocfc.com

Option C — Mail
Orange County Flight Center
John Wayne Airport Campus
19531 Campus Drive, Suite 4
Santa Ana, California 92707, USA

Once we receive your complete application:

  • Our Designated School Official (DSO) will verify your eligibility.
  • You will be scheduled for an interview either: In person in India (when OCFC directors/agents visit), or Via WhatsApp interview.

If you are approved:

You will receive via email:

  • Your Official Letter of Acceptance
  • Your Form I-20, signed by our SEVIS-authorized school official

After receiving your Form I-20:

  • 1. Visit fmjfee.com
  • 2. Pay your SEVIS I-901 fee
  • 3. Ensure all information matches exactly what appears on your I-20
For updated fee information, visit: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/paying-the-i-901-sevis-fee

Schedule your visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy.

You will need to complete:

  • DS-156
  • DS-158
  • Sometimes DS-157 (if required)

Bring:

  • Your passport (valid 6+ months beyond entry date)
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Your Form I-20
  • SEVIS payment receipt

After the interview, you will be notified immediately if your M-1 Visa is approved.

Once you receive your U.S. Visa:

  • Email Niki-A@ocfc.com with your intended arrival date
  • Pay the necessary fees (lump sum or installments)
  • OCFC will arrange your housing and prepare for your arrival
  • You may begin training on the first day of any month

Fly to:

  • Airport pickup is available for students who opt for our concierge service.
  • Transport you to your furnished apartment

Concierge airport pickup is offered for a $150 service fee.

How to Enroll at OCFC

A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for International Students

STEP 1
Check If You Qualify

You are eligible to apply if ALL the following are true:

  • You are 17 years or older
  • You have a High School Diploma or Secondary School Certificate
  • You can read, write, speak, and understand English
  • You have a valid passport (valid for at least 6+ months)
  • You can provide proof of financial ability (bank statement or loan approval) to cover training, living expenses, and accommodation in the U.S.

Attach the following documents:

  • Copy of your valid passport
  • Copy of your high school certificate/graduation
  • Bank statement or loan approval showing proof of funds

Submit your application via one of the following options:

Option A — Through Your Enrollment Agent in India
(Addresses will be provided through email or on this website)

Option B — Email
Send your application (PDF format) to:
Niki-A@ocfc.com

Option C — Mail
Orange County Flight Center
John Wayne Airport Campus
19531 Campus Drive, Suite 4
Santa Ana, California 92707, USA

Once we receive your complete application:

  • Our Designated School Official (DSO) will verify your eligibility.
  • You will be scheduled for an interview either: In person in India (when OCFC directors/agents visit), or Via WhatsApp interview.

If you are approved:

You will receive via email:

  • Your Official Letter of Acceptance
  • Your Form I-20, signed by our SEVIS-authorized school official

After receiving your Form I-20:

  • 1. Visit fmjfee.com
  • 2. Pay your SEVIS I-901 fee
  • 3. Ensure all information matches exactly what appears on your I-20

For updated fee information, visit:
https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/paying-the-i-901-sevis-fee

Schedule your visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy.

You will need to complete:

  • DS-156
  • DS-158
  • Sometimes DS-157 (if required)

Bring:

  • Your passport (valid 6+ months beyond entry date)
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Your Form I-20
  • SEVIS payment receipt

After the interview, you will be notified immediately if your M-1 Visa is approved.

LUMPSUM PAYMENT (Paid in Full at Enrollment)

INSTALLMENT PLAN

PAY-AS-YOU-GO PLAN

NON-TUITION THIRD-PARTY EXPENSES (Not Included in Any Plan)

PAYMENT OF FEES/WIRE TRANSFER INFORMATION

Once you receive your U.S. Visa:

  • Email Niki-A@ocfc.com with your intended arrival date
  • Pay the necessary fees (lump sum or installments)
  • OCFC will arrange your housing and prepare for your arrival
  • You may begin training on the first day of any month

Fly to:

  • Airport pickup is available for students who opt for our concierge service.
  • Transport you to your furnished apartment

Concierge airport pickup is offered for a $150 service fee.

Useful Government Resources for International Students

Access official U.S. government information related to student visas, SEVP, and training requirements:

SEVP Regulations for Students & Schools

Official rules for schools and international students

Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)

General information about SEVIS and visa requirements

Full Course of Study Requirements

Learn what qualifies as a full course of study in the U.S.

Students & Employment

USCIS guidance on work authorization for non-immigrant students

Foreign Academic Students (I-9 Guidance)

Employment eligibility & documentation for academic students

International Student Admission Application

Required Documents (Attach with Application)

  • Copy of passport (all pages + visas if applicable)
  • High School Diploma/Certificate or College Degree + transcripts
  • Recent bank statement or loan approval showing financial ability
  • Proof of English proficiency (if available)

Submit Your Application


AIRLINE PILOT TRAINING PROGRAM (8–10 Months Full-Time)

Fees & Payment Options (With / Without Shared Accommodation)

LUMPSUM PAYMENT (Paid in Full at Enrollment)

INSTALLMENT PLAN

PAY-AS-YOU-GO PLAN

NON-TUITION THIRD-PARTY EXPENSES (Not Included in Any Plan)

PAYMENT OF FEES/WIRE TRANSFER INFORMATION