This guide will tell you everything you need to know about becoming an Aeronautical Engineer in India.
What is an Aeronautical Engineer?
Aeronautical Engineers design, develop, and build safe and fuel-efficient flying machines. This includes airplanes, helicopters, satellites, missiles, drones, spacecraft, and more! They also play a crucial role in ensuring these machines are airworthy through regular inspections and clearances.
Are you a good fit?
- Do you enjoy building things and figuring out how they work?
- Are you detail-oriented and like to keep things organized?
- Do you enjoy problem-solving and have a knack for analyzing situations?
- Are you interested in drawing and technical illustrations?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then Aeronautical Engineering might be your dream career!
How much does it cost?
The cost of an Aeronautical Engineering program can vary depending on the institute you choose. Expect to pay somewhere between ₹6,000 and ₹1,33,333 per year.
Also Read: Become a Blockchain Developer in India!
How can I afford it?
There are several ways to finance your education:
- Scholarships: Several options exist, including those based on merit and financial need. You can explore the National Scholarship Portal (https://scholarships.gov.in/), institute-specific scholarships, and resources like Buddy4study ([https://www.buddy4study.com/]).
- Loans: VidyaLakshmi (https://www.vidyalakshmi.co.in/) can help you find education loans from various banks. Some states offer student credit cards with low interest rates.
What education do I need?
- Complete 10+2 in Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, Maths)
- Earn a Bachelor’s degree (B.Tech/B.E.) in Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering
Entrance exams: You’ll need to qualify for national entrance exams like JEE Main, JEE Advanced, or AME CET for admission to most programs.
Where will you work?
Aeronautical Engineers can find opportunities in:
- Indian Air Force
- Defence Ministry
- Airlines industry
- Aviation companies
- Research agencies
Work environment: Expect a full-time job with potential for extended hours. You might work in offices or at facilities where aircraft and equipment are designed, manufactured, assembled, or tested. This field is also open to differently-abled individuals.
How much can I earn?
The average salary of an Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineer in India ranges from ₹18,750 to ₹1,51,250 per month. This figure can vary depending on your experience, skills, and employer.
Where will you study?
This program is typically offered by the Department of Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering. Here’s a list to get you started (this is not exhaustive):
- Government Institutes:
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Kanpur, Madras
- Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) Thiruvananthapuram
- College of Engineering, Chennai
- Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU), Hyderabad
- Many more!
- Private Institutes (Please verify affiliation and accreditation):
- MIT Manipal
- Dayananda Sagar College of Engineering, Bangalore
- Several other options available
Find institute rankings at https://www.nirfindia.org/.
Additional Resources:
- Online Courses: NPTEL Swayam offers free video courses ([https://onlinecourses.nptel.ac.in/ noc19_ae05/preview](https://onlinecourses.nptel.ac.in/ noc19_ae05/preview))
- Search Keywords: Aeronautical engineer, aerospace engineer, aeronautics
Inspired by the Best:
Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian-born woman in space, is a role model for aspiring Aeronautical Engineers.