Aeronautical Engineering Course

Aeronautical engineering course is perfect for candidates interested in designing, developing, researching, constructing, maintaining, or renovating flying objects like spacecraft and aircraft. Those who are interested in this field can enrol themselves in diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD courses. Online courses are also available in this field. Aeronautical engineering covers the study of aerodynamic elements of aircraft. 

The aeronautical engineering syllabus and subjects include aerodynamics, thermodynamics, aircraft maintenance, etc. Students of this course can learn to design and maintain helicopters, aeroplanes, jet machines, military aircraft, jet machines, and satellites. The aeronautical engineering course duration is 3 years for a diploma course, 4 years for an undergraduate course (BTech Aeronautical Engineering), 2 years for PG (MTech Aeronautical Engineering), and 3-6 years for a PhD. 

Interested candidates should check out if they are eligible for the aeronautical engineering courses after 12th. The eligibility requirements involve clearing Class 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as compulsory subjects and a minimum of 60% aggregate. They must also check the entrance exams accepted by universities and institutions for admission. The aeronautical engineering entrance exams for admission include AME CET, JEE Advanced, JEE Main, GATE, LPUNEST, etc.

While the fees for this course range from INR 5-10 lakhs, the aeronautical engineering salary starts from INR 6 Lakhs per annum and goes up with experience. Additionally, there’s a rising demand for aircraft and aircraft engineers in and around India. Thus, the return on investment and future prospects of this course are good. On this page, aspiring candidates can find all the details they need to pursue an aeronautical engineering course.

1. JEE Main 2025 exam schedule will be out soon. Stay up-to-date with the dates on the JEE Main 2025 exam page.
2. AME CET is a national-level exam for aircraft engineering and maintenance and exam registrations have begun already. The last registration date is March 31, 2025, and the exam can tentatively happen in the third week of May 2025. Candidates can get the latest updates on the exam at AME CET Exam 2025.
3. JEE Advanced 2025 registrations might commence in April 2025. The exam may happen in May 2025 and the latest updates for it can be found at JEE Advanced 2025.
4. The GUJCET exam is scheduled for March 23, 2025. Students can find all the information about it at GUJCET 2025.
5. KCET might be conducted in the second week of April 2025. Candidates should check the KCET 2025 page to know the exact dates, 
6. MHT CET PCB exam will tentatively take place in April 2025 and PCM in May 2025. You need to check MHT CET 2025 for the exact dates.

Aeronautical engineering is a specialised field of engineering and scientific research concerned with designing, manufacturing, and maintaining various aircraft and their components. This course is an ideal study option for those interested in aeroplanes and their mechanisms.

For all the latest details regarding the different aeronautical engineering courses that are available in India, eligibility criteria, aeronautical engineering subjects, top recruiters, average salary, etc.,  the candidates must go through the table below-

Also Check: Top Aeronautical Engineering colleges in India

FAQs

Q1. Can women pursue aeronautical engineering?

Yes, regardless of their gender, students who excel at PCM and have a passion for aircraft mechanisms can pursue aeronautical engineering without hesitation.

Q2. Can an aeronautical engineer fly a plane?

No, aeronautical engineers can't fly a plane although they make significant contributions to the area of aviation with the manufacturing, repairing, and maintenance of aeroplanes. 

Q3. What do we study in aeronautical engineering?

Aeronautical Engineering is the science that studies, designs, and manufactures flight-capable machinery, as well as the procedures for operating aeroplanes. Aeronautical engineering teaches how to design, build, analyse, and test commercial or military aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft.

If you’re wondering what are the benefits of aeronautical engineering and its scope, the rapidly expanding aviation industry in India is the reason. India is now the third-largest market for civil aviation in the world, with the potential to overtake China. With 'n' career possibilities in both the public and commercial sectors in India, the need for aeronautical engineers is growing daily.

Aeronautics is a booming business, especially in sectors like commercial travel and military industries. Aeronautical engineers are being hired by military contractors to assist in the development of specialised military aircraft.

Also Read: How Good is an Aeronautical Engineering Career?

What Is The Scope Of The Aeronautical Engineering Course?

The following are the major reasons that make aeronautical engineering a prospective career option for now and for future. 

Growing Aero Sector

With the advancement of technology around the world, the work sectors of aeronautical engineers are expanding. The trained candidates are generally required by all government and private aviation companies, as well as aircraft and spacecraft manufacturing and testing units

Increase in Employment Opportunities

According to a recent estimate, the employment of aerospace engineers is predicted to increase by 6% between 2016 and 2026 therefore, the job opportunities will rise. Passenger traffic in emerging nations such as India is now expanding at a pace of more than 15% per year, resulting in the construction of new airplanes to meet the needs of flying firms, and providing work opportunities for aeronautical engineers. Aeronautics and aerospace provide many job opportunities in research, design, and vocations directly related to the operation and maintenance of aircraft

Create a Better Environment

Aircraft are being redesigned to reduce noise pollution and improve fuel efficiency, which will necessitate additional research and development which is bringing a plethora of career opportunities for aeronautical engineers.

Earn Good Money

In India, the starting salary of an aeronautical engineer is INR 500,000 on average, and it escalates to INR 10,00,000 - INR 12,00,000 on average or even more depending upon your skills and experience. Aeronautical engineers are employed by nations including the US, UK, France, and Germany. There are also many Indian aeronautical engineers working for NASA.

Travelling Opportunites

 As an aeronautical engineer, you may be able to travel around the world without having to pay for it because your firm will. 

Who Can Pursue Aeronautical Engineering Course?

Individuals who have passed class 12th with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics), become eligible to pursue Aeronautical Engineering courses. Some institutions may also consider candidates with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) but this is less common.

• Persons with a strong liking for science and mathematics, specifically physics, are very important.
• An enthusiasm for aviation and aircraft accompanied with the curiosity to know how they operate is necessary for staying motivated and achieving success in this course.
• This field will be appealing to those who are analytical and skilled at solving problems.
• While there isn't a specific age limit, most candidates begin this program between the ages of 17 and 20.
• Candidates having commendable spatial reasoning and visualization abilities will do well in comprehending aircraft designs. 

In short, anyone with the necessary academic qualifications, a passion for aeronautics, and strong analytical skills can join Aeronautical Engineering colleges in India.

Also Read: Is it worth doing Aeronautical Engineering?

What is the Difference Between Aeronautical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering?

Many candidates get confused between Aeronautical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering. Aeronautical Engineering involves designing aeroplanes, helicopters, and aircraft. Whereas Aerospace Engineering focuses on building both spacecraft and aircraft. There is a major difference between these two engineering programs and to get a clear idea go through the table given below. 

FAQs

Q1. What is the difference between aerospace and aeronautical engineering?

Aerospace engineering is the study of all spacecraft used within and outside of the earth's atmosphere, whereas aeronautical engineering is the study of aeroplanes that operate inside the earth's atmosphere. It focuses on developing both aircraft and spacecraft.

Q2. What do aeronautical engineers do?

Engineers who work with aircraft are known as aeronautical engineers. They are largely involved in the design of aircraft and propulsion systems, as well as the research of aircraft and construction materials' aerodynamic performance. They study the science, technology, and practice of flight within the atmosphere of the Earth.

Q3. Does NASA hire aeronautical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires aeronautical engineers who are well-qualified and trained.

The main purpose of aerospace engineering is to develop technologies that are useful in aviation, spacecraft, and defence systems. Thus, these engineers study aerodynamic fluid flow, propulsion, instrumentation and communication, guidance, navigation, control, etc. Therefore, the branches of aeronautical engineering are divided into the following specialisations:

1. Aircraft Design and Development
2. Robotics
3. Aircraft Propulsion
4. Aerodynamics
5. Ground Vehicle Systems
6. Avionics
7. Materials and Structures
8. Aircraft Transportation Systems
9. Flight Mechanics, Navigating, Guidance, and Control Systems
10. Aircraft Systems Engineering
11. Rotorcraft Engineering
12. Fluid Dynamics
13. Spacecraft Engineering
14. Aerospace Research and Development
15. Communication Instrumentation
16. Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or Drone Technology
17. Human Factors and Safety Engineering
18. Electronic Systems
19. Air Traffic Management
20. Environmental Engineering
21. Flight Simulation and Training 

Aeronautical Engineering Bachelors Courses 

The list of popular aeronautical engineering courses after 12th and their duration for candidates are:

Aeronautical Engineering Courses Under PG

The postgraduate aeronautical engineering course duration is provided below:

Aeronautical Engineering Courses At Doctorate Level

Candidates after completing a master's in Aeronautical Engineering can also opt to do the following doctorate courses:

Apart from the aforementioned Aeronautical Engineering courses programs, candidates can also opt to pursue dual and joint bachelor, master, and Ph.D. degree combinations. Dual degrees, on the other hand, combine two or more disciplines, such as a BTech in engineering and management, and are offered in collaboration with multiple universities. Additional education options include an integrated Ph.D. and a Ph.D. after completing a BTech.

FAQs

Q1. Is Aeronautical Engineering hard to study?

Aeronautical engineering is a tough subject of study and career to pursue, but that should not deter you. First and foremost, an aeronautical engineer must have a thorough grasp of numerous fields of science, including engineering, technology, and physics.

Q2. In which sector do aeronautical engineers get jobs?

After completing the Aeronautical Engineering course/degree, a candidate can get a job in the aviation industry, defence industry, government as well as in private sectors.

Q3. Is there math in Aeronautical Engineering?

Aeronautical engineering relies heavily on mathematics so there is a maths in Aeronautical engineering. Math is at the heart of all these tasks, whether they be modelling forms, creating on a computer, testing stresses and strains, calculating fluid dynamics, or determining areas.
 

Candidates before applying for the Aeronautical Engineering course must make sure they fulfil all the factors of the eligibility criteria like educational qualification, minimum marks, entrance exams, etc. Candidates should make sure they fulfil the given Aeronautical Engineering Eligibility in India:

What Skills Are Required To Pursue The Aeronautical Engineering Course?

An aeronautical engineer must be well-versed with several skills. The skills that will make you the best aeronautical engineer are:

Analytical, Reasoning, And Problem-Solving Skills

The aeronautical engineering skills and responsibilities include high-level problem-solving, to drive fast and efficient conclusions while working on any aircraft. He should have strong reasoning ability skills to make quick decisions with positive outcomes. 

Technical Skills

Aeronautical graduates should have basic technical knowledge in their field. 

Aerodynamics

Propulsion Systems

Structural Analysis and Design

Materials Science

Control Systems

Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

Simulation and Testing

Thermodynamics

Instrumentation and Measurement

Graduates should be well versed in the technological subjects given here to get hired by any organisation.

Interpersonal skills

Engineers in this field should also have good interpersonal skills to get hired by any reputable company.

Teamwork and Collaboration

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving Abilities

Adaptability and Flexibility

Time Management

FAQs

Q1. Can I join the aeronautical engineering course after the 12th?

Yes, you can enrol in undergraduate or diploma courses related to aeronautical engineering after the 12th. For that, you must choose the science stream and physics, chemistry, and mathematics as compulsory subjects in Class 12. Also, you must score between 50- 55% in Class 12, then clear the entrance exams like CUET, AIEEA, JEE Main, JEE Advanced, etc., to get admission to the top institutes.

Q2. What is the qualification for aeronautical engineering?

To be eligible for the aeronautical engineering program applicant must have a class 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology or an equivalent as compulsory subjects. Students who have taken a different optional course in place of Chemistry are also eligible. For example, Computer Science in place of Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.

Q3. How many years is an aeronautical course?

The aeronautical engineering course duration varies for every course. The diploma of aeronautical engineering takes three years, undergraduate courses are for four years, postgraduate courses are for one to two years, and doctorate-level courses are for five to six years.

Getting admission to aeronautical engineering courses requires passing entrance exams that are conducted at the national, state, and university levels. Here is the list of entrance exam for aeronautical engineering after 12th along with their dates.

FAQs

Q1. Is NEET necessary for aeronautical engineering?

No, NEET is not necessary for aeronautical engineering. Entrance exams like JEE Main, JEE Advanced, GATE, etc are conducted for admission into an aeronautical engineering course.

Q2. What are the entrance exams for Aeronautical Engineering?

JEE Main, JEE Advanced, GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test for Engineering), IISAT (Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology Admission Test), IIAE (Indian Institute of Aeronautical Engineering Entrance Exam) are the entrance exam for Aeronautical Engineering courses. 

Q3. Is JEE necessary for Aeronautical Engineering?

Candidates must pass the JEE Main exam to be admitted to BTech in Aeronautical Engineering programs. Similarly, the JEE Advanced exam helps get admission to the top IITs, NIITs, and other famous institutes.

Aeronautical Engineering Admission is done via an entrance test. To get admission to the BTech Aeronautical Engineering course candidates should pass the Class 12 examination with a minimum of 60 to 75% percent marks with physics, chemistry, and mathematics as core subjects.  Follow the aeronautical engineering admission process given below

Step 1: Select the college to which you want to take admission.

If you are planning to study aeronautical engineering in India, then first you should shortlist some engineering colleges in which you want to take admission. Go through the admission prospectus of that college. Check how they admit students in aeronautical engineering courses.

Step 2: Sit for an Entrance Exam

If you are taking admission into IIT, IIIT, NITs, or GFTIs the gateway is the engineering entrance exam. JEE Main and JEE Advanced are the two most popular engineering exams conducted for aeronautical engineering admission. You should fill out the application form for these entrance exams and sit for the exam. After clearing these Aeronautical Engineering entrance exams and securing a rank, candidates become eligible for the bachelor's program. 

To keep track of important events of the aeronautical engineering entrance exam, click on the links given below. 

Step 3: Appear in Further Admission Rounds

After clearing the entrance exam, many exams conducting bodies conduct counselling and seat allotment based on which candidates are granted seats. In addition, certain colleges conduct group discussions and personal interviews to judge candidates' calibre after they clear the entrance exam. 

Also Read: BTech Admissions 

FAQs

Q1. What is the process of joining aeronautical engineering?

To join an aeronautical engineering course, it’s better to check the eligibility criteria first at the UG, PG, diploma, or PhD level. After fulfilling it, apply for the course, appear for any entrance exam if required, attend counselling and more at the preferred college, and secure your seat by paying the fee.

Q2. What is the aeronautical engineering course fees after the 12th?

The aeronautical engineering course fees after the 12th vary between INR 5- 10 Lakh. It depends on whether you choose diploma courses or undergraduate courses like BE and BTech and the institution. 

Q3. What is the top salary of an Aeronautical Engineer?

The aeronautical engineering salary in India is INR 5 LPA to INR 7 LPA for beginners and INR 10 LPA to INR 12 LPA or even more for an experienced person in the aerospace industry.

The aeronautical engineering course syllabus in India includes various core and elective subjects. Through these subjects, aspirants learn to manufacture and handle aircraft mechanisms. Along with regular exams, candidates must finish the project work and practical courses. The insights into the aeronautical engineering subjects are as follows:

FAQs

Q1. What subjects do I need to study in aeronautical engineering?

Materials Sciences, Fluid Dynamics, Structural Analysis, Aircraft Performance, Aircraft Structures, Solid Mechanics, etc are the aeronautical engineering subjects that you need to study if you pursue this course. 

Q2. What is the syllabus of the aeronautical engineering course?

The syllabus of the aeronautical engineering course includes materials sciences, mathematics, engineering physics, machining and precision manufacturing, atmospheric flight mechanics, air-breathing propulsion, solar thermal energy, etc. 

Q3. Is the aeronautical engineering course full of maths?

Yes, mathematics, physics, and chemistry are important subjects in the aeronautical engineering course. Students need to have a strong foundation and understanding of these subjects.

Here is the list of the best aeronautical engineering course colleges in India:

Top Government Aeronautical Engineering Course Colleges in India

Our team has shortlisted the top government Aeronautical Engineering colleges in India with the help of the NIRF ranking 2024 engineering.

Top Private Aeronautical Engineering Course Colleges in India

One can easily get into numerous private engineering colleges in India. Here, according to the NIRF rankings provided recently, we have furnished a list.

FAQs

Q1. Which are the top aeronautical engineering colleges in India?

Some of the top aeronautical engineering colleges in India where candidates can be admitted are IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, SRM University Chennai, Anna University, BITS Pilani, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amity University, Noida, etc.

Q2. Which are the top aeronautical engineering colleges abroad?

Some of the top aeronautical engineering colleges abroad are Stanford University, USA, Harvard University, USA, University of Oxford, UK. 

Q3. Which government colleges are ranked at the top for the aeronautical engineering course?

The top 5 government colleges for the aeronautical engineering course include:

1. IIT Madras
2. IIT Bombay 
3. IIT Kanpur
4. IIT Kharagpur
5. IIT Guwahati

The Aeronautical Engineering degree will provide you with several professional prospects in various industries that will help you grow and make a successful career. 

Jobs After Aeronautical Engineering Course 

Candidates can choose either of the Aeronautical Engineering job profiles:

Apart from these, the other aeronautical engineering career options are 

• Aerospace Medicine Expert
• Research Assistant
• Lecturer/Professor
• Aircraft Technician
• Aerodynamicist
• Technical Officer
• Structures and Materials Engineer
• Acoustic Experts
• Stress Analyst
• Aircrash Investigation Expert
• Quality Assurance Engineer
• Airworthiness Engineer

Salary After The Aeronautical Engineering Course

The scope of aeronautical engineering is rising day by day. Candidates get a lucrative salary after concluding the course.

Top Recruiters Of The Aeronautical Engineering Course Graduates

Candidates who have done aeronautical engineering are offered jobs in government as well as private companies. Some of the top recruiters who hire aeronautical engineers are:

Air India: The national carrier of India, owned by Air India Limited. It is a government-owned company that runs a fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft that serve several local and international destinations.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation, or DGCA as it is called, is an agency of the Ministry of Civil Aviation that controls civil aviation. It is responsible for the regulation of air transport services, the enforcement of civil aviation legislation, air safety, and airworthiness standards.

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL): A state-owned aerospace and defence business overseen by the Ministry of Defence, HAL is responsible for the design, production, development, repair, and overhaul of aeroplanes and helicopters. Its services also include engines and related equipment like avionics, instrumentation, and accessories.

Indian Air Force: The Indian Air Force is the Indian Armed Forces' air arm. Its complement of people and aircraft assets ranks fourth among the world's air forces. Its major role is to protect Indian airspace and perform aerial combat during times of war.

CSIR National Aeronautics Lab (NAL): The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) of India includes the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL). It creates aeronautical technology and designs for small and medium-sized civil aircraft.

Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE): The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) is a laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) that is responsible for the design and development of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, as well as Aeronautical Systems and technologies. These cutting-edge vehicles and equipment will be used by the Indian Armed Forces.

Ministry of Civil Aviation: The Ministry of Civil Aviation is a government agency. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, and the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Udan Academy are working under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The ministry also oversees affiliated Public Sector Undertakings such Airports Authority of India (AAI), National Aviation Company of India Ltd, and Pawan Hans Helicopters Limited. 

Private Airlines: Private airlines are privately owned by a person or group of individuals in partnership.

Courses After Aeronautical Engineering Course

Candidates after finishing BTech aeronautical engineering course have various career pathways to choose from. Following are the options to choose from after studying aeronautical engineering. 

Pursue a Master’s Degree

After studying BTech aeronautical engineering degree, candidates can go for higher education and pursue an MTech in aeronautical engineering or a PhD. Higher education can give more in-depth information, research possibilities, and pathways to higher careers in academia or R&D.

Start Working Professionally

After finishing the aeronautical engineering course, you can start working immediately. Many recruiters offer jobs to B Tech aeronautical engineering graduates. You can work in the Air Force, Army, NASA, ISRO, or even in private airline companies. 

Join Defence Sector

If you have a passion do something for the nation but you believe that by pursuing an engineering degree you won’t contribute to that, you are wrong. You can work in the defence sector and contribute to national safety by designing and developing military aircraft, drones, or missile systems. This industry provides difficult and high-tech projects with an emphasis on national security.

Join Space Industry

If you are interested in being part of space crafts and exploring space, then you can join the space industry after studying aeronautical engineering and working in NASA and ISRO. Though cracking a job in NASA and ISRO is tough, you can get it if you are qualified and skilled. You may work on satellite design and manufacture, space exploration missions, or spacecraft and launch vehicle development.

Start Your Own Business and Be an Entrepreneur

Starting your aerospace-related firm or joining a startup in the sector might be an exciting choice if you love innovation and want to bring your ideas to life. However, it demands significant funding.

FAQs

Q1. What is the highest salary of an aeronautical engineer?

The aeronautical engineering salary in India for an experienced person is around INR 10 LPA to INR 12 LPA on average.

Q2. Which are the top aeronautical engineering recruiters?

Some of the top aeronautical engineering recruiters are the Civil Aviation Department, HAL, Air India, and Defense Research and Development Laboratories.

Q3. What jobs can I get with an aeronautical engineering degree?

Aeronautical engineers can work in government organizations as racing car designers, flight mechanics engineers, graduate engineer trainees, assistant aircraft engineers, aircraft production engineers, assistant technical officers and air safety officers, and space scientists.