19-Year-Old Shivani Goyal Becomes IndiGo Pilot, Inspires Young India
New Delhi/Bokaro: Shivani Goyal from the small town of Fusro (Bermo) in Jharkhand’s Bokaro district has become a symbol of inspiration for the entire country. By obtaining a Commercial Pilot License at the age of just 19 years, she proved that dreams are not limited by age or place.
Daughter of Surendra Goyal and Anuradha Goyal, Shivani is currently flying with IndiGo Airlines as a Junior First Officer (A320).
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Journey from Childhood Dreams to the Skies
Shivani was born into a simple family. From her school days, she felt drawn toward the sky. She completed her Class 10 education from Carmel School, Kargali, and Class 12 from Central Academy, Ranchi.
While people around her discussed traditional career paths like engineering and medicine, Shivani dreamed of flying.
Her family fully supported her dream. In 2022, she began pilot training at Alpha Aviation Group (NFTT) in Gondia, Maharashtra. Despite a new city, different culture, intense hard work and financial challenges, she never gave up.
Challenges and Success
Pilot training is not easy. It includes theory classes, simulator training, day and night flying sessions, weather challenges and physical fitness evaluations.
Shivani completed the entire course in just 19 months, whereas it generally takes between 18 to 24 months. She achieved 200 hours of flying experience and earned her Commercial Pilot License.
When she returned to Fusro as a pilot, the entire town celebrated her achievement. The Akhil Bharatiya Agrawal Kalyan Mahasabha, Bermo MLA and local organizations welcomed her grandly with bouquets, sweets and honors.
That day, Shivani became a major inspiration for small-town India.
Current Role
Today, Shivani is working with IndiGo as a Junior First Officer on the A320 aircraft.
On her Instagram handle @ishivanigoyal, people can see glimpses of her uniform, cockpit moments, base checks and international flights.
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India’s Rising Number of Women Pilots
Shivani’s success is not an isolated story. India currently ranks number one globally in the percentage of women pilots.
According to DGCA, approximately 15% of commercial pilots in India are women, while the global average is only 5-6%.
By 2025, around 3,327 active women pilots are working in India, reflecting nearly 90% growth in the last four years.
- IndiGo: 17.5% women pilots (more than 1000)
- Air India: 16% women pilots
A Journey That Began in 1936
This inspiring journey began with Sarla Thakral, who became India’s first female pilot in 1936 at the age of just 21 by flying a Gypsy Moth aircraft while wearing a saree.
After her, pioneers like Prem Mathur, Durba Banerjee, Avani Chaturvedi and Shivangi Singh created new milestones in Indian aviation.
Shivani Goyal is now the newest link in this inspirational legacy.
How to Become a Pilot in India? (Step-by-Step Guide 2026)
- Educational Qualification:
Complete Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics as mandatory subjects. - DGCA Medical Examination:
First complete the Class 2 Medical from a DGCA-authorized doctor, followed by the Class 1 Medical. - DGCA Computer Number:
Register on the DGCA portal and obtain your DGCA Computer Number. - Select a Training School:
Take admission in a DGCA-approved flying school in India or abroad, such as Alpha Aviation Group or Flytech Aviation. - Theory Exams:
Clear DGCA examinations including Air Navigation, Meteorology, Air Regulations and Technical General. - Flying Training:
Progress through SPL (Student Pilot License), PPL (Private Pilot License) and CPL (Commercial Pilot License). A total of 200 flying hours is mandatory. - License and Job:
After obtaining the CPL, complete Type Rating and apply to airlines.
Estimated Cost: The complete course may cost between ₹45 lakh to ₹70 lakh. Scholarships and education loan options are also available.
Shivani’s Message for Youth
Shivani says:
“Before taking flight in the sky, you must first take flight in your mind. Leave fear behind and move forward.”
Her story teaches that hard work, family support and unshakable belief can help achieve any goal.
Conclusion
Shivani Goyal is not only a successful pilot but also a living inspiration for millions of girls.
Her achievement has proven that any girl coming from a small town can touch the heights of the sky. The number of women pilots in India is increasing rapidly and this movement is expected to become even stronger in the coming years.
If you also dream of becoming a pilot, start today—because every great flight begins with a small step.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Shivani Goyal?
Shivani Goyal is a young commercial pilot from Fusro, Bokaro, Jharkhand, who became an IndiGo Junior First Officer at the age of 19.
At what age did Shivani Goyal become a pilot?
She obtained her Commercial Pilot License and became a pilot at just 19 years of age.
Which airline does Shivani Goyal work for?
She currently works for IndiGo Airlines as a Junior First Officer (A320).
Where did Shivani Goyal complete her pilot training?
She completed her pilot training at Alpha Aviation Group (NFTT) in Gondia, Maharashtra.
How many flying hours are required for a Commercial Pilot License in India?
DGCA requires a minimum of 200 flying hours for obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
What is the cost of pilot training in India?
The complete training course may cost approximately ₹45 lakh to ₹70 lakh depending on the institute and type rating.
Can girls from small towns become pilots in India?
Yes. Shivani Goyal’s story proves that girls from small towns can achieve success in aviation with dedication, training and family support.
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