What is aeronautical engineering?
Aeronautical engineering is the study of how aircraft are researched, designed, built, tested and manufactured. It covers aerodynamics, including lift, drag, airfoils and control surfaces, as well as aircraft structures, propulsion and systems.
The course
Aeronautical engineering is a branch of aerospace engineering. The B.E. / B.Tech is a 4-year degree with 8 semesters that combines theory with practical knowledge of aircraft design, manufacturing and testing.
Eligibility
- 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, with at least 50% marks for General category and 45% for SC, ST and OBC candidates, or
- An AICTE-approved 3-year engineering diploma.
Admission
- Check that you meet the eligibility.
- Fill the AMERAT registration form.
- Take AMERAT. The paper is objective and available in Hindi and English. See the exam pattern.
- On the basis of your AMERAT rank, attend counselling and confirm admission in an AICTE-approved institute.
Fees
Fees vary between universities and states, approximately ₹4 to 6 lakh for the full course, paid semester-wise. Education loans are available through banks. Fees for NRI students are higher.
Career scope
India's aviation sector is growing and moving into aircraft and parts manufacturing, which increases demand for aeronautical engineers in India and abroad. Graduates usually join as trainee or junior engineers and move up based on performance.
Work profile
- Direct and coordinate the design, manufacturing and testing of aircraft.
- Check whether project proposals are technically and financially feasible.
- Make sure designs meet engineering principles, environmental rules and customer requirements.
- Set quality standards, design methods and delivery timelines.
- Find the cause of product problems and develop solutions.
Compare the programmes
| Programme | You get | Duration / path | Career focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) | DGCA licence (CAR-66) | Basic training under CAR-147, then practical experience at a CAR-145 organisation | Maintain and certify aircraft as fit to fly |
| B.Tech Aeronautical Engineering This page | B.Tech degree (AICTE approved) | 4 years, 8 semesters | Design, manufacturing, testing and research |
| Dual programme: AME + B.Tech | Degree and AME training together | Combined programme | Both design and maintenance careers |
| Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) | DGCA licence | 4 months ground school + 8 to 12 months flying (200 hours) | Fly commercial aircraft |
AME, B.Tech and the dual programme need 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (or an equivalent diploma); pilot training needs Physics and Mathematics. Admission to all of them is through AMERAT.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the course?
What is the eligibility?
What is the fee?
Is AME the same as aeronautical engineering?
Ready to start your aviation career?
Register for AMERAT 2027 and take the first step.
