‘I wanted to fly’

From a young boy in Apeejay School, Saket, to now donning the uniform of a Senior Captain at IndiGo Airlines, Mohit Misri has always had his head in the clouds—and his feet firmly on the ground. A commercial pilot who flies across India on a demanding schedule, he talks about what it takes to soar high in the aviation industry, the right academic path for students, and why physical fitness is as important as technical skill in his line of work. Read edited excerpts:

Mohit, what inspired you to become a pilot?

Honestly, I just wanted to fly. It’s a powerful, inspiring profession. I love the lifestyle, the thrill of flying planes, and the responsibility that comes with it. I made the decision in Class 11 and chose Science and Maths to pursue it seriously.

What are the key skills someone in your profession must have?

Reflexes, definitely. You have to respond instantly in dynamic situations. And most importantly—remaining calm under pressure. Whether it’s unexpected weather or operational delays, composure is everything.

Walk us through the steps a student must take to become a pilot.

First, study science and maths till Class 12 with at least 70% marks. That’s the minimum required by flying schools. Then, apply to a DGCA-approved aviation academy—either in India or abroad. When I started in 2007-08, India lacked infrastructure, so I went abroad. But now, India has many good options too.

What does your typical workday look like?

There is no typical day! I fly five to six days a week—but not in the usual Monday to Friday pattern. Flights happen round-the-clock. For example, yesterday I flew from Bangalore to Guwahati, then to Dibrugarh and back. Today, I’ll go from Guwahati to Bangalore, then Pune, and finally end in Chennai. It’s hectic—but rewarding.

What are your next goals as a pilot?

In aviation, you always keep moving forward—whether it’s flying newer aircraft, mentoring junior pilots, or training. I see myself still in the cockpit five years from now, continuing to grow in this profession.

What role did Apeejay Saket play in laying your foundation?

Well the foundation was laid there. The discipline, the friendships, the early exposure to activities—it helped shape my personality. The culture of excellence stayed with me long after I left.

What’s your advice for students who want to follow your path?

Start early. Stay physically fit. Aviation requires annual medicals—your health literally affects your career. Eat well, exercise daily, and have a strong academic focus. And most importantly—stay calm and focused, always.