🛠️ What Is Difference Between DGCA CAR-66 B2 and B2L License (2024 Updated)
With the introduction of CAR-66 Issue III, Revision 0 in 2024, DGCA has aligned India’s aircraft maintenance licensing with EASA standards. One of the major updates is the inclusion of a new license category: B2L. In this article, we compare the B2 vs B2L license to help you choose the right path in your aviation career.
📘 What Is a B2 License?
B2 is the traditional Avionics license under CAR-66. It authorizes the holder to certify and maintain:
- Electrical systems
- Instrument systems
- Radio/navigation/communication systems
- Automatic flight control and aircraft integrated systems
B2 is valid for complex aircraft and all commercial jets/helicopters.
🆕 What Is a B2L License?
B2L is a new license introduced in 2024. It is designed for avionics maintenance on light aircraft, such as small GA (General Aviation) airplanes or trainers. It offers a modular and faster path to certification, but with limited scope.
What systems can a B2 license cover vs a B2L license?
B2: Authorizes maintenance and certification of all avionics and electrical systems—including instruments, comms, navigation, auto-flight, surveillance, and powerplant-related electrical tasks .
B2L: Limited to specific systems endorsed on the license (e.g., comms/navigation, instruments, auto-flight, surveillance, airframe systems) and only those listed .
📊 Comparison Table: B2 vs B2L
| Feature | B2 License | B2L License |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | All avionics systems | Limited avionics systems |
| Aircraft Types | All categories, including complex commercial aircraft | Light aircraft (e.g., trainers, small GA) |
| Modules Required | All 17+ modules under CAR-66 B2 | Selected modules only (less than B2) |
| Training Time | 2–3 years minimum | 1–1.5 years possible |
| Type Training | Mandatory for certification | May not require type training (for simple aircraft) |
| Cost | Higher (more exams & training) | Lower (fewer modules & simpler training) |
| Career Path | Full AME in airlines, MROs, OEMs | Avionics maintenance in small aircraft, GA, or flying clubs |
| Upgrade Option | Not needed | Can be upgraded to full B2 later |
🎯 Who Should Choose B2L?
Choose B2L if you:
- Want a faster entry into aviation maintenance
- Are targeting small aircraft or flying club jobs
- Prefer to start light and upgrade later
🚀 Who Should Choose B2?
Choose B2 if you:
- Want to work in airlines or large MROs
- Plan to certify complex avionics systems
- Have time and budget for full training
📝 Final Verdict
Both licenses are valuable. B2L is perfect for quicker entry and light aircraft, while B2 is essential for those aiming for full avionics authority in airline or advanced commercial sectors.
Tip: You can start with a B2L license and later upgrade to a full B2 by clearing additional modules and meeting DGCA's experience requirements.
📣 Need Help Choosing?
Still confused about which license suits your goals? Contact us at [your contact/email Me.] for personalized guidance.