A degree in aviation or aerospace engineering has a great advantage in terms of aircraft systems, aerodynamics, and mechanics knowledge which is useful for becoming a pilot. Nevertheless, for commercial or private flying, one needs to have completed flight training from an approved flight school and possessed licenses like a Private Pilot License (PPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL). Airline careers, on the other hand, may require additional credentials such as an Instrument Rating (IR) and an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).
Candidates seeking positions with many airlines and aviation companies with a engineering qualification possess an added advantage because of the technical skills, but this does not give them authority to fly. There are prerequisites, such as minimum flight hours, medical fitness, approval from relevant aviation authorities like FAA or DGCA, etc. If you have an interest in both aircraft design and piloting, then consider getting an engineering degree along with flight training, as that combination will give you plenty of options in aviation.