The Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is the foundational stage of pilot training, allowing students to fly an aircraft as the pilot-in-command for non-commercial purposes. It is a prerequisite for all further advanced training in the Fastrack programme and provides essential flight skills, navigation techniques, and theoretical knowledge.
Entry Requirements
Minimum age: 17 years old
Hold a UK CAA Class 2 Medical Certificate (Class 1 recommended for those intending to continue to commercial training)
Good proficiency in English (ICAO Level 4 or higher recommended)
Training Breakdown
Flight Training (Minimum 45 Hours Total)
Dual Instruction: Minimum 25 hours with a flight instructor
Solo Flight: Minimum 10 hours of solo flight time, including at least 5 hours of cross-country flight
Navigation Exercises: Cross-country navigation, diversions, and airspace awareness
Circuits & Landings: Takeoff and landing techniques, including normal, crosswind, and short-field operations
Emergency Procedures: Handling engine failures, forced landings, and unusual attitudes
Flight Test Preparation: Review of manoeuvres, navigation, and radio communication prior to the final skills test
Ground School
Theoretical knowledge is assessed through 9 written exams covering:
Air Law – Aviation regulations and legal considerations
Operational Procedures – Standard operating procedures and safety measures
Navigation – Map reading, flight planning, and airspace rules
Meteorology – Weather interpretation and its impact on flight
Principles of Flight – Aerodynamics and aircraft performance
Flight Performance & Planning – Weight and balance, fuel planning, and takeoff/landing performance
Aircraft General Knowledge – Systems, instruments, and airframe components
Human Performance & Limitations – Physiology, fatigue, and decision-making in aviation
Communications – Radio telephony procedures and phraseology
Examinations & Skill Test
Written Exams: Must achieve at least 75% in each subject
Radio Telephony (RT) Practical Exam: Required to obtain an RT Licence for radio communication
Final Skill Test: Conducted with an examiner, assessing general handling, navigation, and emergency procedures
Expected Timeline
Full-time students: ~2-3 months (subject to weather and scheduling)
Part-time students: Varies based on availability and lesson frequency