Private Pilot's Licence (PPL(A)) and National Private Pilots Licence (NPPL(A))
Private Pilot’s Licence (Aeroplanes)
The minimum age to obtain a PPL(A) is 17. Flying training at a DTO or ATO is creditable and a pupil can solo an aeroplane at the age of 16.
A PPL(A) for aeroplanes will allow you to act as pilot in command (PIC) in non-commercial operations on aeroplanes or on touring motor gliders (TMGs).
The exception to this is for holders of a PPL(A) with instructor or examiner privileges who can be renumerated accordingly.
A Part MED Class 2 Medical will also need to be held by the time the pupil could be sent solo and for the subsequent issue of the licence.
You will need to complete 40 hours of flight instruction on aeroplanes of which 25 hours will be dual flight instruction. 10 hours will be supervised solo flight time, and this will include at least 5 hours of solo cross-country flight time with at least 1 cross country flight of at least 150 nautical miles that includes full stop landings at 2 aerodromes different from the departure aerodrome.
If you have previous experience, you may have a credit towards the amount of training required, you are directed to the CAA webpage listed below:
Listed in the Fees & Charges section of these pages is an estimated breakdown of the costs for a successful candidate carrying out the training within the minimum requirements of the course. You only pay for each lesson once you have completed it.
National Private Pilot’s Licence (Aeroplanes)
The holder of an NPPL(A) with an single-engine piston, class rating may exercise the privileges of the licence to fly aeroplanes registered in the UK within UK airspace.
Use of the licence within the airspace of other countries is subject to the agreement of the relevant authorities in those countries.
An applicant for an NPPL(A) SEP(Land), shall be at least 17 years of age.
The minimum age for the first solo flight is 16 years of age.
The NPPL(A) is issued with a lifetime validity.
Class ratings included in an NPPL(A) are issued with a 24-month validity period to the end of the calendar month.
Student pilot must have either made a valid Pilot Medical Declaration (PMD) or hold a valid CAA Class 1 or 2 Medical Certificate when flying solo under supervision.
An applicant for an NPPL(A) with SEP(Land) rating shall have completed at least 32 hours flight time as pilot of aeroplanes (excluding NPPL Skill Test).
Training for the NPPL(A) SEP(Land) must include the following:
a) 22 hours dual instruction (to include 1 hour instrument appreciation).
b) 10 hours supervised solo flight time which must include at least 4 hours of solo cross-country flight time, including one solo cross-country flight of at least 80 nautical miles in the course of which a full stop landing at one aerodrome other than the aerodrome of departure shall be made.
At the hourly flying rate of £220, the thirty two hours of flying training will cost £7040. All other fees for equipment and examinations are as published in the Fees & Charges section of these web pages.
How do I get Started?
Having perused this information, you’re poised for an exhilarating introductory Discovery flight. Guided by a skilled instructor, you’ll acquaint yourself with the aircraft, ascend into the skies, and, under expert guidance, assume control and soar.