Frequently Asked Questions.
Getting your Private Pilot Licence (PPL) in the UK is like embarking on an exciting adventure—complete with a little studying and plenty of flying! You’ll tackle nine ground school exams, log 45 hours of flight training (including time with an instructor and some thrilling solo flights), and show off your skills during a flight test. It's no wonder students have tons of questions about this exhilarating journey, from medical requirements to the costs involved. So, let’s jump into some common questions and answers that will help you soar toward your of becoming a pilot!
Do I have to keep money on account ?
No. Many Flying Schools ask you to keep your account topped up with £100s'. At Skytrek, you pay as you go, so we ask you to pay for your requirements on booking. Of course if you wish to place money on account, you are welcome to do so.
Do I have to pay an annual Membership fee ?
Can anyone learn to fly ?
What are the medical requirements to get a PPL ?
What are the privileges of a PPL ?
Yes, but we keep this as low as possible and is currently £175 per year including VAT.
Yes. Anyone can learn to fly, and it's an exciting journey. To get your licence, you will need to be at least 17 years old, but you can kick off your lessons as early as 14. Plus, there is no upper age limit - if you meet the medical standards, the sky is the limit.
To get your PPL, you will need a Part MED Class 2 Medical Certificate from a local CAA approved AME (Aviation Medical Examiner). These are not excessively stringent and you can wear glasses or contact lenses.
A PPL allows you to fly single engine piston aircraft and carry passengers and friends on flights, both within the UK and internationally.
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3. What are the privileges of a PPL?
A PPL allows you to fly single-engine piston aircraft and carry passengers and friends on flights, both within the UK and internationally.
4. How long does it take to get a PPL?
The average time to complete the PPL course is 12-18 months, but this can vary depending on the individual and factors like weather and lesson frequency.
5. How much does a PPL cost?
The total cost can range from £11,000 to £13,000, according to LAC Flying School, and it's not uncommon for students to require more than the minimum 45 hours of flight training.
6. What are the ground school subjects?
There are nine subjects you'll need to study and pass exams in: Air Law & ATC Procedures, Operational Procedures, Aircraft General Knowledge, Principles of Flight, Human Performance & Limitations, Meteorology, Communications, Navigation, and Flight Performance & Planning.
7. How many attempts do I get at the exams?
You get four attempts at each of the nine PPL exams. If you fail an exam four times, you'll need to undergo further training, and there's a 3-month cooling-off period.
8. What are the hardest parts of learning to fly?
Some common challenges include getting into "school mode," understanding radio communications, decoding weather information, grasping aerodynamics, learning regulations, understanding the National Airspace System, and aircraft systems.
9. What is the minimum flight time required?
You need to complete a minimum of 45 hours of flight training. This must include at least 25 hours of dual flight with an instructor and 10 hours of supervised solo flying time.
10. Can I carry passengers when I get my PPL?
Yes, you can carry passengers, but you must have completed three takeoffs and landings in the aircraft type within the last 90 days as the pilot in command.
11. How do I renew my PPL?
A PPL is valid for two years. You need to fly at least 12 hours in the second year if you have a PPL (or 6 hours per year for an LAPL). 50% of this time must be as pilot in command (P1).