Train
Thinking about learning to fly?
Instructors at The Pilot Centre are experienced, keen and dedicated to passing on their skills and knowledge to everyone who is interested in flying — aiming to make the learning as enjoyable as possible.
You will fly with one of our full-time flying instructors, or with one of our part-time instructors who may be or have been an airline pilot. You should soon feel at home with other flying enthusiasts who help to create the friendly, club atmosphere which is the hallmark of The Pilot Centre.
There are two Private Pilot Licences available in the UK: the PPL and the NPPL. The NPPL is a sub-ICAO licence which means it is a UK only licence, but it can be upgraded to a PPL later.
| NPPL | PPL |
|---|---|
| The minimum age to go solo is 16 and to hold a licence is 17. There is no upper limit. Experience from the age of 14 can be counted towards the PPL. | |
| Medical requirements are the same as for professional driving. | Class 2 medical is required. It is more difficult to obtain and more expensive to maintain. |
Nine multiple-choice ground exams:
| |
| Minimum 32 hours; plus a skill test. | Minimum 40 hours; plus a skill test. |
Our Ground School provides tuition in all of these subjects in the winter months. These examinations are taken at The Pilot Centre. There is also an oral assessment for Radiotelephony.
Extra things to budget for
- Medical
- Headset
- Text books
- Navigation equipment
- Landing fees away from Denham
- Skill test aircraft rental
- CAA licence issue
- Any additional hours required
Using your flying licence
Having gained your licence, what use can you make of it? You can hire aircraft for local flights or short trips with your friends and family — or go a bit further. You might also consider developing your skills with ratings, learn how to fly more advanced aircraft, or even buying your own.
So where do I start?
Now that you know a little more about what is involved in getting and using a flying licence, the next step is usually a trial flying lesson.
Get in touch or — best of all — visit The Pilot Centre to obtain more information. You will find that a warm welcome awaits you whenever you decide to contact us.
UB9 5DF