Obtain your Private Pilot Licence (PPL-A)

The Private Pilot Licence (PPL-A) is your gateway to the world of aviation. It allows you to act as pilot-in-command or co-pilot of aircraft for which you hold the appropriate class or type rating, always in non-commercial operations.

With this licence, you can enjoy the freedom of flight, expand your piloting skills, and take the first step towards new opportunities within the aviation sector.

Course description

Whether you wish to fly for leisure or are taking your first steps towards a professional aviation career, the Private Pilot Course (PPL) is the gateway to the world of aviation.

It is one of the most versatile training programmes, as it not only provides you with the essential flying skills but also opens up a wide range of future development opportunities. With the PPL licence, you can progress to different types of aircraft and explore various areas within the aviation sector.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to specialise in disciplines such as aerobatic flying or mountain flying, as well as expand your capabilities through additional ratings such as multi-engine (ME) or instrument rating (IR). These certifications will enable you to operate more advanced aircraft, fly at night, and handle more demanding weather conditions.

Finally, the PPL licence can be the first step towards a professional pilot career. Through programmes such as the CPL or the modular ATPL pathway at Barcelona Flight School, you can continue your training and progress towards a professional role, turning your passion into a long-term investment in your future.

Structure

The course structure is organised into two distinct phases: a Theoretical Training Phase and a Flight Training Phase, the contents of which are detailed below.

To be eligible for the Flight Training assessment, it is mandatory to have successfully passed the examinations corresponding to the Theoretical Training Phase.

The Theoretical Training Phase consists of the following subjects:

Common subjects

  • Air Law
  • Human Performance and Limitations
  • Meteorology
  • Communications

Aircraft category specific subjects

  • Principles of Flight
  • Operational Procedures
  • Flight Performance and Planning
  • Aircraft General Knowledge
  • Navigation

The Flight Training Phase consists of 45 hours of flight instruction in aircraft, of which up to 5 hours may be completed in an FSTD (flight simulation training device), and must include at least:

  • 25 hours of dual flight instruction
  • 10 hours of supervised solo flight, including at least 5 hours of solo cross-country flight, with a minimum of one cross-country flight of at least 270 km (150 NM) during which at least two full-stop landings must be carried out at aerodromes other than the point of departure.

The course can be completed on any type of single-engine aircraft fleet operated by the club:

  • Tecnam P92
  • Tecnam P2008
  • Cessna 152
  • Cessna 172N / 172R / 172S
  • Pipistrel Explorer
Duration

The course duration is approximately 3 months, and it allows students to combine the Theoretical Training Phase with the Flight Training Phase. However, the total time required to obtain the licence depends on the time available and the number of examination sessions needed to pass the different subject exams and the flight test. As a result, the overall duration typically ranges between 6 and 12 months.

Requirements

Applicants for this licence must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 17 years old on the date of the examination
  • Hold a valid Class 2 Aeromedical Certificate

Would you like to become an airplane pilot?

Call us at 937 101 290 or use the contact form to find out how L’Aeroclub can help you turn your dream into reality.