EASA PPL(A) Course

EASA PPL(A) - Son Bonet Airport (LESB), Palma de Mallorca, Spain

The Training 

  • Minimum 45 hours flight training
  • 25 hours of dual flight instruction
  • 10 hours of supervised solo flight time, including at least 5 hours of solo cross-country flight time
  • At least 1 cross country flight of at least 270 km (150 NM) that includes full stop landings at two (2) aerodromes different from the departure aerodrome
  • Nine (9) written exams with Austro Control GmbH
  • Practical radio telephony examination

The Privileges 

  • The holder can fly an EASA registered light aircraft (<5700kg)
  • Allows the holder to fly Visual Flight Rules (VFR) by day
  • Carry passengers without payment
  • Additional ratings such as Night and IR(R) can be added
  • The EASA licence is accepted worldwide

PPL(A) Price

Check price here. Due to minimal controlled overheads, Fly EPT Spain is able to offer one of the cheapest PPL courses in Europe. 

Convert EASA PPL(A) to UK CAA PPL(A)

To convert your EASA PPL(A) to a UK CAA licence is a simple formality, fully explained here

EASA Part-FCL Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) – Aeroplanes (A)

The Private Pilot Licence (PPL) permits the holder to fly single engine airplanes for private use while acting as the pilot in command (PIC) and enables them to carry passengers for non-commercial purposes under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).

The PPL is also the first step towards a career as a professional pilot.

A comprehensive qualification, the PPL syllabus includes both practical flight training and ground based study of everything you will need to know to pass the final flight test and obtain your EASA Part-FCL licence.

The PPL training syllabus is divided into two (2) parts, ground school and flight training. Ground-based study is delivered online and will carry you through 9 different theory subjects that will provide you with the basic knowledge required for flight training. The second step will be the practical flight training where you will develop the basic flying skills and learn how to takeoff, land and navigate.

The PPL course is a minimum of 45 hours in the air before you can take your final Skills Test (the aircraft equivalent of a driving test). 25 hours must be dual (with an instructor) and 10 hours solo with you acting as pilot-in-command (PIC). 5 of your solo flight hours must be cross-country flights. The remaining 10 hours is built up of revision.

To qualify as a Private Pilot, students must undergo two (2) different types of examinations; (a) theoretical exams, and (b) practical skills test (flight test) conducted in an aircraft by an EASA-certified flight examiner.

We offer the PPL either as a full time course, or as a part time course which enables you to fit the training in around your schedule.

The PPL is a great licence for someone wishing to progress their career in aviation, or for someone who has just always had ‘learning to fly’ on their bucket wish list.

PPL Age requirements

There is no minimum age for undertaking dual instruction but any received before the age of 14 is not counted towards the experience required for the grant of a licence.

A student pilot can therefore start flying lessons and log the flight time from the age of 14. 

A student pilot, however, cannot fly solo until the age of 16, and only providing they have passed the Air Law exam (and Comms; our school requirement) and a Class 2 Medical examination with an authorised Aero Medical Examiner (AME). 

The minimum age the PPL skill test can be taken and the licence issued is 17 years old.

Applicants for a PPL shall be at least 17 years old.

PPL Entry Requirements

There are no pre-entry requirements to start the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) course. However, before flying solo, a student pilot must:

  • Be at least 16 years of age.
  • Hold a valid class 2 medical certificate issued in accordance with Part-MED.
  • Have completed at least 10 hours of dual flight training.
  • Have completed the relevant emergency drills training.
  • Demonstrate evidence of English Language Proficiency (ELP) equivalent to ICAO minimum Level 4, before the skill test.

PPL Course Location

Fly EPT Spain delivers the practical flight training for the PPL(A) course in a Tecnam P2002-JF or a PA28 Piper Cherokee using experienced native-English speaking flight instructors (fluent in Spanish) at: -

Son Bonet Airport (ICAO: LESB), Palma de Mallorca, Spain 

PPL(A) Practical Flight Training Duration

4-5 weeks

A PPL student shall complete at least 45 hours of flight instruction. There are 19 flight training exercises:

General Handling: Familiarisation (Trial Flying Lesson), Effects of controls, Taxiing, Straight & level flight, Climbing, Descending, Turning, Slow flight, Stalling & spin avoidance. Circuits: Takeoff & climb to the downwind position, The circuit, approach and landing, Emergencies in the circuit, First solo. Advanced Handling: Advanced turning, Forced landing without power, Precautionary landing, Instrument flight introduction. Navigation: Visual navigation, Navigational problems at lower levels & in reduced visibility, Radio navigation.

The student must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the 19 flight exercises before they can be put forward for their skill test, have passed all nine (9) written exams and completed a short practical radio telephony test.

If you arrive having passed all nine (9) PPL theory exams, a full-time course of practical flight training for the Private Pilots Licence (PPL) is expected to last 4-5 weeks, but of course is dependent on ability, aptitude, personal commitment and weather. Although many students will complete the flight training part-time over a period of time that suits their availability.

Otherwise budget for 8 weeks full time to include both flight and theoretical ground training combined.

EASA PPL(A) Theoretical Knowledge 'Online' Ground Course

Students will need to undertake a PPL course of theoretical instruction. 

Theoretical training for an EASA PPL(A) course shall comprise at least 100 hours. 

You are required to undertake 70 hours of self study, which can be completed 'online' from home.

This is followed by 30 hours of 'ground school' classroom tuition which is delivered over ZOOM, which allows you to remain at home for the entire PPL theory course.

The purpose of the PPL ground training is to teach the syllabus for the following nine (9) theoretical subjects: -

- Before 1st solo

  • Air Law
  • Communications

- Before 1st solo navigation

  • Operational Procedures
  • Human Performance & Limitations
  • Meteorology
  • Navigation
  • Flight Planning & Performance

- Before Skill test

  • Aircraft General Knowledge
  • Principles of Flight

You will need to pass multiple-choice written exams in each subject.

Full details about our PPL 'Online' theory course here 

EASA PPL(A) course quality

Pilot students completing their PPL flight training with Fly EPT Spain will receive an EASA Part-FCL PPL(A).

Pilot courses delivered by Fly EPT Spain are certified and approved by the Spanish Civil Aeronautical Authority; Spanish: Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aerea (AESA), are internationally recognised and accepted by all European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) country member states and by all states that recognize and accept EASA provisions and regulations.

The EASA-country state licence issue (SOLI) that issues your PPL is therefore entirely your choice 

For example, a German student completing their PPL flight training course in Spain is free afterwards to present their EASA PPL(A) course completion certificate and skill test report form to the national civil aviation authority of Germany for the issuance of their licence. 

British pilots, post-Brexit, are encouraged to initially apply to the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). This said, there are many more highly recommended European countries that can be considered. To convert EASA to UK CAA, is a very simple formality explained here. 

The EASA PPL(A) is valid throughout Europe and is usually acceptable worldwide subject to individual national requirements.

Advantages of flying in Spain with Fly EPT Spain

PPL, Night rating and hour building booked as standalone courses are considered leisure in Spain which levies a 21% Value Added Tax (VAT), known as IVA. However, when booked with ATPL Theory, the package is considered educational / professional and therefore becomes VAT free as there is no VAT imposed on commercial flight training in Spain. This will currently save you 21% compared to those European countries that charge VAT on professional flight training. 

The process of applying for a UK PPL(A) on the back of an EASA license is a very simple formality; explained here

Faster training. If you study the PPL(A) theory online from home using our web-based training distance learning software platform, if you pass the exams before arriving at Fly EPT Spain, we will be able to get you through the practical flight training, all going well, within a month and this will save you a considerable amount of Euro'€.

  • Located at SON BONET Airport (LESB), PALMA DE MALLORCA, Spain
  • Professional native English speaking flight instructors, many bilingual-fluent in many other languages. Learn aviation English.
  • Best weather in Europe. 300+ days of sunshine per year.
  • Easy navigation for learners, flying around a coastal island.
  • Low-cost flight school, minimal overheads, cheaper pathway, pay-as-you-go. All savings are passed onto our students.
  • Accelerated, intensive PPL course
  • Distance learning PPL ‘online’ ground course - study from home.
  • Fly 7 days a week
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • In-house 'onsite' aircraft maintenance.
  • In-house examiners
  • Shared Pilot accommodation. 
  • Can do, Safety first attitude. 
  • Some flight instructors are experienced airline pilots, available for mentoring and advice

International Student (Pilot) Visa

Student pilots from countries which are eligible for Spanish visa-free entry of up to 90 days, can take a PPL(A) and Night rating course without the need to obtain a student visa (as long as the duration of the course is shorter than 90 days). Those coming from countries which do not qualify for Spain visa-free entry need to apply for a Schengen Student Visa. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where can I do my EASA Class 2 Medical examination?

You can check the full list of EASA-approved Aero-Medical Examiners (AME) in Spain here, and in the UK here. 

Can I convert an EASA Part-FCL PPL(A) to a UK CAA PPL(A)?

Yes - you can very easily convert your EASA PPL(A) to a UK CAA licence afterwards. Post-BREXIT you can have both a UK and EASA PPL(A). To convert EASA to UK, or vice versa, the PPL holder must:

  • provide a Licence Verification Letter to the UK CAA by the issuing state
  • Pass the written exams in Air Law and Human Performance & Limitations
  • have logged at least 100 hours total time as a pilot in the relevant aircraft category; and
  • Pass the UK PPL Skill Test with a UK CAA Flight Examiner in a G-registered aircraft (Fly EPT Spain can arrange this)
  • Demonstrate ICAO English language proficiency, minimum level 4
  • Obtain a Class 2 Medical certificate issued by a UK CAA authorised Aero-Medical Examiner (AME)

If you wish to apply for a UK CAA PPL on the back of an EASA licence, how to make the application is explained here.

Can I convert an existing ICAO / FAA / UK CAA PPL to Part-FCL EASA?

Yes. If you hold a foreign ICAO / FAA / UK CAA Private Pilot Licence (PPL) obtained outside the Europe Union, you can easily convert it to a European EASA Part-FCL licence.

The licence conversion process is fully explained here

Will I pass my PPL in the minimum 45 hours?

We try very hard to make sure our students complete their PPL course in the minimum number of hours. We have very good, experienced instructors and the course is carefully structured to make this possible. We must, however, caution that if you are not able to maintain continuity, inevitably the revision element of each lesson will take slightly longer and this may well mean that you need some additional hours to reach the required standard before being ready to take your skills test. The reality is, most student pilots usually complete the PPL course in around 50 to 55 hours and this is usual no matter where you learn. Any extra flight time is priced accordingly pro-rata.

What is the pass criteria in the PPL skill test?

The conditions for pass in the PPL(A) skill test are described in FCL.125(c). The PPL Skill Test candidate has to demonstrate the ability to:

  • operate the aeroplane within its limitations;
  • complete all manoeuvres with smoothness and accuracy;
  • exercise good judgment and airmanship;
  • apply aeronautical knowledge;
  • maintain control of the aeroplane at all times in such a manner that the successful outcome of a procedure or manoeuvre is never seriously in doubt.

The following limits are for general guidance. The Flight Examiner should make allowances for turbulent conditions and the handling qualities and performance of the aeroplane used: -

  • Height:
    - normal flight ± 150 ft
  • Heading or tracking of radio aids:
    - normal flight ± 10°
  • Speed:
    - take-off and approach +15/–5 knots
    - all other flight regimes ± 15 knots

How long is an EASA PPL valid for?

All EASA Part-FCL pilot licences are non-expiring and are valid permanently.

The PPL describes the privileges of the holder, not the actual means how the privileges can be exercised which is why the PPL license is valid indefinitely. The means of exercising the privileges is described by qualifications with expiry dates, for example: -

  • Class rating; valid 1-2 years
  • Instrument rating; valid 1 year
  • English Language Proficiency (ELP), validity period dependent on level
  • Medical certificate; the validity of your medical also limits your PPL. If your Class 1 or 2 Medical Certificate is NOT valid your PPL license also becomes NOT valid in which case you can NOT exercise the privileges of your licence.

How can I keep my PPL current?

The PPL does NOT expire.

However, you will be issued with a Single Engine Piston (SEP) (Land) rating which allows you to fly SEP aircraft up to a maximum takeoff weight of 5,700 kgs. This SEP rating is valid for 24 months. So your PPL SEP must be renewed every 2 years. 

There are two (2) ways to revalidate (keep valid) the SEP (Land) Rating:

  • within the 3 months preceding the expiry date of the SEP (Land) Rating, pass a proficiency check with a Flight Examiner; OR:
  • within the 12 months preceding the expiry date of the SEP (Land) Rating, complete 12 hours of flight time, including:
    • 6 hours as pilot-in-command;
    • 12 takeoffs and landings; and:
    • a refresher training flight of at least 1 hour with a Flight Instructor (FI) or Class Rating Instructor (CRI). If you have already completed a proficiency check or skill test in another type or class of aeroplane, you will not have to complete this training flight.

So before the SEP (Land) expires, a Flight Instructor (or examiner) can revalidate by experience an SEP rating under FI privileges FCL.945 providing the above flight time requirements have been fulfilled. This involves a 1-hour 'refresher’ training flight with an FI.  

Should your SEP (Land) class rating expire, however, then an expired rating needs to follow the renewal process. This means that in addition to refresher training with an FI, as needed, you will also need to pass a proficiency check with a Flight Examiner.

What do I need to start flight training?

To begin flight training, you need to pass a class two (2) medical examination and ideally have a high school certificate or have attended a vocational school. 

Will I be able to carry out paid activities with a PPL(A)?

No. You cannot receive remuneration for flying an aircraft with a Private Pilot Licence. The PPL is designed exclusively for recreational use.

What happens if, after obtaining my PPL, I want to continue with the Commercial Pilot course?

The PPL is a requirement before starting the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) course and so forms the first step towards obtaining a CPL. As soon as you receive your PPL you can enroll on the ATPL theory ground course (or CPL). You also need to complete a structured solo flight hour building program.

Can I fly at Night?

After receiving your PPL you can use it anywhere in the world, during the hours of daylight in Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) i.e. reasonable weather conditions. The daylight restriction and weather restriction can be removed by completing a Night rating qualification or an IR(R) course, respectively.

LAPL to PPL Conversion Course

You will receive credit for having passed LAPL theory which can reduce the theory hours to no training and no examinations. (Appendix 1 to Part-FCL). To convert LAPL to PPL, you will need to do:

  • 15 hours of flight time (after LAPL issue), 10 hours of which shall be dual flight instruction. 

- Of the 10 hours dual flight instruction time, 4 hours shall be supervised solo flying. Of the 4 hours, 2 hours shall be solo cross country flying. 

- One of the cross-country flights must be 150 nautical miles (or more), with 2 full-stop landings at two (2) separate aerodromes. 

  • No exams. The LAPL exams will cover you for the PPL as well.

What can you do with a PPL?

You are only limited by the category of aircraft that you are licensed to fly (A: aeroplane, B: balloon, H: helicopters or S: sailplanes). A PPL allows you to fly a single-engine aircraft as pilot in command (PIC) for non-commercial passengers i.e. not for remuneration, hire or reward. You can fly an EASA-registered aircraft with an EASA PPL without restrictions anywhere in the world. All flights must be undertaken in good weather conditions (otherwise you need an instrument rating) and in daylight (otherwise you need a Night rating).

How can I apply for my PPL(A)?

Upon completion of your Fly EPT Spain PPL(A) course, you can choose to have your licence issued by any EASA country member state.
For example, if you are British having completed your course with us in Spain, you can can apply for an Irish licence. Our course completion certificate is recognised by all EASA country members.

Your EASA Part-FCL PPL(A) will be issued upon application by your state's licencing authority.

To apply online for PPL issuance, you will be asked to upload the following documents: -

  • Copy of your theoretical knowledge examination results
  • PPL flight training Course Completion Certificate
  • Certified copy of your pilot logbook pages illustrating PPL exercises completed, hours flown (dual/solo)
  • Flight radiotelephony operators licence (FRTOL)
  • Copy of your valid Part-MED class 1 or 2 medical certificate
  • ICAO English Language Proficiency (ELP) Assessment form - minimum level 4+ (if applicable)
  • Copy of Part-ORA DTO approval certificate
  • Skill Test Report
  • Copy of the Flight Examiner’s flight crew licence and examiner certificate
  • Copy of your Passport or National Identity card

To apply for your Private Pilot Licence to: -

References

Recommended reading:

Air Pilot's Manual - Flying Training: Volume 1

The blue 'Flying Training' book contains the PPL practical flight training syllabus. This is the book you need to read before each flying lesson. You can order an eBook here which is perfectly suited for Android and Apple iPad / iPhone. You can also order on Amazon but the eBook will be the most up to date version.