The Light Aircraft Pilot's Licence
The Light Aircraft Pilot's Licence, or LAPL has similar requirements to the PPL, except that the flight training time is a shorter 30 hours, and the Qualifying Cross Country is only 100 Nautical Miles.
The LAPL is not a licence which is recognised outside of the UK and is limited to VFR (flight in good weather), hence we will always encourage trainees to go for the PPL where possible. However, where certain health conditions prevent the obtainment of a Class 2 Medical, the LAPL is a viable alternative.
The licence requires a minimum of 30 hours flying time, but this will of course depend on any previous flying experience, and the frequency that lessons are taken. Of these 30 hours, a minimum of 6 must be flown as supervised solo (3 of which will be cross-country navigation).
The lower requirement for hours may seem appealing, but do bear in mind that with a LAPL, you will need to complete a further 10 hours of flying after your licence has been issued, before being able to carry passengers.
Theory
There are 9 theory examinations to take for the PPL, comprising of the following subjects:
- Air Law
- Operational Procedures
- Human Performance and Limitations
- Meteorology
- Navigation
- Principles of Flight
- Flight Performance and Planning
- Aeroplane General Knowledge
- Communications
Exams are online, sat at Premier Flight Training, and are multiple choice with a 75% pass mark. The theory is usually self-study for which we can provide you with variety of training materials, although our instructors are available to book for additional ground tuition if required.
Requirements
The only real requirement is the ability to hold a UK LAPL medical issued by a CAA Aeromedical Examiner or General Practitioner. We are lucky to have an AME for LAPL medicals on-site with us every other week - please do ask and we will happily put you in contact with him.
The minimum ages for the course are as follows:
- Minimum age to commence the course: 14 years
- Minimum age to fly solo: 16 years
- Minimum age for licence issue: 17 years