A Private Pilot License is generally seen as a learner's license in order to obtain a Commercial License. However the PPL is also seen as a License for people who want to pursue aviation as a hobby. This qualification allows you to be pilot in command in an aircraft and carry passengers during daytime and in clear weather conditions. A PPL does not allow you to receive remuneration for your flying activities and is purely for pleasure private use.
Requirements for Student and Private Pilot License
- Ab-initio -Student Pilot License (SPL)
- You must be 16 years age.however training may commence before this age
- A medical examination (Class I or II) must be done by a qualified aviation medical doctor.
- You must pass a technical examination of the aircraft chosen to train on, and a student pilot exam.
- 2 passport size photos will be required.
- Pay the fee to issue the SPL. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SA CAA) will allocate a License number which will enable you to fly an aircraft solo (on your own) while still under the supervision of your Instructor. Students who prove to be proficient enough after a minimum of 10 hrs dual flying will be sent for the first time Solo. This is a truly memorable experience, which signifies your official entry into the prestigious group of Aviators.
- Private Pilot License (PPL)
- You must hold a valid Student Pilot License.
- You will need to accumulate a minimum of 45 hrs of flight training, of which: minimum 25 hrs Dual flight instruction, minimum 15 hrs Solo (this must include at least 5 hrs solo cross-country flying) and 5 hrs basic instrument flying (IF) on either a simulator oran aircraft.
- You must pass a technical examination of the aircraft chosen to train on, and a student pilot exam.
- Successfully pass 8 online PPL examinations (pass mark 75%)
- Complete a English Language Proficiency Test (if required)
- Pass a Restricted Radio License course.
- You must be minimum 17 years of age in order to take your 2 practical flight tests. The first being a General Flight Test (GFT) which will focus on your ability to handle the aircraft in any situation. The second test is a cross-country Navigation Test which will focus on your ability to navigate safely with the examiner on a planned triangular route within a controlled air space and perform "away" landings at other airfields.
- Once you have accumulated the required flying hours in your logbook and passed all examinations and tests, all your training documentation will be checked and sent to the CAA. Afee must be paid for issuing the PPL and finally have your SPL upgraded to a PPL.