1. I am thinking of learning to fly, what is the best way to start?
2. What is the NPPL?
3. What is the PPL?
4. What is the minimum age I can start flying?
5. What medical requirements do I require?
6. How much do flying lessons cost?
7. How do I join AWA Flying Group?
8. How long does it take to get my license?
9. Do I have to take written exams?

1. I am thinking of learning to fly, what is the best way to start?

A trial lesson is an ideal and affordable way of sampling flight in a light aircraft. The lesson involves a full briefing with one of our highly experienced instructors followed by half an hour (or more if you wish) flying time in the aircraft of your choice. You will have the chance to take control of the aeroplane and attempt maneuvers demonstrated by the instructor. For trial lessons - Click Here.

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2. What is the NPPL?

The National Private Pilots Licence was introduced in 2002. This new licence has been specifically designed to meet the requirements of the recreational flyer and is therefore less complex, and thus somewhat easier to attain, than the up till now only UK option, the JAR (European) PPL. It is a structured course of flying instruction over a minimum 32 hours. More info.

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3. What is the PPL?

To gain a JAR-FCL PPL(A) a student must have completed at least 45 hours flight time as a pilot of aeroplanes. This must include 25 hours Dual Instruction on aeroplanes, 10 hours Supervised solo flight time which must also include 5 hours Solo Cross-country flight time and a Solo Cross-country flight of at least 270km (150nm). This flight must make full stop landings at two different aerodromes different from the aerodrome of departure. More Info.

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4. What is the minimum age I can start flying?

There is no minimum age for dual instruction, but any received before the age of 14 is not countable towards a license. You must be at least 17 years of age before you can be granted a licence but student pilots may act as Pilot-in-Command and take their first Solo Flight from their 16th birthday provided they act only in accordance with instructions given by a flying instructor.

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5. What medical requirements do I require?

Before being allowed to fly solo, you must have a current medical certificate. The medical standard requires normal health and conditions, you must be able to see with both eyes but you are allowed to fly with the use of contact lenses or glasses. Colour blindness will bar you from flying at night but not necessarily by day, the final authority being the Civil Aviation Authority Medical Branch.

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6. How much do flying lessons cost?

Prices start from £60 for 30mins. for a trial flight. More info.
For lessons - click here.

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7. How do I join AWA Flying Group?

Joining the club is very easy, just call into the club and ask a member for details. You could be flying the same day. For more info and cost of membership - click here.

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8. How long does it take to get my license?

The time taken to gain a licence will depend on the students ability but generally, we find that most students will take from 9 to 18 months to complete their training. Ideally, a student should plan to fly at least once a fortnight, and ideally once a week. Regular flying plays a significant role in the training.

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9. Do I have to take written exams?

Along with the flying, a student is also required to pass theoretical knowledge examinations in seven subjects. These are not too difficult for most students. Click here to go to our Ground School page for further details.

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