Light Aircraft Pilot Licence/Private Pilot Licence - Helicopter

What is it?

LAPL/PPL, which stands for Light Aircraft/Private Pilot Licence gives you the privilege to fly as a pilot in command for recreational purposes but it does not entitle you to fly commercially. With further training, the PPL licence is the first steppingstone to the commercial licence.

We recommend training on our Robinson R44 Helicopter as this is considered a fantastic primary training aircraft.

How long is it valid for?

The LAPL/PPL is valid for life, however your individual helicopter type rating needs to be revalidated every year.

Training Requirements

Our approved course of training consists of flight exercises covering everything from basic handling to navigation and emergencies. To apply for your LAPL, you must complete at least 40 hours flight time as a pilot of helicopters, and 45 for the PPL.

This must include:

25 Hours Dual flight instruction

10 hours of supervised solo flight time, including at least 5 hours of solo navigation including a qualifying cross country.

The qualifying cross country flight must be at least 100 nautical miles in distance, landing at two different airfields.  Note that whilst the minimum total time required is 45 hours, students will often take a little longer, typically 50 – 65 hours, to complete their training.

Credits towards the issue of a LAPL/PPL are available, based on other licences held such as the LAPL (H).

Before you can complete the Pilot Licence, you must satisfy the following requirements:

Hold at least a valid Class 2 or Class 1 medical

Pass all of the required theoretical examinations

Hold a Radio Telephony Licence

Applicant must be over the age of 17 (but may begin the course earlier at the age of 14)

Course Syllabus

The course consists of 30 training exercises, which are broken down into three sections: General Handling, Navigation and Instrument Flying.

Theoretical Exams

Each applicant must complete and successfully pass the written exams as laid down by the CAA in the following subjects:

Air law

Operational Procedures

Human Performance and Limitations

Navigation and Radio Aids

Flight Planning and Performance

Meteorology

Aircraft General Knowledge

Principles of Flight

Communications

Students are required to prepare for their ground exams by self-study, additional ground school is available on one-to-one basis with an instructor.

Skills Test

One you have completed the flight exercises and all the theoretical exams passed, you are ready for the flight skills test with a CAA Authorised Examiner. The skills test examines your navigation and general handling abilities. Don’t worry you will be well practised and fully ready when time comes!

For more information visit our FAQ section or get in touch with us.

To book your training please get in touch on  01202 590800 or [email protected].