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 2 aerodromes different from the departure aerodrome.
9 written exams with Austro Control GmbH.
Practical radio examination.

The Privileges

The holder can fly a light aircraft (<5700kg) within the UK and European Union member states.
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.

PPL(A) Price

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

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

The Private Pilots 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 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, which is 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 different types of examinations; (a) a theoretical examination and (b) practical skills test (flight test) conducted in an aircraft by an EASA-certified examiner.

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

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

The minimum age a student pilot can start to take flying lessons and log the flight time is 14.

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

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

PPL Entry Requirements

There are no pre-entry requirements for the Private Pilots 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 a minimum ICAO 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 Socata MS-893A Rallye Commodore using experienced native English speaking flight instructors fluent in Spanish at: -

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

PPL(A) Flight Training Duration

4-8 weeks

An applicant for a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) shall complete at least 45 hours of flight instruction. The student must be able to demonstrate proficiency in 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 course.

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 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 Ground Course

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, allowing you to remain at home for the entire 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
Operational Procedures
Human Performance & Limitations

- Before 1st solo navigation

Meteorology
Navigation
Communications

- Before Skill test

Aircraft General Knowledge
Flight Planning & Performance
Principles of Flight

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

Full details about the PPL Ground School 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).

The EASA state that issues your licence is entirely your choice.

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 EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) member states and by all the states that recognize and accept EASA provisions and regulations.

Student pilots will receive an EASA PPL(A) course completion certificate. This, along with certain other documentation, will need to be presented to your EASA state regulatory authority's personnel licencing department who will then issue you with your EASA Part-FCL PPL(A).

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 which levies a 21% Value Added Tax (VAT) in Spain. However, booked with ATPL Theory, the package is considered professional and therefore becomes VAT free as there is no VAT imposed on commercial flight training in Spain. This will currently save you 21%.

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

Faster training. If you study the PPL(A) theory online from home using our distance learning platform software, if you pass the exams before arriving at Fly EPT Spain, we'll 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 €.

Located at SON BONET Airport (LESB), PALMA DE MALLORCA, Spain
Professional native English speaking flight instructors, bilingual, fluent in Spanish. 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 course
Distance learning online ground course - study from home.
Fly 7 days a week
Flexible Scheduling
'onsite' aircraft maintenance.
In-house examiner
Shared Pilot accommodation.
Safety first, can-do attitude.
Some flight instructors are airline pilots, available for mentoring and advice
Opportunity to continue with further professional flight training modules up to A320 / B737 full type rating course with base training.

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)

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. Since BREXIT it is now possible to have both a UK and EASA PPL(A).

To convert EASA to UK, or vice versa, the PPL holder must (a) pass two (2) PPL exams - Human Performance and Air Law; (b) have logged 100 hours total time; and (d) pass a skill test with an Examiner.

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.

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. Certainly we aim to produce the very best pilots so that we can be proud they are graduates of our school.

The reality is, most student pilots usually complete the PPL course in around 50 to 55 hours. 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
- with simulated engine failure ± 200 ft (if ME aeroplane is used)
Heading or tracking of radio aids:
- normal flight ± 10°
- with simulated engine failure ± 15° (if ME aeroplane is used)
Speed:
- take-off and approach +15/–5 knots
- all other flight regimes ± 15 knots

How long is an EASA PPL flight crew licence valid for?

All pilot licenses issued by EASA are non-expiring and valid permanently (unlike the previous JAR-FCL1/2 licenses which were administratively valid for 5 years.) The Private Pilot Licence 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
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(A) does NOT expire.

However, It is only valid for 24 months. Once issued your PPL must be renewed every 2 years. You will be issued with a Single-Engine Piston (Land) Rating. This rating allows you to fly single piston-engined aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of 5,700kg.

There are two 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 an 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:
- refresher training of at least 1 hour with a flight instructor.

Should your SEP (Land) Rating expire we can offer refresher training as needed to pass a proficiency check with an examiner.

Can I convert an existing ICAO PPL to Part-FCL EASA?

Yes. If you hold a foreign ICAO/FAA/UK Private Pilot Licence (PPL) obtained outside Europe, you can easily convert it to a European EASA one. In order to do this you will need to pass an exam in: -

Air Law
Human Performance

You also need to: -

undertake a Skill Test
have at least 100 hours as a pilot in the relevant aircraft category

What do I need to start flight training?

To begin flight training, you need to pass a class two (2) medical exam 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 initial step towards obtaining a CPL. As soon as you receive your PPL(A) you can enroll on the ATPL theory ground course (or CPL). You also need to complete a structured solo hour time building program.

Where can I fly an aircraft?

With an EASA PPL, you can fly without restrictions in all other European countries that are members of EASA.

Can I fly at Night?

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

What are the minimum training requirements for a PPL?

Around 100 hours of theory and 45 hours of practical flight instruction.

I already have a LAPL. Do I receive credit towards the PPL

Yes. You will receive credit for the theory which can reduce the hours of theory to as low as no training and no examinations. (Appendix 1 to Part-FCL).

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 the 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 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 PPL(A) course with Fly EPT Spain, you can choose to have your licence issued by any EASA member state.
For example, if you are German having completed your course with us in Spain, you can can apply for a German licence. Our course completion certificate is recognised by every EASA country.

Your 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

The application forms can be found here: -

for EASA Part-FCL, Austro Control's Part-FCL forms are all here including PPL Issuance form here.
for Spain's AESA (EASA), use form: F-DLA-SOL-02 Application for General Aviation Licenses and Ratings found here. AESA Skill Test Form can be found here
for UK CAA, all forms can be found here and for the PPL application form use SRG1105. SRG2128: Examiner Report for PPL(A) Skill Test
for Ireland (IAA), EASA PPL application forms can be downloaded here. All other IAA forms here.

EASA PPL(A) Course