EASA requires minimum 45 hours of flight instruction: at least 25 hours dual instruction, at least 10 hours supervised solo (of which 5 must be solo cross-country, including one qualifying 270km/150NM flight). Up to 5 hours may be in a certified simulator (FSTD). If upgrading from LAPL, you need 15 additional hours.
The realistic average is 55-65 hours. Some finish in 48-50; others need 70+. Key factors: flying frequency (2-3x/week is optimal), weather, aptitude, and instruction quality. Students who fly only once a week often need 65-80 hours. Budget for at least 55 hours.
Full-time intensive: 6-8 weeks in good-weather locations. Part-time: 6-12 months in Southern Europe, 9-18 months in Northern Europe. No regulatory maximum timeframe, but theory exam passes expire after 24 months.
Three phases: pre-flight briefing (15-30 min), the flight itself (1-1.5 hours), and post-flight debrief (10-20 min). You also learn pre-flight aircraft inspections. Total time at the airfield: approximately 2.5-3.5 hours per lesson.
2-3 flights per week is optimal. Once a week is workable but expect 20% more total hours. Less than once a week causes significant skill regression. During pre-solo and pre-test phases, 3+ times per week accelerates progress significantly.
Common training aircraft: Cessna 152/172 (high-wing), Piper PA-28 (low-wing), Diamond DA20/DA40 (modern, glass cockpit options), Tecnam P2002/P2008. Hourly rates range from EUR140/hr (C152) to EUR280/hr (DA40 G1000). Your PPL includes an SEP class rating.
No. You can start flying before passing theory exams. However, all 9 must be passed before the skill test. Most students study theory alongside flying. Some schools recommend completing Air Law, Principles of Flight, and Meteorology early as they directly support practical training.
A solo flight of at least 270km (150NM) total distance, landing at two different aerodromes (full-stop landings). You plan the route using VFR charts, considering weather, airspace, NOTAMs, and fuel. Your instructor authorises but you fly alone. Usually one of the most memorable experiences in training.
Yes, up to 5 of the 45 hours can be in a certified FSTD (FNPT I, FNPT II, or BITD). Home simulators don't count. Useful for instrument basics, procedural training, and emergency scenarios. Not all schools have approved simulators.
A valid EASA Class 2 medical certificate (or LAPL medical for LAPL training). Must be obtained before first solo. Some schools allow dual instruction while your medical is being processed. If considering a career, get a Class 1 first.
The PPL licence itself never expires. However, to fly you must maintain: valid class rating (SEP, 24 months), valid medical certificate, and recency requirements (3 takeoffs/landings in 90 days to carry passengers). If your SEP rating lapses, you need a proficiency check to renew it.
