LAPL: 30 hours minimum, LAPL medical (GP-issuable), max 2000kg MTOM, max 3 passengers, EASA-only validity, no IR possible. PPL: 45 hours minimum, Class 2 medical (AME), no MTOM limit within class, unlimited passengers (aircraft capacity), ICAO worldwide validity, can add IR/night rating, hours count toward CPL.
Choose LAPL for: purely recreational European flying, lower cost (EUR5000-8000), or if medical conditions prevent Class 2. Choose PPL for: international flying, instrument rating plans, possible career path, aircraft over 2000kg, or maximum flexibility. The extra 15 hours and cost are usually worth the PPL's greater flexibility.
Yes. Need 15 additional hours after LAPL issue (10 must be instruction), pass 9 PPL theory exams, obtain Class 2 medical, and pass PPL skill test. Total cost and time often end up similar to doing the PPL directly, so start with PPL if there's any chance you'll want it.
Same 9 subjects but PPL exams are more detailed. LAPL syllabus is a subset of PPL. PPL passes credit you for LAPL, but not vice versa. Both require 75% pass mark.
No. LAPL holders must complete 10 hours PIC after licence issue before carrying passengers. This restriction doesn't apply to PPL — you can carry passengers immediately if you meet 90-day recency requirements.
Night rating: yes. Instrument rating: no — IR can only be added to PPL or higher. This is a significant limitation if you fly in Northern Europe with short winter days or want to fly IFR.
Yes. Can be issued by an authorised GP (not just AME), no prescription limits for lenses, more accommodating of controlled diabetes, mild hypertension, and treated depression. Same validity periods as Class 2 (5yr under 40, 2yr 40-50, 1yr 50+).
