CPL(A): Commercial Pilot Licence
Qualify to act as pilot-in-command on commercial aviation operations.
What Is the CPL(A)?
The Commercial Pilot Licence permits you to act as pilot-in-command of single-pilot aircraft in commercial air transport, and as co-pilot in commercial air transport. It is the gateway to a professional flying career: charter, air taxi, and more. Issued under EASA Part-FCL, the CPL(A) opens doors that a private licence cannot.
Entry Requirements
Valid PPL(A) holder
150 total flight hours, including 50 hours as PIC of which 10 hours cross-country, before starting flight training
ATPL(A) Frozen theory (13 subjects) or CPL(A) theory
Instrument flight time included in total hours
EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate
Experience Requirements
Minimum 200 total flight hours at licence issue
At least 100 hours as pilot-in-command
Cross-country flight of 540 km with 2 full-stop landings at aerodromes other than the departure aerodrome
EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate
Ground School
ATPL(A) theory: 13 subjects
Distance learning or full-time classroom. Theory examinations via EASA-approved authority.
Air Law
Aircraft General Knowledge: Airframe, Systems, Power Plant
Aircraft General Knowledge: Instrumentation
Mass & Balance
Performance
Flight Planning & Monitoring
Human Performance
Meteorology
General Navigation
Radio Navigation
Operational Procedures
Principles of Flight
Communications
Flight Training
Minimum 25 hours dual instruction
Training Aircraft: Cessna 172, Bristell B23, or Diamond DA42 (MEP)
Training Progression
Complete PPL(A) and build initial flight hours
Obtain EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate
Begin ATPL(A) theory: 13 subjects
Instrument and night flying instruction
Solo cross-country hour building
Advanced commercial flight manoeuvres
Pre-exam consolidation flights
CPL(A) skill test with authorised examiner
Career Paths After CPL(A)
Charter and air taxi operations
Corporate aviation pilot
Aerial survey and photography
Flight instruction (with FI certificate)
Agricultural aviation
Gateway to ATPL(A) and airline career
Investment & Timeline
Cost
CHF 18,000-22,000
The CPL(A) flight course only (EASA minimum 25h flight training, 15h with IR); course starts at 150h. Full path from zero: CHF 80,000-100,000 with CPL theory or CHF 100,000-130,000 with ATPL theory (incl. PPL(A), IR, MEP, hour-building, theory).
Duration
12 - 24 months (from PPL(A))
Includes hour-building phase (100-150h), theory (CPL(A) course 250h+, or ATPL(A) theory 650h+ from PPL(A)), and practical CPL(A) training. Full-time: ~12 months from PPL(A).
Prerequisites
Modular route: PPL(A) holder. 150 hours total flight time, including 50 hours as PIC of which 10 hours cross-country, before the flight course; 200 hours, including 100 hours as PIC, at licence issue. EASA Class 1 Medical certificate. Night rating recommended.
EASA Part-FCL App 3 ↗Frequently Asked Questions
What are the prerequisites for CPL(A)?
You need a PPL(A), 150 hours total flight time (including 50 hours as PIC, of which 10 hours cross-country) before the flight course and 200 hours (including 100 hours as PIC) at licence issue, an EASA Class 1 Medical, and a Night Rating is recommended. ATPL(A) theory or CPL(A) theory must be completed.
How much does CPL(A) training cost?
The CPL(A) flight course costs CHF 18,000-22,000. Full path from zero: CHF 80,000-100,000 with CPL theory or CHF 100,000-130,000 with ATPL theory (incl. PPL(A) and hour-building).
What is hour-building?
After PPL(A), you need to accumulate flight hours (typically 100-150h) to meet the 200h total time requirement for CPL(A). This can be done renting aircraft at ~CHF 250/h.
What jobs can I get with a CPL(A)?
Charter pilot, aerial work, flight instruction (with FI certificate), banner/glider towing, survey flying, and entry-level commercial operations.
Can I train modularly while working?
Yes. The modular CPL(A) pathway is designed for working professionals. You can complete hour-building and theory at your own pace.
Do I need an instrument rating?
IR(A) is not mandatory for CPL(A) but is essential for most commercial employment. We recommend completing IR(A) alongside or immediately after CPL(A).
Plan Your Professional Career
We will map the route from PPL(A) to CPL(A) with you: hour-building to the required 200 flight hours, theory and the Class 1 medical, from your current hours and your goals.
Discuss Your Path