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 or co-pilot on commercial air transport operations. 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
Minimum 150 total flight hours
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 150 total flight hours
At least 100 hours as pilot-in-command
Cross-country flight of 540 km with 2 full-stop landings at different aerodromes
EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate
Ground School
ATPL(A) frozen theory - 13 subjects
Distance learning or full-time classroom. Theory examinations via EASA-approved authority.
Air Law
Aircraft General Knowledge
Flight Performance & Planning
Mass & Balance
Instrumentation
Human Performance
Meteorology
General Navigation
Radio Navigation
Operational Procedures
Principles of Flight
VFR Communications
IFR Communications
Flight Planning & Monitoring
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) frozen 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 (200h+), and practical CPL(A) training. Full-time: ~12 months from PPL(A).
Prerequisites
PPL(A) holder. 200 hours total flight time. 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), 200 hours total flight time, 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 help you map the most efficient path from PPL(A) to CPL(A) based on your current hours and goals.
Discuss Your Path