PPL(A) - Private Pilot Licence
Fly single-engine piston aircraft across Europe. The foundation of every pilot's career.
What Is the PPL(A)?
The Private Pilot Licence enables you to fly single-engine piston aircraft across all EASA member states for private, non-commercial purposes. It is the first stepping stone toward more advanced ratings and professional licences.
Ground School
Minimum 100 hours
Two evenings per week (3 hours each) or distance learning with 10 hours in-person instruction.
Air Law
Aircraft General Knowledge
Flight Performance & Planning
Human Performance
Meteorology
Navigation
Operational Procedures
Principles of Flight
Radiotelephony
Flight Training
Minimum 45 hours
Training Aircraft: Bristell B23 or Cessna 172
10-Stage Progression
Basic aircraft handling - straight & level, turns, climbs, descents
Circuit training - takeoffs and landings
Advanced manoeuvres & slow flight
First solo flight
Navigation - local and cross-country flights
Advanced navigation techniques
Cross-country solo flight (after theory exam)
Advanced flight manoeuvres
Pre-exam consolidation
Practical skills test
Additional Requirements
Radiotelephony certificate (VFR voice)
Language endorsements as required
EASA Class 2 Medical Certificate
After Your PPL(A)
SEP class rating - valid 24 months
Minimum 12 flight hours in last 12 months for renewal
Gateway to Night Rating, IR(A), CPL(A), and beyond
Course Schedule 2026
Evening courses: October through March
Distance learning: year-round
Investment & Timeline
Cost
CHF 22,000 – 26,000
Includes theory course, flight training (minimum 45h), landing fees, examiner fees. Additional hours at standard rates.
Duration
6 - 18 months
Depends on training frequency. 2-3 flights per week: ~6 months. Weekend-only: 12-18 months.
Prerequisites
Minimum age 17 (16 to begin training). EASA Class 2 Medical certificate from a FOCA-accredited AME, required before first solo flight. Non-Swiss / non-EEA students: visa and SEM clearance may apply — please contact us. No prior experience required.
EASA FCL.210.A ↗Documents & Registration
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does PPL(A) training take?
Typically 6-18 months depending on frequency. Flying 2-3 times per week, you can finish in about 6 months. Weekend-only training takes 12-18 months.
What does PPL(A) training cost?
CHF 22,000-26,000 including theory, a minimum of 45 flight hours, landing fees, and examiner fees. Additional hours are charged at standard rates.
Do I need any prior experience?
No prior flying experience is required. You need to be at least 17 years old (you can start training at 16) and hold an EASA Class 2 Medical certificate.
What medical certificate do I need?
An EASA Class 2 Medical, issued by an authorised aviation medical examiner (AME). The examination covers vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and general fitness.
Can I train part-time while working?
Yes. Most of our PPL(A) students train part-time. We offer flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends to fit around your work commitments.
What aircraft will I fly?
Training is conducted on our modern fleet including Cessna 172, Piper Archer, and Bristell B23 with glass cockpit avionics.
Where can I fly with a PPL(A)?
A PPL(A) issued under EASA allows you to fly single-engine piston aircraft as pilot-in-command across all EASA member states and beyond.
Do I need to speak German?
Flight training can be conducted in English or German. VFR radio communications in Swiss airspace require a separate language endorsement (available in DE, EN, FR, IT).
Ready to Begin?
Contact us to discuss course dates, requirements, and personalised training options.
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