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
The 9 EASA theory subjects (FCL.215)
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
Communications
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
SEP revalidation: 12 flight hours in the 12 months before expiry, incl. 6 h PIC, 12 take-offs and 12 landings and 1 h refresher training with an instructor, or a proficiency check with an examiner in the 3 months before expiry (FCL.740.A)
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 in all EASA member states.
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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