Learn to Fly
Everything you need to know about becoming a pilot - from your very first question to your pilot licence and beyond.
So You Want to Fly?
Learning to fly is one of the most rewarding things you can do. It is not reserved for the wealthy or the gifted - it is open to anyone with the motivation to learn. Thousands of ordinary people earn their pilot licence every year, and most of them started exactly where you are now: curious, excited, and unsure where to begin.
In Switzerland, pilot training is overseen nationally by FOCA (the Federal Office of Civil Aviation) and governed by EASA (the European Union Aviation Safety Agency). Your EASA licence is recognised across all EASA states (EU-27 + CH + IS + NO + LI) and convertible in most ICAO jurisdictions. EASA credentials are widely respected internationally. And within the EASA system, Switzerland's reputation for precision, rigour, and uncompromising standards sets it apart. Training here means training at the highest level.
There are two licences designed for private, recreational flying: the LAPL(A) and the PPL(A). Both allow you to fly single-engine aircraft. The difference lies in what you can do after you qualify.
Choose Your Path
Two licences. Two paths. One goal: getting you airborne.
Light Aircraft Pilot Licence
The fastest and most affordable route into recreational flying. Fly single-engine piston aircraft up to 2,000 kg with up to 3 passengers across all EASA member states.
Ideal if you want to fly for fun - weekends, holidays, scenic flights with friends and family.
Private Pilot Licence
The international standard for private flying - and the foundation for every professional pilot career. Fly single-engine aircraft anywhere in the world with ICAO recognition.
Ideal if you want maximum flexibility, international flying, or a pathway to professional aviation (CPL(A), ATPL(A), Instrument Rating).
LAPL(A) vs PPL(A) - At a Glance
| LAPL(A) | PPL(A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum flight hours | 30 hours | 45 hours |
| Ground school | 100 hours | 100 hours |
| Solo cross-country | Not required | 5 hours minimum |
| Medical certificate | LAPL(A) Medical | EASA Class 2 |
| Maximum passengers | 3 | Unlimited |
| Aircraft weight limit | 2,000 kg MTOW | No limit (SEP class) |
| Valid in | EASA states only | Worldwide (ICAO) |
| Night flying | Not available | With Night Rating |
| Path to CPL(A) / airline | No (must convert to PPL(A) first) | Yes - direct pathway |
| Typical cost (Switzerland) | CHF 16,000–19,000 | CHF 22,000–26,000 |
| Typical duration | 3–6 months | 4–8 months |
Requirements to Start
Minimum age 16 to fly solo, 17 to take the skills test
A valid aviation medical certificate (LAPL(A) Medical or EASA Class 2) - obtained from an Aeromedical Examiner
Sufficient English or German for radiotelephony
Open to all backgrounds - no specific academic prerequisites required
Training must be completed at a FOCA-approved ATO (Approved Training Organisation) such as alpaviation (CH.ATO.0147)
Why Train With alpaviation
EASA Certified
Licence recognised across all EASA states (EU-27 + CH + IS + NO + LI) and convertible in most ICAO jurisdictions.
Controlled Airspace
Train at Bern-Belp (LSZB) in controlled airspace from your first flight.
15 Aircraft Fleet
From Bristell B23 glass cockpit trainers to Diamond DA42 twins and high-performance singles.
One-on-One Mentorship
Your instructor knows your name, your strengths, your goals. Not a number in a system.
Modular Scheduling
Train around your life, not the other way around. Flexible, self-paced progression.
Alpine Training Ground
The Swiss Alps as your classroom. Demanding terrain builds confident, capable pilots.
Start your training at Bern-Belp.
Whether you're training for a career in aviation, refining private flying skills, or considering corporate or charter operations, we'll build a programme around your schedule and goals.