Pilot Training

Microlight Licence

A National Private Pilot Licence (NPPL) Microlight licence is required to fly microlights, and can be gained by training with a qualified flying instructor in accordance with a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) syllabus of training. The minimum requirements are:

25 hours total flying time to include:

10 hours solo consolidation including two qualifying cross country flights of 40 nautical miles or one 100 nautical mile cross country flight with 2 landings at least 15 miles apart.

15 hours total flying time for a restricted NPPL microlight licence to include:

7 hours total solo time. This licence would limit you to flying in the local area but can be upgraded after completing the full 25 hours and the cross country elements. 

General Skills Test

In either case, you will need to pass a General Skills Test and an oral exam, which is much akin to a driving test. In addition to this you will need to pass 5 multiple choice exams in the following subjects:

  • Principles of flight
  • Air law
  • Navigation
  • Meteorology
  • Human factors

Microlight Training

Learning to fly is fascinating and good fun. A microlight licence is simpler than a conventional aircraft licence and can be gained in approximately two thirds of the flying time and half the cost. We also offer a ground school to teach and assist you with the theoretical exams.

The above licence requirements are minimums and do not guarantee a pass, everyone learns at different rates and times may vary. However anyone with determination and a little application should be able to “gain their wings”.

A detailed summary of the NPPL microlight syllabus can be found HERE.

Looking for Inspiration?

Richard Symonds put together this video clip “Why We Fly” from his flight along the Jurassic coast in Dorset by flexwing microlight back in 2016 – enjoy!

Tuition Costs

Tariff

Flying tuition per flying hour (includes an additional briefing and debriefing – total lesson time approximately 2 hours).

Using School Aircraft
Dual Tuition per Flying Hour£120
Solo Flying Under Supervision£100
Using your own Aircraft
Dual Tuition per Flying Hour£90
Solo Flying Under Supervision£30

After your initial dual training period of approximately 15 to 20 hours or as your training approaches circuit training (taking off, landing and flying in the airfield circuit) you will eventually be confident enough and have had sufficient training to complete your hours flying solo, having achieved a good standard of airmanship. These hours will vary dependent upon each individual’s ability to learn. Your solo hours can then either be in your own aircraft or a school aircraft. The cost of the school aircraft will include insurance, fuel and hangarage. A current medical declaration must be obtained before going solo

Ground Tuition and Exam Charges
Ground school individual tuition per hour£30
Written exam charges per paper £30