Flying the open skies as a private pilot, may be a daunting dream at first. However, if you are prepared with the right information, you will flying in no time! Piloting in the UK is governed by the Civil Aircraft Authority (CAA) as well as the Joint Aircraft Authority (JAA). The Joint Aviation Regulations (JAR) provide strict guidelines for all pilot candidates in participating European nations. These regulations must be followed perfectly in order to obtain your licence without delay.
The first step to obtaining your Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is to locate a flight school. Listings of JAA and CAA approved flight schools can be found by contacting the JAA and CAA directly. Upon obtaining a CAA PPL, this licence can be easily converted to a JAA license which gives the pilot license to fly in any JAA member nation. In addition, because of stricter guidelines in the UK, a CAA licence can easily be converted to an FAA licence for flying in the U.S.
Pilot training includes a minimum of 45 hours of flight time both with your trainer and on solo flights. You will also be required to participate in a theoretical knowledge course and pass written examinations prior to your licence approval. Not only will your flight and aircraft knowledge be tested, but also your medical state will be in question. The medical evaluation will be extensive to ensure the safety of both you and your passengers. Medical evaluations must be conducted by a CAA/JAA approved Aeromedical Examiner. The tests consist many facets including lung function and cardiological testing.
Once all written and medical testing is complete, a CAA examiner will administer your final test, the Skills Test. Upon successfully completing this test, you may apply for licensure. Although the process may seem labor intensive, the rewards of being a licenced pilot are well worth the all of the effort!
