The Private Pilot’s Licence is the basic licence required to be able to operate a light aircraft.

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The flying training consists of three phases.

First, learning the basics of flight: straight and level, turns, climbing and descending, stall avoidance and recovery, handling emergencies on the ground and in the air.

Second, airfield circuits learning how to take off and land in different conditions: three point and wheel landings, crosswind technique, short field technique, precautionary and bad weather technique, forced landing without power.

Third, cross country navigation including landing away at other airfield and diversions (for example to avoid bad weather).

In addition to the flight training, the student is expected to study the required ground school topics: eg air law, navigation, radio, aircraft technical and human performance.  Free Ground School is given at the group on non-flying days and at evening classes.  Self-study is required too either from text books or on-line courses found at https://cfg.groundschool.online 

The minimum training requirement for a PPL is 45 hours flying, but many take longer.  55-60 hours is typical.  Given the variability of English weather, aircraft serviceability and your own availability it generally takes two flying seasons (18 months) to complete the programme.

Before being allowed to go solo you will need to obtain a Class 2 Medical.  For most people this is routine but you should obtain your medical as soon as possible after starting your training.  (Other licences with fewer privileges are available for people unable to meet the Class 2 medical requirements.)

To encourage potential students to join the group we offer a significant discount to the first two years membership fee for all ab initio student pilots.