Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

The Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) course provides the training required to achieve the professional flying standard necessary to operate aircraft commercially and forms a key step towards a career as a professional pilot.

Course Description

The course consists of a minimum of 25 hours of flight training designed to raise the proficiency of the pilot to commercial standards.

Initial training focuses on improving general handling skills and flight in the airfield circuit to the standard required for commercial operations.

Training then progresses to the simulation of abnormal and emergency procedures, ensuring students develop the decision-making and aircraft handling skills expected of a professional pilot.

The course also includes instrument flight training, during which students learn to control the aircraft solely by reference to instruments, navigate using radio aids, and fly instrument procedures. Up to five hours of this training may be conducted in our ALX flight simulator. This section is not required for pilots who already hold a valid Instrument Rating.

Further training focuses on cross-country operations, including VFR and IFR en-route procedures and diversion planning.

Training is conducted primarily in a complex aircraft, the Piper PA28R Arrow, although some training may be completed in a Piper PA28 Warrior depending on individual course requirements.

The course concludes with final preparation and a formal pre-test assessment in preparation for the CPL Skill Test.

Upon successful completion of the course and skill test, graduates may apply to the UK CAA for the issue of a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).

Pre Entry Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements before starting the course:

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Private Pilot Licence

A Private Pilots Licence issued in accordance with ICAO Annex 1A.

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Night Qualification

A minimum of 5 hours night flight time.

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Flying Experience

A minimum of 200 hours total flight time prior to the skill test, including 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command (P1).



Cross-Country Experience

At least 20 hours cross-country flight time as Pilot-in-Command, including a qualifying 540 km cross-country flight.



Medical Certificate

A valid Class 1 Medical Certificate.



Theoretical Knowledge

Completion of the required ATPL or CPL theoretical knowledge examinations.



Minimum Age

The minimum age for the issue of a CPL is 18 years.

Duration

Training may be completed full-time or part-time, with the full-time course typically lasting 3–6 weeks, depending on weather conditions and aircraft availability.

Course Prices

Please see our Commercial Course Pricelist for the latest course fees.

Get in Touch!

Interested? Excited? Motivated? Still have some unanswered questions? Then why not call us on 01708 688380, or come along to one of our regular open days to find out more? Your dream of becoming a pilot starts right here!

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