Becoming a Private Pilot: The Comprehensive Pathway
Discover the private pilot training program and experience the freedom of flight, explore the world from above, and learn to fly an aircraft independently. Whether for leisure, travel, or as a first step toward a professional career, private pilot licenses are the gateway to general aviation.
There are currently two licenses that allow you to fly non-commercially: the LAPL(A) and the PPL(A). They serve similar purposes but offer different privileges.
LAPL(A)
Light Aircraft Pilot Licence
The LAPL(A) (Light Aircraft Pilot License) is a European license designed for recreational flying.
It allows you to:
- fly light aircraft weighing up to 2 tons
- carry up to 3 passengers
- fly in Europe
- fly under visual flight rules (VFR)
The training includes a minimum of 30 flight hours.
It is particularly suited to people who want to fly for pleasure, with a shorter course and a more manageable budget.
The LAPL(A) is ideal for:
- enthusiasts who wish to fly occasionally
- recreational pilots
- people not pursuing a professional career
PPL(A)
Private Pilot Licence
The PPL(A) (Private Pilot License) is the Private Pilot License.
It allows you to:
- fly light aircraft without such restrictive weight limitations as the LAPL
- carry passengers
- fly internationally
- pursue professional qualifications
- More comprehensive training, enhanced development potential
The training includes a minimum of 45 flight hours.
PPL(A) is recommended for:
- pilots wishing to travel abroad
- people considering a professional career
- those who want a more scalable license
How to choose between LAPL(A) and PPL(A)?
The choice between LAPL(A) and PPL(A) depends mainly on your plans. LAPL(A) is ideal for recreational flying in Europe, with a simpler framework and a shorter course. PPL(A), which is more comprehensive and internationally recognized, offers greater flexibility and allows you to progress to higher qualifications or a professional career.
At Hexagone Aviation School, we generally recommend the PPL(A) for its versatility and career prospects.
Training admission requirements
The PPL(A) Curriculum at Hexagone
Training Phase / License Acquisition
These aid programs are designed for students, employees, and individuals undergoing career transitions who wish to enter the aviation professions.
Competency maintenance
After obtaining your PPL license, you must maintain your SEP class rating.
Supplementary Training
Competency enhancement
Why Choose Hexagone for Your PPL?
Our mission: to make you competent, autonomous, and confident, whether you fly for leisure or are considering an aviation career.
Hexagone Aviation School offers training that is:
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Comprehensive, compliant with EASA standards
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Flexible, offering both in-person and eLearning formats
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Premium, through individualized mentorship
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Progressive, enabling transition to CPL, ATPL, or advanced variants
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Internationally recognized, owing to the PPL(A) accreditation
