Image

LAPL Training (Beginner)

The LAPL (Light Aircraft Pilot Licence) allows you to fly a light aircraft either solo or with friends in nice weather. This license is the equivalent of a driver’s licence, but a bit more rigorous.

A lot of flying schools will push you towards a PPL but if you’re planning to fly as a hobby and in nice weather, then there’s no need for a PPL.

At MotorGlide, we recommend that you train for the LAPL (Light Aircraft Pilots License); for the majority of UK pilots, the privileges of this licence suits them perfectly.

More information on glider pilot conversions to this licence can be found here.

What’s the difference between a PPL & LAPL?

Hours
For the LAPL, you need to complete minimum of 30 hours of training instead of the 45 you complete for the PPL (saving you at least £1700!).

Medical
For the LAPL, you require a LAPL medical which is similar to a DVLA van medical. For the LAPL it’ll cost £80 to £120. For a PPL you need a Class 2 or higher (£120+).

Training
At MotorGlide, we train you in a motorglider (much more affordable), and once you’re at licence level we can then convert you to a larger aircraft. The result is that you gain an LAPL with two ratings: TMG & SEP. This is a european license and therefore can only fly anywhere in Europe.

What licence do I train for?
95% of UK private pilots only fly in good weather and only in the UK, so there is no need for any license other than an LAPL. If you ever want to upgrade to the PPL, that can easily be done later.

LAPL Training Beginner 1
Training Requirements
  • Minimum of 24 hours of dual flying training (total of 30hr including solo)
  • 6 hours solo flying
  • Solo cross-country of 80nm, landing at one other airfield.
  • Aircraft Radio Test
  • 9 ground exams
  • Skill Test, to cover general handling, emergencies and navigation.
Medical Requirements
  • LAPL medical or higher is required
  • This can be obtained from your GP, but we recommend you see an AME (Aero Medical Examiner).
  • A full list of Aeromedical Examiners (AME) are avaliable on the CAA website

How much will it cost?

Other Flying Schools

Prices vary dramatically from £140 to £220 per hour for a light aircraft, and most training organisations only offer the PPL (it makes them more money!), at 45 hours of training.

  • Taking the average of price £190 per hour:
  • 45 hours x £190/hr = £8,550
  • Extras – books, ground exams, CAA fees = £500
  • Total cost = £9,050+

MotorGlide

We are open with our pricing and we train you for the NPPL or LAPL, saving you money.

  • Cost per hour = £160
  • 30 hours x £160 = £4,800
  • Extras – books, ground exams, CAA fees = £500
  • Total cost £5,300 (budget for £6,000 and you’ll have no financial surprises)

NB: 30 hours is the minimum required for this licence. The number of hours required in practice depends on the individual student’s ability; therefore, more training hours may be required to achieve your licence.