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The Training

The steps to get your Microlight Pilots License (NPPL)

Types of license

Restricted
Requires a minimum of 15 hours flying instruction of which 7 hours must be solo. Some of the restrictions include: you can't take off if the wind is above 15 knots, you must not fly outside a radius of 8nm from your departure airfield, you cannot carry passengers until you have logged at least 25 hours flight time (10 hours as Pilot in Command).

Unrestricted
Requires a minimum of 25 hours flying instruction of which 10 hours must be solo. You must also complete the navigation part of the course and complete 2 cross country navigation exercises. You are free to fly where you like and can take passengers.

Lessons

The course starts with dual lessons where your instructor guides you through a series of flying exercises. The exercises start with basic handling skills and progress to complex manoeuvring and procedural flying. Each lesson is between one and two hours long and usually starts with a briefing, followed by the flying exercise followed by a de-briefing.

To see the full syllabus you can downloaded it here: NPPL Microlight Rating Syllabus (PDF)

Going Solo

When your instructor thinks you're ready you'll go on your first solo flight. This is an amazing and slightly nerve racking experience which a Pilot never forgets.

You will then fly for 10 hours solo during which time you will complete two cross country navigation exercises.

Cross Country Navigation Exercises

Using your navigation skills you will fly to, land and return from two separate airfields.

General Skills Test

Once you’ve completed all your training you will need to pass a General Skills Test. The examiner will ask you to demonstrate the skills you've learnt during your training.

If you pass you have completed the flying section of the syllabus.

Exams

There are five exams to pass:

• Technical - the technical aspects of the aircraft.
• Air Law - The do’s and don’ts of flying.
• Navigation.
• Meteorology.
• Human Performance & Limitations.

Medical

A medical examination is not required but you do need a medical certificate declaring you are healthy, signed by your doctor and countersigned by you.

Radio Operators License

To operate the radio in an aircraft you are required to possess a Radio-Telephony Operators Licence.

After completing a short course you need to pass a written and practical exam. More information about the course and exam can be found here: Pegasus Radio Course