PRIVATE PILOT TRAINING - PPL(A)
Your private pilot licence within reach
Your Private Pilot Licence
Do you dream of taking the controls of an aeroplane and experiencing aviation in a whole new way?
The PPL(A) – Private Pilot Licence – allows you to fly an aeroplane as pilot-in-command for non-commercial purposes. It opens up the opportunity to travel with your loved ones, discover new destinations and pursue your passion for aviation.
At Belgian Aviation Training, we support you throughout your training, from your first theory lessons to your first solo flight and right through to the final exam.
Training Accessible to Everyone
No previous aviation experience is required to start a PPL(A) course.
You can start your journey today, even if you’ve never flown before. Our instructors will guide you step by step to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to become a private pilot.
The training combines theory and practice, with a programme tailored to your own pace.
Requirements for obtaining a licence
To obtain your licence, you will need to:
- Be at least 17 years of age at the time of obtaining the licence
- Meet the theoretical and practical training requirements
- Pass the required examinations
- Hold a valid aviation medical certificate (Class 2 medical certificate).
- Meet the regulatory requirements applicable to the PPL(A)
- Prior knowledge of English is not compulsory, but is an asset for training and aviation communications
- Meet the applicable aviation language proficiency requirements for exercising the licence privileges (e.g. ELP in English or FLP in French)
Our team can guide you through the various stages of your journey here.
Your licence journey begins with your first flight at DronePort
Come and meet our team at Belgian Aviation Training in Sint-Truiden, and find out first-hand what private pilot training involves.
Before you get started, take part in our information session - available online or in person - to find out about the training programme, ask any questions you may have and chat with our instructors.
This is a first step towards discovering aviation and looking ahead to your future private pilot training.
Theoretical training
At BAT, we advocate an approach that combines theory and practice simultaneously.
The theoretical training takes place partly online and partly on-site at Belgian Aviation Training, with sessions designed to link theoretical knowledge to its practical application in flight.
The PPL(A) programme covers, in particular:
- General aircraft knowledge
- Performance and flight preparation
- Principles of flight
- Meteorology
- Navigation
- Aviation regulations and procedures
- Operational procedures
- Aviation communications
- Human factors and human performance
The course prepares you for the official theory exam required to obtain your licence.
Practical training
Practical training enables you to gradually put the knowledge you have acquired on the ground into practice and to develop your independence as a private pilot.
From the very first lessons, your instructor will guide you through learning the fundamentals of flying, right up to your first solo flight. In particular, you will learn to:
- Prepare for and carry out a flight safely
- Master the aircraft’s controls
- Carry out the various phases of flight
- Perform manoeuvres and emergency procedures
- Navigate to different aerodromes
- Carry out solo flights under your instructor’s supervision
European regulations stipulate a minimum of 45 hours of flight training to obtain the PPL(A), subject to meeting all applicable requirements.
The aim is not simply to clock up flight hours: it is to become an independent, responsible pilot capable of making the right decisions in flight.
Get started at BAT
Learn to fly with confidence.
Learn to fly
At your own pace, supported by our instructors.
Gain confidence
From your first step to your first solo flight.
Get your licence
Fly with complete freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions
No previous flying experience is required. The course is open to anyone wishing to learn to fly, provided they meet the relevant regulatory and medical requirements.
The duration depends on your availability, your rate of progress and the frequency of your flights. The training comprises a regulatory minimum of 45 hours of flight time, in addition to the required ground training and examinations.
Yes. You can begin your practical training with an instructor before you’ve completed the entire theory course. The flight hours completed as part of your training count towards your progress towards the PPL(A).