What is the difference between the PPL and the NPPL ?
The NPPL, or National Private Pilots Licence, has been designed to fit the needs of the recreational pilot in the UK. It allows the individual to fly recreationally only within UK airspace, and in ‘simple’ aircraft under a maximum total weight of 2000 kg – this includes the Warriors used at Carill. The NPPL course is a minimum of 32 hours, although the ground exams are the same as for the PPL. Medicals consist merely of a student’s GP certifying that the candidate is medically fit up to HGV licence standards. The PPL, or more fully JAR-FCL PPL, is internationally recognised and designed for the pilot who is looking to travel more widely than just the UK, or is looking to become a commercial pilot. The course is a minimum 45 hours and consists of more advanced training (including radio navigation) than the NPPL. The medical standard is higher than for the NPPL – a Class 2 (or higher) medical certificate being required before you can solo. On achieving your PPL you can fly aircraft up to
