National Private Pilot Licence (NPPL)

What can I do with my NPPL?

The National Private Pilot Licence (NPPL) allows you to act as Pilot in Command (PIC) of UK-registered aircraft for non-commercial (recreational) flights within the United Kingdom.

With an NPPL(A) (Aeroplanes) and the appropriate class rating (such as SSEA – Simple Single-Engine Aeroplane or Microlight), you can:

• Fly single-engine aircraft for leisure and personal use.

• Operate by day and in visual flight conditions (VFR) — remaining in sight of the surface and in good weather.

• Carry passengers once you have gained sufficient experience after licence issue (typically after 10 hours as Pilot-in-Command).

• Share flight costs and expenses with your passengers — you just can’t be paid for flying.

• Enjoy UK-only privileges; the NPPL is a national licence, so flights outside the UK require permission from the destination authority.

What are the pre-course requirements?

To begin your NPPL training, you’ll need:

• A valid NPPL Medical Declaration (normally completed through your GP or online via the CAA).
  [Click here for more information.]

• Basic English language ability sufficient for safe radio communication and instruction.
  (A formal ICAO Level 4 certificate is not required for the NPPL.)

• No previous flying experience is required! You can start training from zero hours.

What does the NPPL course involve?

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) sets the minimum training requirements needed to obtain a National Private Pilot Licence (NPPL).
Training is designed to take you from zero experience to confidently flying solo and carrying passengers for fun within UK airspace.

To qualify for an NPPL(A) (SSEA – Simple Single-Engine Aeroplane), you’ll need to complete at least:

• 32 hours of flight training, including:

  • 22 hours dual (with an instructor)

  • 10 hours solo, of which at least 4 hours must be solo navigation

  • 1 cross-country qualifying flight of at least 100 nautical miles (185 km), with two full-stop landings at different aerodromes

• 9 multiple-choice ground exams, covering Air Law, Meteorology, Navigation, and more

• A skills test with an authorised examiner (your final flight test)

• A radiotelephony practical exam and English language proficiency check

• A valid NPPL Medical Declaration (must be held before your first solo flight)

Minimum ages

• 14 years old – to start logging training flights

• 16 years old – to fly solo

• 17 years old – to hold your NPPL licence

Find your local Aeromedical Examiner here.

Where can I go with my NPPL?

Once you’ve earned your NPPL, the UK skies are yours to explore!
At SEMET Aviation, we’ll help you build confidence to plan your own flights and discover new destinations.

• Enjoy a coastal lunch on the Isle of Wight

• Take a weekend flying trip into the Scottish Highlands

• Visit friends and family across the UK

• Or even upgrade your NPPL to a full PPL later on, extending your privileges across Europe

How much does a NPPL cost?

On average an NPPL will cost between £9,000 and £12,000 depending on a number of factors.

The most popular and affordable aircraft is the Cessna 152.

Can I pay for my LAPL in blocks of hours?

Absolutely, we offer the ability to pay for your flight training in 10 hour blocks. These prices include headset hire, Blackbushe landing and circuit fees and all briefings and de briefings.

Cessna 152 - £2,600

Cessna 172 - £2,900

Piper PA28 - £3,100

Diamond DA40 - £3,700

Can I pay for training per hour?

Below is our dual training member rate. This includes the aircraft, instructor, landing and circuit fees, headset hire and all briefings and de briefings.

Cessna 152 - £270

Cessna 172 - £295

Piper PA28 - from £320

Diamond DA40 - £380

A Student membership is required for all LAPL training. The Student membership is £15 per month.

I am already training elsewhere. What are my options?

It’s actually quite easy to change training school. Please see our informative document for more information.

Transfer of Records Document

Can I do a trial lesson?

We would recommend completing a trial lesson prior to starting your flight training. The trial lesson will count towards your LAPL training and will give you a taste of what flight training involves. Prices start from £155.

How do I book?

Please call 01483 363 078 or email theteam@semetaviation.co.uk to organise a trial lesson!

Terms and Conditions

• Student membership is not included and is payable separately. Student membership is £15 pcm.

• If you require more flight training on top of our packages this will be charged at our ‘Pay as you go’ dual training rate.

• Changing aircraft is allowed however the difference in price per hour will be charged.

• Flight Training will be completed out of Blackbushe unless agreed separately.

• Refunds will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. We will always endeavor to accommodate our customers where we can.

• Prices for our products are subject to change without notice.

• It is the students responsibility to organise training and other course requirements.

• A fuel surcharge may apply.

• Courses which are not completed within 12 months may be subject to further charges.

You can find further information about our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy by clicking the links at the bottom of this page.