How to Get a Recreational Pilot License
Are you an avid flying enthusiast? Feeling like giving the pilot role a try? Well then, you’re in for a wild ride. Fans of flying will agree that there’s nothing more liberating and calming than going up in the air and getting all up-close and personal with the clouds. In times like that, you’re quite literally on cloud nine. You feel all giddy and excited just by thinking about it. If only you could do it as frequently as you like.
But what if there is a way for you to that? Imagine going on a flying session whenever you like, wherever you like. Doesn’t that sound like a dream? Plus, it’s definitely a great way to treat your significant other to a unique date or special occasion. It’s a win-win situation, wouldn’t you agree? To hop onto this trend, all you have to do to take the pilot role into your own hands is apply for a recreational pilot training course and get your license.
Who Can Apply for a Recreational Pilot License?
As is the case with any legal document, there are specific requirements you’re expected to meet to be able to apply. Luckily, there aren’t any strict rules in place in order to attend an extensive rpl training course. To apply, you have to be at least 16 years of age, have basic knowledge of the English language, and have a Class 1 or 2 medical certificate. Doesn’t seem too far-fetched right?
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How Do You Get a Recreational Pilot License?
Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible to take the course, you’ll have to fill in an application form to get started. Make sure you follow the instructions in the form, submit a recent photo and relevant proof of identity. When everything is all set, you can begin your training.
Complete Flight Training
In a nutshell, you get about 25 hours of flying time, 20 of which are dual and 5 hours as pilot in command. In this way, you’ll gain invaluable knowledge of flying a single engine aircraft up to 1500 kg as the pilot in charge. This includes practicing sharp turns, forced landings and instrument navigation. Eventually, you’ll be able to fly an aircraft with passengers and without supervision.
Pass an RPL Theory Exam
When you’ve completed your training, you’ll be required to take an exam in order get your license. The first part of the exam focuses on theory, meaning you’ll have to memorise the basic aviation concepts so that you can put them to good use later on. You’ll likely be given specific guidelines on what the theory exam consists of, along with recommendations on which course books to read in preparation.
Pass an RPL Test Flight
At the final stage, you’ll be tried and tested in action by a team of professionals. If they determine you’ve fully developed your skill set, congratulations, you’ll have successfully completed your rpl training.
What Study Guides Should You Read?
To prepare for your theory exam, you’ll have to read through a few aviation course books to get a general idea of what to expect.
Bob Tait RPL/PPL Study Guide Vol. 1 & 2
Offering an in-depth explanation of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations, this study guide will keep you up to date with the RPL syllabus. It doesn’t overwhelm you with information. Instead, it presents everything you need to know in a clear and concise way. The emphasis is on those elements that are absolutely crucial for your safety and the well-being of your passengers.
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Aviation Theory’s Flying Training Manual
This handbook is intended to reinforce your training programme. It provides ample preparation before each flight and substantial briefings on all the basics. This is especially convenient if you don’t fly that often because it refreshes your memory to ensure a safe flight.
Aviation Theory’s Flight Radio for Pilots
All new and experienced pilots will agree that navigating the equipment in the cockpit is the key to a successful flight. This guide offers detailed descriptions of all the radios and phraseology used in standard calls by operators.
Aviation Weather Handbook
Weather plays a crucial role in aviation and as a pilot, you’re expected to recognise marginal or potentially hazardous weather conditions, and act accordingly. Taking prompt action plays a critical role in the successful outcome of your flights so it’s crucial during rpl training.
For this reason, it’s a good idea to have a look at Aviation Weather Handbooks which discuss any and all aspects of weather that are directly related to aircraft operation and flight safety. It’s a comprehensive guide to both visual and instrument-related meteorological conditions that can have a tremendous effect on how you handle the aircraft.
Visualized Flight Maneouvres Handbook
Here you’ll find all the standardised manoeuvres and regulations that are needed to fly an aircraft. Each manoeuvre is illustrated in great detail on large fold-out pages, giving you the chance to take in all the visual and text information at once. This thorough step-by-step guide helps you understand what you should be looking for out the cockpit window.
Moreover, it includes extensive checklists of for all stages of aircraft navigation, ranging from pre-flight to take-off and landing, ensuring that you have everything you need. There’s a handy index too, which means you can go through the contents of the course book with ease.
