From your first lesson to airline-ready — explore every licence, rating, and qualification available in the UK.
Important: Whilst we endeavour to keep this information up to date, the only definitive and current source for UK pilot training, licensing and statutory fees is the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Always check with the CAA before enrolling on any course or relying on any fee or requirement shown here. For further information, contact the CAA.
The prices and courses indicated below are meant as a guide and this may differ from what is offered from the flying school you select.
Showing 21 courses
A UK-specific licence for flying light aircraft, microlights, or motor gliders within UK airspace. Often chosen by those who cannot meet the medical standards of a full PPL.
Discontinued for new issues since October 2025. Existing holders retain their privileges. Previously the most accessible EASA entry point for recreational flying — limited to 2,000kg aircraft and 3 passengers.
The 'Gold Standard' for private aviators. An ICAO-compliant licence recognised globally, allowing you to fly larger single-engine aircraft and carry passengers worldwide.
The first professional milestone. Legally required to be paid for flying — instruction, aerial photography, charter work, and more.
The ultimate goal for airline pilots. Required to act as Captain of a multi-pilot commercial aircraft for major international airlines.
A modern airline-specific training route. Focuses on multi-crew operations from day one, usually as part of an airline cadet programme.
A quicker, more affordable path to the helicopter cockpit. Restricted to helicopters under 2,000kg with up to 3 passengers.
The starting point for most helicopter pilots. Fly as Pilot-in-Command on single-engine helicopters for non-commercial operations.
Fly helicopters for a living — offshore oil rigs, police air support, executive charters, and air ambulance work.
The highest helicopter certification. Required to captain large, multi-pilot helicopters for offshore transport and search & rescue.
One of the most popular first steps after a PPL. Fly after sunset — essential for winter flying and a stepping stone to instrument training.
Formerly the IMC Rating — a UK-specific qualification to help private pilots cope with unpredictable British weather. Valid in UK airspace only.
The most prestigious and difficult rating. Fly 'blind' using only cockpit instruments — essential for clouds, heavy rain, and controlled airspace.
The bridge between light aircraft and commercial jets. Learn to handle the extra speed and complexity of twin-engine aircraft.
A course specific to a single aircraft model. Required for every different airliner — from Boeing 737 to Airbus A350.
Loops, rolls, and spins — legally required in the UK for intentional aerobatic manoeuvres. Builds exceptional handling skills.
Specialised training for flying in challenging high-altitude terrain — the Alps, Highlands, and designated mountain airfields.
Share your passion and teach others to fly. Instruct students towards their PPL and LAPL — also an excellent career stepping stone.
Teach pilots who already have a licence to fly a different class of aircraft — e.g., single-engine to multi-engine transitions.
Take to the skies in hot air balloons and airships. A unique and memorable way to experience flight.
Soar silently using thermals and ridge lift. Gliding is one of the purest and most affordable forms of aviation.
The CAA has announced the following changes that may affect UK pilot training, licensing, and statutory fees during 2026.
From 2026 the CAA has reduced the PPL(A) minimum from 45 to 40 flight hours. The updated syllabus introduces partial engine power-loss training and the use of VFR moving-map devices alongside traditional navigation skills.
The LAPL(A) has been discontinued for new issues since October 2025; existing holders retain their privileges. NPPL ratings have also been renamed to align with EASA terminology — SSEA is now SEP (Single-Engine Piston) and SLMG is now TMG (Touring Motor Glider).
Statutory CAA charges have been revised: PPL £263, LAPL £215, CPL/ATPL/MPL £341, FRTOL £103, and rating additions £170. Figures shown across this page reflect the new 2026–27 schedule.
For further information, contact the CAA.