Obtaining a Private Pilot License as a Way towards Becoming a Part of Aviation Community

Real aviation enthusiasts can be recognized immediately – these people can spend hours talking about various aircraft engine types or cockpit differences, observing and discussing detailed aircraft pictures and expressing their fascination with people who have had an opportunity to pursue a lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. It is truly puzzling how people who in the long run have accumulated so much aviation knowledge refrain from integrating themselves directly into the world of aviation.

But there is a feeling of flying which according to Neil Armstrong when it comes „after you do not enjoy walking“ and the experienced pilots who have worked for many years in airlines still calls it the real motivation why they got into the field. Manoeuvring an airplane allows you to experience the feeling that is as close to the one that birds may have whilst flying as possible. One of the easiest steps towards getting to know this feeling is the PPL course. You can officially call yourself a pilot after just 6-12 months of training. Throughout the PPL studies the candidate gains all the knowledge and practical skills necessary to operate a single-engine, single-pilot aircraft (such as Cessna, Piper or Tecnam).

Recently the AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) has conducted a study regarding the flight training industry. The findings have revealed that a large majority of private pilot license holders and students tend to initially seek training for recreational reasons. Certainly, the unique experience of learning to fly is inherently rewarding to most audiences. The overall experience of a flight is truly valuable regardless of the reasons behind operating an aircraft.

’Learning to fly for one’s own pleasure is often the main objective of ambitious working people who decide to take up this unique hobby. It allows them to experience the freedom of flying and the adrenaline of breaking human limits. Imagine a law executive locked in his suit who after a long day’s work passes by in the sky on a roaring iron bird – it must feel exhilarating! It is never too late to succumb to your inner desire and start making the most of your leisure time. After all, the most common age for gaining the PPL license starts at forties,’ said Indre Sveistryte, Head of the Flight Training Organization at Baltic Aviation Academy.

According to the AOPA Private Pilot age survey, in the United States, 18% of all licence holders are between 18 to 29 years’ old, 16% belong to the group of people who are aged 30-39, and 20% fall into the age group of 40-49. The biggest percentage of PPL holders are already over 50 (33%), 14% have already celebrated their 65th birthday.

In order to start training for the Private Pilot License you do not have to possess special knowledge as it is required for airline transport course candidates wishing to work for airlines and carry 180 and more passengers. Eyesight requirements which might withhold many people from pursuing a career as a professional pilot are not that strict for gaining the PPL. The correction limits for the initial Class 2 examination are +5/-8 dioptres. The JAR-FCL Class 2 Medical Certificate obtainment takes no longer than a regular visit to your GP.

’The reason which once brought me to aviation was the desire to do something challenging and interesting without having to refrain from other activities. I am sure it is worth to spend time pursuing the hobby as it allows you to be more content with your life and constantly get to see new places. I also think that a guy who has the ability and the confidence to be a pilot and control an aircraft can be trusted by employers in other fields too,’ commented Andrea Rodolfo from Italy, a PPL student at Baltic Aviation Academy.

Next to all the bells and whistles, one recent study results have to be taken into consideration. After a thorough inquiry into the flight training industry, the AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) has revealed that as many as 80 percent of those who start flight training do not earn a private pilot certificate. Private pilot license is a great way to become a long-dreamt part of aviation community and have a wonderful time in training; however it still takes time, dedication and determination to go through the complicated disciplines such as meteorology and navigation to reach the sky.

The admission for Private Pilot License (PPL(A)) study distance groups at Baltic Aviation Academy starts on the 26th of March.

Author: Natalja Chrustaliova

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