Light Aircraft Pilot Licence LAPL(A)
The Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL) is a restricted form of the PPL(A). It allows you to fly single-engine piston aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 2,000 kg within Europe, carrying up to 3 passengers.
What can you fly with the LAPL?
Aircraft Type
Single-engine piston aircraft up to 2,000 kg maximum take-off weight
Flight Rules
VFR, day and night (with night rating). Non-commercial flights only.
Validity
The licence is valid for life. The SEP class rating must be renewed every 2 years.
Operating Area
Europe (EASA member states only)
With a LAPL(A) and SEP rating (acquired together), you may fly single-engine piston aircraft up to 2,000 kg maximum take-off weight within Europe, from small Cessnas to high-performance Cirrus SR22 Turbo. After 10 hours of flight time after licence issue, you may obtain passenger privileges and carry up to 3 passengers. VFR flights are permitted; a night rating can be acquired separately. Instrument flight is not possible with a LAPL.
The LAPL licence is valid for life, but the SEP class rating must be renewed every 2 years with a proficiency check flight or instructor flight.
Requirements
Theory Training
- Air Law
- Navigation
- Aircraft General Knowledge
- Communication
- Flight Performance and Planning
- Human Performance and Limitations
- Meteorology
- Operational Procedures
- Principles of Flight
The theory course covers 9 subjects. Depending on the flight school, between 10 and 30 hours of classroom instruction may be provided.
To prepare optimally for the theory exam, you should plan for at least 85 hours of self-study. PilotExam is the ideal platform for training with the latest question bank.
The theory exam consists of 9 to 15 questions per subject. About 75% of the questions are publicly available, the remaining 25% are unpublished. You must answer at least 75% correctly to pass. The unpublished questions are usually variants or very similar to the published ones.
The theory exam can be taken in parts. It is considered passed if all subjects are completed within 18 months of the first exam date. The practical test must then be completed within 24 months.
Practical Training
In practical training, you will learn the basics of flying, emergency procedures, navigation, and how to use radio and navigation instruments.
The practical training consists of at least 30 flight hours, including at least 6 hours of solo flight. At least 3 of these hours must be cross-country, including one flight of at least 150 km with a landing at a different airport.
During training, you must also operate at controlled airports.
Examination
The practical test takes place at the end of your training. The examiner will assess your flight planning, pre-flight checks, flying skills, and your ability to safely operate the aircraft in emergencies. The check ride typically lasts about 60 minutes.
Costs
The cost of pilot training varies depending on flight school and aircraft type. The average total cost ranges from €6,000 to €15,000. Use our cost calculator to estimate your individual training expenses.
Training Path
Medical Class (LAPL) or Medical Class 2
The medical certificate should be obtained before the training starts.
Theory Training
The theory training consists of 9 subjects. It usually takes 85 hours of self-study.
Practice on PilotExamRadio Operator's Certificate
The radio certificate should be obtained before the training starts.
Practice on PilotExamFirst Flight
Basic flight maneuvers and aircraft control.
Solo Flight
First solo flight without a flight instructor.
Practical Exam
The completion of your pilot training.
Getting the License
Congratulations, you made it!
License Comparison
| License | 🛩️Private Pilot License (PPL-A) | 🛩️Light Aircraft Pilot License (LAPL-A) | 🛩️Sport Pilot License (SPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirements | |||
| Min. Age | 17 | 17 | 16 |
| Min. Flight Hours | 45 | 30 | 15 (Glider) / 30 (Motor glider/UL) |
| Medical Class | Class 2 | Class 2 | Class 2 |
| Radio Operator's Certificate | Radio Operator's Certificate | Radio Operator's Certificate | Radio Operator's Certificate |
| Capabilities | |||
| Max. Take-Off Weight | Unlimited | 2,000 kg | 600 kg |
| Passenger Rating | Yes | After 10 hours | After 10 hours |
| Validity | Worldwide | Europe | National / Recognized in the EU |
| Cost | |||
| Total | 10.000€ - 25.000€ | 6.000€ - 15.000€ | 3.000€ - 8.000€ |
Frequently asked questions
* The prices are approximate estimates and may vary depending on the flight school and aircraft type. The data is provided without any warranty.