Originally Posted by
pjharb
1) Is it in fact cheaper?
2) Would I eventually need to convert the FAA PPL to an EASA PPL?
3) Can I do the CAA Initial Class 1 here before I go? Or do I need to complete an FAA Initial Class 1 in the US?
4) I looked at getting an EASA PPL in the USA just because the weather is better and I would rather be there, but the flyaaa flight school in San Diego has some pretty bad reviews. Can you recommend an EASA flight school in the US?
5) If I get an EASA PPL here in the UK, how can I hour-build later on in the USA if I need an FAA PPL to do that?
Thanks a lot for your help and apologies for the nooby questions. :-)
You're more then welcome.
1. NO, not cheaper if you just do your Private. Maybe a little quicker but not cheaper.
Consider visa fees, accommodations and travel cost.
So for just 40-45 hours it will probably be a wash.
Substantial savings (can) come in if you fly more, Private and Instrument rating or even to Commercial depending on what your goals are.
2. Depending on what your goals are.
For EASA Private you'll need to take the written exams and a flight test, you can do this back home.
3. you don't need a First Class for just a Private, if you plan to continue then yes and yes.
4. DO NOT and I'll explain why. There are only 3-4(?) EASA "certified" schools in the US and they all have a spotty reputation to say the least.
In comparison you have a couple of hundred FAA Flight schools that are authorized to train foreign students which means you have much more choice.
5. Yes, but that is an easy validation if you go from EASA>FAA PPL. Process is easy but may take up to 90 days so do not delay in the application.
If your plan is to train towards a EASA "frozen" ATPL I would suggest you do 0-FAA CPL in the USA in about 6 months then bury yourself and pass the 14 EASA ATPL exams and do a license conversion.