Don't forget that you can use elcas tier 1 and 2 claims towards civil flying training. So if you've served for more than 8 yrs, 2 elcas claims either side of April will put 4k towards any course. Also investigate the raf flying clubs; some will offer the initial ppl instruction at about 100 pounds per hour including instruction, and 80 pounds an hour solo. That's about as cheap as anywhere abroad.