Newbie & Flying Training Advice (Merged)
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 302
Likes: 39
I would get a CTA endorsement as soon as you can and spend time doing navs and trips to prepare for CPL. Get an instructor to do a nav with you to show you what is expected and work towards that. More time in the machine you will do your test in the better. I’ve generally found 15-20 hours is needed to get up to CPL standard if the student has been pushing themselves during their hour building, more if they’ve spent most the time doing circuits and flying in the training area.
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 37
Likes: 12
From: G.S.L.
Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north Go up north!
Nobody asked a question but I need a platform to let this out. After hearing and speaking to a lot of CPL students and graduates it's disappointing to hear their plans post CPL. Furthermore the answer to a lot of the questions in this thread and a lot of the new questions will be answered with ^.
- Go up north doesn't mean fly into Darwin for a week then fly home disappointed and complain about no jobs
- Go up north doesn't mean go up to Queensland
- Go up north doesn't mean sit in the city, call/email every GA operator and obsess over the hour requirements on their website. Front the F up with a paper resume!
- Yes, go north means to sacrifice your life in the city close to family and friends. Wtf did you think you were gonna do when you signed up to do your licence?
- Go up north applies regardless of worldwide situation. Economy munted? Go up north. Pandemic? Go up north.
Nobody asked a question but I need a platform to let this out. After hearing and speaking to a lot of CPL students and graduates it's disappointing to hear their plans post CPL. Furthermore the answer to a lot of the questions in this thread and a lot of the new questions will be answered with ^.
- Go up north doesn't mean fly into Darwin for a week then fly home disappointed and complain about no jobs
- Go up north doesn't mean go up to Queensland
- Go up north doesn't mean sit in the city, call/email every GA operator and obsess over the hour requirements on their website. Front the F up with a paper resume!
- Yes, go north means to sacrifice your life in the city close to family and friends. Wtf did you think you were gonna do when you signed up to do your licence?
- Go up north applies regardless of worldwide situation. Economy munted? Go up north. Pandemic? Go up north.
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: Wollongong
Wollongong Flight Schools
Hi,
I'm interested in getting a RPL/PPL for pure GA (personal) purposes. I'm located in Wollongong and there are two flight schools here it seems - a Five Point Aviation and NSW Air Flight Training. I haven't been able to find out much about the former, and the latter garnered some pretty bad rep when it was managed by the previous administration. Nonetheless, it seems like NSW Air has new management in and I do wonder if they've cleaned up their act.
Does anyone have any particular recommendation or experience with these two schools?
I'm interested in getting a RPL/PPL for pure GA (personal) purposes. I'm located in Wollongong and there are two flight schools here it seems - a Five Point Aviation and NSW Air Flight Training. I haven't been able to find out much about the former, and the latter garnered some pretty bad rep when it was managed by the previous administration. Nonetheless, it seems like NSW Air has new management in and I do wonder if they've cleaned up their act.
Does anyone have any particular recommendation or experience with these two schools?
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Sydney
RPL vs PPL and Help with Flying School - Sydney
Note to the mods - Please don't merge this with an existing thread as its hard to get the relevant replies
Hi guys,
I hope all of you and your loved ones are safe.
Like most of us I always wanted to fly and pursue flying as a career. But unfortunately that didn't work out (my IQ, finances, nationality, age, etc.)
But I refuse to die before doing at least 1 solo and ideally renting an airplane and fly to Gold coast with my partner and our puppy.
So I have decided to pursue flying as a hobby. My questions are -
1. What is the difference between a RPL and PPL?
I couldn't figure out the difference on the websites of flying schools. My end goal is to be able to rent an airplane and fly around Australia with my partner.
2. Can I do PPL without RPL. Reason for asking is it will be great to leave option open for CPL. Who knows my Crypto investments get x100 returns and I can retire early with tonnes of cash
3. I live and work in Sydney. Relocating is not an option. Which are the top 3 flying schools I should reach out to. Please send me a PM if this is not allowed to be discussed on the open forum.
4. I am 39 years old and assuming that this should not be a showstopper for RPL or PPL
Looking forward for your help and support.
Thank you,
Kind regards.
Hi guys,
I hope all of you and your loved ones are safe.
Like most of us I always wanted to fly and pursue flying as a career. But unfortunately that didn't work out (my IQ, finances, nationality, age, etc.)
But I refuse to die before doing at least 1 solo and ideally renting an airplane and fly to Gold coast with my partner and our puppy.
So I have decided to pursue flying as a hobby. My questions are -
1. What is the difference between a RPL and PPL?
I couldn't figure out the difference on the websites of flying schools. My end goal is to be able to rent an airplane and fly around Australia with my partner.
2. Can I do PPL without RPL. Reason for asking is it will be great to leave option open for CPL. Who knows my Crypto investments get x100 returns and I can retire early with tonnes of cash
3. I live and work in Sydney. Relocating is not an option. Which are the top 3 flying schools I should reach out to. Please send me a PM if this is not allowed to be discussed on the open forum.
4. I am 39 years old and assuming that this should not be a showstopper for RPL or PPL
Looking forward for your help and support.
Thank you,
Kind regards.
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 314
Likes: 7
From: BNE, Australia
Short answer is if you want to fly around Australia you'll want a PPL. RPL has cross country endorsements but realistically there are too many restrictions to make it a practical choice to circumnavigate the country.
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 190
Likes: 62
From: Aus
Welcome.
1. In short, there are three licence types common to recreational flyers:
The first is RA-Aus certificate, which is not issued by CASA. It is a cheaper way to learn to fly but there are some restrictions. You are limited to one passenger. Not recognised internationally either. RA-Aus are a self-administering body that you have to be a member of.
The second is the CASA Part 61 RPL. It is similar to a PPL, but with some restrictions. It is also, as far as I'm aware, not recognised internationally. So if you wanted to fly in the USA they don't recognise this licence type.
The third is the CASA Part 61 PPL. The minimum hours required is higher than an RPL, but the privileges are greater. If you fly internationally it will be recognised as a private licence equivalent.
Your goal of flying around Australia can be done on any of the above types, although you will need navigation, controlled airport, and controlled airspace endorsements unless you hold a PPL.
2. You sure can. You don't need to do the RPL theory exam or flight test if you then go on to do the PPL theory exam and flight test, although the minimum aeronautical experience to sit the PPL flight test is higher than the RPL.
3. Google is your friend. Avoid anywhere where you have to pay up front. Interview the flight instructor and if you're not happy, don't spend your money there - it's a lot, after all!If you're on the northside, I'd strongly recommend the ~1 hour drive to Central Coast Aero Club - uncrowded airspace, good fleet, experienced instructors.
4. Your age is no problem. Don't give up on your career dreams either! Whilst it doesn't get any easier with age, many people have changed careers in the late thirties, fourties, and later to fly professionally. It can be done, it's just a slog. But you also bring life experience which many very young, very green CPL grads lack...
Good luck!
1. In short, there are three licence types common to recreational flyers:
The first is RA-Aus certificate, which is not issued by CASA. It is a cheaper way to learn to fly but there are some restrictions. You are limited to one passenger. Not recognised internationally either. RA-Aus are a self-administering body that you have to be a member of.
The second is the CASA Part 61 RPL. It is similar to a PPL, but with some restrictions. It is also, as far as I'm aware, not recognised internationally. So if you wanted to fly in the USA they don't recognise this licence type.
The third is the CASA Part 61 PPL. The minimum hours required is higher than an RPL, but the privileges are greater. If you fly internationally it will be recognised as a private licence equivalent.
Your goal of flying around Australia can be done on any of the above types, although you will need navigation, controlled airport, and controlled airspace endorsements unless you hold a PPL.
2. You sure can. You don't need to do the RPL theory exam or flight test if you then go on to do the PPL theory exam and flight test, although the minimum aeronautical experience to sit the PPL flight test is higher than the RPL.
3. Google is your friend. Avoid anywhere where you have to pay up front. Interview the flight instructor and if you're not happy, don't spend your money there - it's a lot, after all!If you're on the northside, I'd strongly recommend the ~1 hour drive to Central Coast Aero Club - uncrowded airspace, good fleet, experienced instructors.
4. Your age is no problem. Don't give up on your career dreams either! Whilst it doesn't get any easier with age, many people have changed careers in the late thirties, fourties, and later to fly professionally. It can be done, it's just a slog. But you also bring life experience which many very young, very green CPL grads lack...
Good luck!
Joined: Mar 2008
Aviation Qualifications: PPL
Posts: 81
Likes: 7
From: Australia
Avoid anywhere where you have to pay up front. Interview the flight instructor and if you're not happy, don't spend your money there - it's a lot, after all! If you're on the northside, I'd strongly recommend the ~1 hour drive to Central Coast Aero Club - uncrowded airspace, good fleet, experienced instructors.
But I would respectfully disagree with the last part. Learning at a busy capital city airport like Bankstown sets you up well to handle busy / complex airspace and procedures for the future. If you're planning to travel around the country you will inevitably come across these scenarios and having spent all your training time in that environment will make you a lot more comfortable. I fully appreciate the points Magnum has made but from my own experience, think Bankstown would be a better bet. All a matter of opinion though.
Best of luck though. Learning to fly is a fantastic experience.
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 190
Likes: 62
From: Aus
Flyer517, I'm glad we can have a healthy debate. 
I've flown in/at BK plenty of times on navexes.
I think the downside to Bankstown is that you often spend far too long waiting on the ground. For the benefit of the OP, if the engine is on - you're paying! Long wait times at the holding point are problematic.
I agree that getting comfortable in CTA at a busy class D is not necessarily a bad thing. That said, I find it amusing how many people who have learned to fly at a Class D airfield struggle when they go to a busy CTAF!
I've flown in/at BK plenty of times on navexes.
I think the downside to Bankstown is that you often spend far too long waiting on the ground. For the benefit of the OP, if the engine is on - you're paying! Long wait times at the holding point are problematic.
I agree that getting comfortable in CTA at a busy class D is not necessarily a bad thing. That said, I find it amusing how many people who have learned to fly at a Class D airfield struggle when they go to a busy CTAF!
Joined: Feb 2017
Aviation Qualifications: CPL
Posts: 545
Likes: 190
From: Sydney
If you are closer to south side of Sydney, Camden is a good option. It is class D so you get CTA experience but the aerodrome is in the middle of the training area so it minimises transit time and typical taxi/hold times are usually much shorter than Bankstown.
When checking schools, visit and see how comfortable you are with them and perhaps book a TIF (trial instructional flight) to give them a try. One bit of advice I would also give, if a school asks for pre-payment for training or offer fixed price training, be wary.
When checking schools, visit and see how comfortable you are with them and perhaps book a TIF (trial instructional flight) to give them a try. One bit of advice I would also give, if a school asks for pre-payment for training or offer fixed price training, be wary.
Joined: Mar 2005
Aviation Qualifications: Military
Posts: 6,562
Likes: 952
From: Aus
One bit of advice I would also give, if a school asks for pre-payment for training or offer fixed price training, be wary
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: Brisbane
Which path to take?
Hi all. New here and hoping I've found a new online home!
I am just about to (re)start on my piloting journey and am trying to decide whether to jump straight in onto a CPL path or stick with the PPL path. Deciding to do my CPL now, at the beginning, would work out a little cheaper in the long run.
My main goal, like anyone here I'd imagine, is to just be in the air as much as possible. I don't necessarily want to become a commercial pilot but I do want to find any reason I can to be flying once I have my licence.
I know that I can buy a share in a plane and/or hire one once I have my licence but would it be more economical to go with my CPL and get a part time job that would involve flying?
I know that most answers will be opinion based but its those opinions based on experience that will help me decide. Thanks in advance
I am just about to (re)start on my piloting journey and am trying to decide whether to jump straight in onto a CPL path or stick with the PPL path. Deciding to do my CPL now, at the beginning, would work out a little cheaper in the long run.
My main goal, like anyone here I'd imagine, is to just be in the air as much as possible. I don't necessarily want to become a commercial pilot but I do want to find any reason I can to be flying once I have my licence.
I know that I can buy a share in a plane and/or hire one once I have my licence but would it be more economical to go with my CPL and get a part time job that would involve flying?
I know that most answers will be opinion based but its those opinions based on experience that will help me decide. Thanks in advance
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: Sydney
Sydney Flight School recommendations
Hi, newbie here,
I'm 51 and an interested in getting RPL or PPL on weekends for just recreational purposes.
I live in Sydney's east so Bankstown would be my closest option - could consider Camden, but is is nearly 90mins away.
Please offer up your recommendations for flight schools and anything else I should consider along the way, such any medical issues for my age etc
I'm happy with PM's or replies here - what ever is most appropriate.
nice to be part of this community - thanks
reynos
I'm 51 and an interested in getting RPL or PPL on weekends for just recreational purposes.
I live in Sydney's east so Bankstown would be my closest option - could consider Camden, but is is nearly 90mins away.
Please offer up your recommendations for flight schools and anything else I should consider along the way, such any medical issues for my age etc
I'm happy with PM's or replies here - what ever is most appropriate.
nice to be part of this community - thanks
reynos
Joined: Jun 2018
Posts: 52
Likes: 1
From: Melbourne
Hi folks,
So I have read what feels like a million posts trying to determine what the best flight schools are in the Melbourne/ Vic area.
They have all meshed into some sort of abstract art in my head and unfortunately some of the posts are older and no longer relevant.
Could someone shed some light on schools that offer Vet Fee-Help for CPL Diploma courses? The current options seem to be Learn to Fly, RVAC and AAPA. We then have the degree options with RMIT, Swinburne (CAE) and CQU (MFS). Learn to Fly seem to have a good program and a new partnership with Griffith University but some older posts have not exactly rated them highly. Anyone recently experienced these schools and have any thoughts?
So I have read what feels like a million posts trying to determine what the best flight schools are in the Melbourne/ Vic area.
They have all meshed into some sort of abstract art in my head and unfortunately some of the posts are older and no longer relevant.
Could someone shed some light on schools that offer Vet Fee-Help for CPL Diploma courses? The current options seem to be Learn to Fly, RVAC and AAPA. We then have the degree options with RMIT, Swinburne (CAE) and CQU (MFS). Learn to Fly seem to have a good program and a new partnership with Griffith University but some older posts have not exactly rated them highly. Anyone recently experienced these schools and have any thoughts?
Joined: Feb 2019
Posts: 76
Likes: 0
From: YMML
Hi folks,
So I have read what feels like a million posts trying to determine what the best flight schools are in the Melbourne/ Vic area.
They have all meshed into some sort of abstract art in my head and unfortunately some of the posts are older and no longer relevant.
Could someone shed some light on schools that offer Vet Fee-Help for CPL Diploma courses? The current options seem to be Learn to Fly, RVAC and AAPA. We then have the degree options with RMIT, Swinburne (CAE) and CQU (MFS). Learn to Fly seem to have a good program and a new partnership with Griffith University but some older posts have not exactly rated them highly. Anyone recently experienced these schools and have any thoughts?
So I have read what feels like a million posts trying to determine what the best flight schools are in the Melbourne/ Vic area.
They have all meshed into some sort of abstract art in my head and unfortunately some of the posts are older and no longer relevant.
Could someone shed some light on schools that offer Vet Fee-Help for CPL Diploma courses? The current options seem to be Learn to Fly, RVAC and AAPA. We then have the degree options with RMIT, Swinburne (CAE) and CQU (MFS). Learn to Fly seem to have a good program and a new partnership with Griffith University but some older posts have not exactly rated them highly. Anyone recently experienced these schools and have any thoughts?
Joined: Nov 2019
Posts: 28
Likes: 3
From: AYQ
Joined: Feb 2019
Posts: 76
Likes: 0
From: YMML
From what I understand LTF have only just recently started offering fee help loans, and the course descriptor on their website doesn't mention what aircraft you'll be flying. So while all the pictures in the brochure show the DA40/42 I suspect you'll find yourself in the 172s and Seminoles. RVAC is quite well regarded but their fleet is on the older side, and they're more expensive than LTF. AAPA are up in Wagga so a bit harder to compare directly.
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Sydney
Hi, newbie here,
I'm 51 and an interested in getting RPL or PPL on weekends for just recreational purposes.
I live in Sydney's east so Bankstown would be my closest option - could consider Camden, but is is nearly 90mins away.
Please offer up your recommendations for flight schools and anything else I should consider along the way, such any medical issues for my age etc
I'm happy with PM's or replies here - what ever is most appropriate.
nice to be part of this community - thanks
reynos
I'm 51 and an interested in getting RPL or PPL on weekends for just recreational purposes.
I live in Sydney's east so Bankstown would be my closest option - could consider Camden, but is is nearly 90mins away.
Please offer up your recommendations for flight schools and anything else I should consider along the way, such any medical issues for my age etc
I'm happy with PM's or replies here - what ever is most appropriate.
nice to be part of this community - thanks
reynos
I am almost in the same boat and scouting for schools. Can I PM you and maybe we can pursue it together. We might end up negotiating a better deal on training plus can support each other along the way.
Please let me know.
Thank you,
Kind regards.
Prashant
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Sydney
Welcome.
1. In short, there are three licence types common to recreational flyers:
The first is RA-Aus certificate, which is not issued by CASA. It is a cheaper way to learn to fly but there are some restrictions. You are limited to one passenger. Not recognised internationally either. RA-Aus are a self-administering body that you have to be a member of.
The second is the CASA Part 61 RPL. It is similar to a PPL, but with some restrictions. It is also, as far as I'm aware, not recognised internationally. So if you wanted to fly in the USA they don't recognise this licence type.
The third is the CASA Part 61 PPL. The minimum hours required is higher than an RPL, but the privileges are greater. If you fly internationally it will be recognised as a private licence equivalent.
Your goal of flying around Australia can be done on any of the above types, although you will need navigation, controlled airport, and controlled airspace endorsements unless you hold a PPL.
2. You sure can. You don't need to do the RPL theory exam or flight test if you then go on to do the PPL theory exam and flight test, although the minimum aeronautical experience to sit the PPL flight test is higher than the RPL.
3. Google is your friend. Avoid anywhere where you have to pay up front. Interview the flight instructor and if you're not happy, don't spend your money there - it's a lot, after all!If you're on the northside, I'd strongly recommend the ~1 hour drive to Central Coast Aero Club - uncrowded airspace, good fleet, experienced instructors.
4. Your age is no problem. Don't give up on your career dreams either! Whilst it doesn't get any easier with age, many people have changed careers in the late thirties, fourties, and later to fly professionally. It can be done, it's just a slog. But you also bring life experience which many very young, very green CPL grads lack...
Good luck!
1. In short, there are three licence types common to recreational flyers:
The first is RA-Aus certificate, which is not issued by CASA. It is a cheaper way to learn to fly but there are some restrictions. You are limited to one passenger. Not recognised internationally either. RA-Aus are a self-administering body that you have to be a member of.
The second is the CASA Part 61 RPL. It is similar to a PPL, but with some restrictions. It is also, as far as I'm aware, not recognised internationally. So if you wanted to fly in the USA they don't recognise this licence type.
The third is the CASA Part 61 PPL. The minimum hours required is higher than an RPL, but the privileges are greater. If you fly internationally it will be recognised as a private licence equivalent.
Your goal of flying around Australia can be done on any of the above types, although you will need navigation, controlled airport, and controlled airspace endorsements unless you hold a PPL.
2. You sure can. You don't need to do the RPL theory exam or flight test if you then go on to do the PPL theory exam and flight test, although the minimum aeronautical experience to sit the PPL flight test is higher than the RPL.
3. Google is your friend. Avoid anywhere where you have to pay up front. Interview the flight instructor and if you're not happy, don't spend your money there - it's a lot, after all!If you're on the northside, I'd strongly recommend the ~1 hour drive to Central Coast Aero Club - uncrowded airspace, good fleet, experienced instructors.
4. Your age is no problem. Don't give up on your career dreams either! Whilst it doesn't get any easier with age, many people have changed careers in the late thirties, fourties, and later to fly professionally. It can be done, it's just a slog. But you also bring life experience which many very young, very green CPL grads lack...
Good luck!
Apologies for the late reply.
Thank you so much for such detailed reply. It is really helpful.
I have booked an introductory flight from Sydney Flying Academy to get a feel of the things. Will surely check out Central Coast Aero Club. I am in western Sydney so need to factor in the travel time.