How to become a Pilot

The first step in learning to fly involves taking a trial flight.  This introduces the new student to the aviation environment in a relaxed and informal manner.  It also allows you to meet the instructors who are likely to do most of your training.

The first of many pilot licences available is the Private Pilot Licence which allows you to fly friends and family, but does not allow you to fly for hire or reward.  This licence also enables you to fly to licensed airfields within New Zealand.

Flight Training

Flight training is carried out in one of our two Cessna 152 trainers.  The training programme for the Private Pilot Licence is as follows:

50 Hours Minimum Flight Time including the following:
20 Hours Dual Instruction
20 Hours Solo Training

The above totals are to include:
10 Hours Cross Country Flying (Dual and Solo)
5 Hours Advanced Dual Instruction
5 Hours Dual Instrument Flying
5 Hours Night Flying (Optional)

Ground Theory

Theory for the Private Pilot Licence is divided into six separate written examinations as follows:

The New Plymouth Aero Club provides course material required for all of the subjects.  Tuition is available throughout the year from the club trained pilots, or the material maybe covered through self study.

Medical

Once the decision has been made to commence flight training it is advisable to undertake an aviation medical examination.  Dual flight training can be undertaken before obtaining a medical, however it is required before being sent solo.  Doing the medical as soon as possible means that uninterrupted flight training (other than by weather) can be maintained.

Courses

New Plymouth Aero Club offers the following courses:

Q Private Pilot (Aeroplane) - Theory Integrated Course

Q Commercial Pilot (Aeroplane)

Q Instrument Rating - Single or Multi-engine

Q Private Pilot / Commercial Pilot / Instrument (Aeroplane) *

Q Instructor Rating

Q Basic Gas Turbine

Note that the flying times taken to achieve the required licensing standards will vary with the individual.  The times shown are the minimum required only.

*  Due to unforeseen circumstances the course may be reduced or extended.

Student Loans & Allowances

New Plymouth Aero Club is approved by the Department of Education and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority for student loans and allowances to students enrolled in our integrated Private, Commerical, Instrument and Instructor Ground Course.

Contact us for a prospectus today !

What Next ?

Once you have obtained your Private Pilots Licence you may choose to enjoy the privileges of that licence or pursue further aviation goals.  The New Plymouth Aero Club offers a wide range of further training including:

Commercial Pilot Licence	Flight Instructor Rating
Instrument Rating	Night Flying
Multi-engine Rating	Aerobatics

Overseas Licenses

Our CFI is authorized to validate non New Zealand Pilots Licenses. Visit the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority website for more information: http://www.caa.govt.nz

Club Facilities

The New Plymouth Aero Club's club rooms are located at the New Plymouth Airport.  A fully licensed bar together with lounge are available to members.  The club operates a fleet of 5 single engine Cessna aircraft and 2 Piper twin engine aircraft.

Social Activities

The Club enjoys an active social scene with a wide range of activities.  These include:

Bi monthy lucky draws for up to 10 hours free flying
Trips to airshows around the country
Dinners	Mystery Flying Tours
Fishing Trips	Ski Trips
Parties

The Club also partakes in local and national flying competitions for all pilot levels.  These include:

Bombing	Local Navigation
Spot Landing	Instrument Flying
Circuits