Learn to Fly

Many people think that learning to fly is something for a select group of individuals, or something beyond their capabilities. Whilst this may be the case for flying the latest generation of fast military jet, piloting a light aircraft is something within the capabilities of most people.

If you are even remotely interested in learning to fly, whether simply for pleasure or as a career the first thing you should do is book a no obligation trial flight. At the end of this you will know whether it is for you.

If you decide to learn to fly the first thing you will work towards is the Private Pilots Licence (PPL). On completion you are able to hire an aircraft and go flying, taking your friends and family if you wish. For many people this is enough and they go on to enjoy many years of flying.

For those wanting a further challenge there is the option of completing a mountain flying course, obtaining a rating in some of our other aircraft or even doing an aerobatics rating.

If you want to go on to become a career pilot then you will need to complete a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). With a CPL you then have job opportunities open to you in scenic flight operations, private charter companies, parachute dropping, glider towing, corporate pilots, agricultural flying or being an instructor. Those completing a CPL with the Wakatipu Aero Club will then (providing they satisfy our requirements) generally be offered the opportunity of flying for our commercial arm Air Wakatipu. These pilots are given extensive on-going training that is very sought-after by other operators on the field or nationwide.

If you are interested in ether a PPL or CPL please feel free to contact us. You may find a more detailed information pack useful.

See also:

• Recommendations
• CAA booklet: How to be a Pilot http://www.caa.govt.nz/safety_info/How_tos/How_to_be_a_Pilot.pdf
• CAA information re medical certificates: http://www.caa.govt.nz/medical/medical_home.htm