The thought of flying an aeroplane yourself captures many people's imagination. Before taking the controls, however, you must choose a training route. Selecting the right licence comes down to one simple question: do you plan to fly as a hobby, or do you see your professional future in aviation? This article compares the three main types of licence – PPL(A), CPL(A) and ATPL(A) – and helps you match a course to your goal. If you are just starting and first want to understand the requirements, medical examination and successive steps, begin with our article how to become an aeroplane pilot – step by step. We also explain the step-by-step route from private to commercial pilot so that you can make an informed decision.
PPL(A): a universal passport for air travel
The option most often chosen by people who fly worldwide without payment is the Private Pilot Licence, or PPL(A). It is the first and most important step towards flying an aeroplane independently. It meets all international ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards and allows you to fly around the world. It permits you to operate aeroplanes weighing up to 5,700 kg on non-commercial flights and provides a sound foundation for further flight training. Thanks to its international recognition, the PPL(A) licence acts as an aviation passport, allowing you to plan and make flights independently across the continent. We explain the requirements, training and costs of this stage in our complete guide to the PPL(A) licence.
CPL(A): the first step towards a career in aviation
The Commercial Pilot Licence, CPL (A), opens the door to employment in aviation. Like the PPL(A), it complies with ICAO standards and is therefore recognised internationally. It allows you to act as pilot in command on commercial single-pilot operations or to work as a First Officer. Obtaining a CPL (A) requires a PPL(A) and at least 200 hours of flight time. It symbolically crosses the boundary between passion and profession, turning a love of flying into a responsible career.
ATPL(A): the airline captain's licence
The highest level of pilot qualification is the Airline Transport Pilot Licence, known as ATPL (A). It fully complies with ICAO standards and is recognised worldwide as the benchmark for airline pilots. It is required, among other things, to act as the pilot in command (Captain) of a multi-pilot aircraft. The route begins by passing the theory exams at the Polish Civil Aviation Authority, producing the so-called ‘frozen ATPL(A)’, and ends after reaching 1,500 hours of flight time. It is the culmination of years of training and experience. In this way, the ATPL (A) licence becomes evidence of the highest level of skill and professionalism in aviation.
What does the route to a professional licence look like in practice?
The route from amateur to professional pilot has several stages. If your goal is an airline, our comparison of the modular and integrated routes – including time, costs and VAT – is available in the article how to become an airline pilot. After obtaining a PPL(A), the first task is to build flight time. You must independently log at least 100 hours as pilot in command. While gaining this experience, you also enrol on ATPL(A) ground school. At the same time, you can earn a VFR Night rating and, after logging 70 hours as pilot in command, begin multi-engine training MEPL(A). Passing all ATPL(A) theory exams at the Polish Civil Aviation Authority is a prerequisite for beginning IR(A) training, the rating that allows flight without visual reference to the ground.
Choose the VENTUM AIR course that meets your goals
Your choice of licence should depend on your goals. Are you thinking about leisure flying or a professional career? Either way, your journey should begin with a PPL(A). It is the foundation on which you can stop and enjoy recreational flights, or build a further career. If you plan to work professionally in aviation, your route will have several stages, including additional hour building and further theory exams. Each route requires commitment and a budget; indicative costs for each licence are set out in our article how much does a pilot licence cost. At Ventum Air, you can complete every stage from PPL(A) towards ATPL(A) within one organisation, without changing schools midway. Have more questions or want details? Contact us at Ventum Air. We will help you choose training that matches your goals and plan your future in aviation.