Requirements And Restrictions Of A Private Pilot License (PPL)
In 2021, more than 24,000 Americans received their Private Pilot Licenses (PPL), proving just how many people want to take to the skies. Similar to a private driver's license, a PPL allows owners to fly a private plane independently. While many people assume that obtaining a PPL is out of reach for them, you may be surprised by how accessible it is to become a licensed pilot. Learn more about the PPL requirements and restrictions of the PPL.
Basic Requirements
In order to obtain a PPL, students must be at least 17 years of age and communicate effectively in English. The student must also disclose their medical history. If the medical history mentions epilepsy, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, psychosis, or addiction, the student may become disqualified. Some conditions, such as color blindness, don't disqualify a student but put stipulations on the license. For example, PPL recipients with color blindness can't fly at night.
Flying Experience
If a student's medical history gets approved, they can move on to the next stage, which involves taking classes through an authorized facility. During class, students will learn about airplanes and how they work. They will also get experience flying the plane through a simulator before flying a plane in real life.
For example, some of the tasks that must be completed in the pilot's chair of a plane to qualify for the license may include:
- 3 hours of flying internationally
- 3 hours of night flying over 100 miles
- 10 successful takeoffs and landings
- 10 hours of solo flying time
- 1 solo cross-country flight over 150 miles
Once the student completes every requirement, they can take the test to get their license.
PPL Restrictions
Getting a PPL creates freedom. However, there are certain restrictions on that freedom.
First, a PPL only permits recipients to fly private aircraft. People with a PPL cannot fly a commercial vehicle or get paid to fly. Citizens with a PPL may fly commercial airplanes for charity, though. They may also serve as the secondary pilot of a commercial vehicle when necessary.
PPL recipients are also limited to the type of aircraft mentioned on their license. For example, a PPL for an airplane doesn't allow the holder to fly helicopters. If you have questions about what planes you can fly with your PPL, ask your teacher for clarification.
To learn more about how to get your pilot license, look for a private pilot course today.