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Abbeyshrule Aerodrome, Longford, Ireland N39 N8K5

044 935 7468


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PPL (Private Pilot Licence)

The Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is the most popular general aviation licence and is ideal for those who want more flexibility, aircraft privileges, and international flying opportunities. Issued under EASA Part-FCL, the PPL allows you to fly as Pilot in Command (PIC) of a wider range of aircraft, and serves as the foundation for further professional pilot training.


Privileges

  • Act as Pilot in Command of single-engine piston (SEP) aircraft within EASA states and beyond (subject to licence validation).
  • Carry passengers without remuneration (non-commercial flights).
  • Eligible to add ratings and endorsements, such as Night Rating, Instrument Rating (IR), Multi-Engine (ME), etc.
  • Serves as the entry requirement for modular commercial training (e.g. CPL, ATPL).


Prerequisites

  • Be at least 17 years old to hold the licence (training may begin earlier).
  • Hold a valid EASA Class 2 Medical Certificate (Required before first solo).
  • Demonstrate English language proficiency (ICAO Level 4 or higher).  (Required before first solo)


Course Overview

The PPL(A) course offers a comprehensive introduction to aviation, preparing students for private flying and future progression to commercial training. The minimum flight training requirements under EASA regulations are:


45 hours total flight time, including a minimum of:

  • 25 hours of dual instruction with an instructor.
  • 10 hours of supervised solo flight time, including:
  • 5 hours of solo cross-country flying.
  • One solo cross-country flight of at least 270 km (150 NM), with full stop landings at two other aerodromes.


In addition, students must complete:

  • A theoretical knowledge course and pass 9 written exams.
  • A skills test with an EASA-authorised examiner.

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Night Rating (NR)

The Night Rating is an excellent addition for any private pilot looking to expand their flying capabilities and flexibility. It allows you to operate under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) at night, enhancing both your skills and safety, particularly in the shorter daylight hours of the Irish winter.


Privileges

  • Fly at night under VFR as Pilot in Command.
  • Extend your flying hours beyond daylight – ideal for travel or training flexibility.
  • A mandatory requirement for those planning to pursue a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) or Instrument Rating (IR).


Note: The Night Rating does not permit instrument flight; it is strictly VFR.


Prerequisites

  • Hold a valid PPL(A) or LAPL(A) (note: Night Rating privileges on LAPL are subject to aircraft and pilot restrictions).
  • Hold a valid EASA medical certificate (Class 2 minimum for PPL).


Course Overview

The Night Rating course is concise but essential, focusing on safe operations in reduced visibility and unfamiliar lighting conditions. The minimum training requirements under EASA regulations are:


  • 5 hours of night flight training, including:
  • 3 hours of dual instruction at night.
  • 1 hour of dual cross-country navigation.
  • 5 solo take-offs and 5 solo full-stop landings at night.


No written exam or skills test is required for the Night Rating. Once the instructor is satisfied with your performance, the rating is added to your licence.


The night rating is done in the winter months when the days are shorter. It can be completed in one evenings landing at Sligo, Shannon and Waterford and requires an overnight stay at an away airport.


Ready to start? No more excuses

Call us now on 091 800 800

or WhatsApp us here

Aerobatic Rating

The Aerobatic Rating opens the door to an exciting and advanced area of aviation. Whether you're pursuing sport flying, airshows, or simply looking to improve your aircraft handling and confidence, this rating allows you to perform aerobatic manoeuvres safely and legally in appropriately certified aircraft.


Privileges

  • Perform a wide range of aerobatic manoeuvres, including loops, rolls, spins, and stall turns.
  • Train and fly aerobatics solo or with passengers (non-commercial).
  • A valuable skill-builder for pilots seeking enhanced aircraft control, situational awareness, and handling in unusual attitudes.


Prerequisites

  • Hold at least a valid PPL(A).
  • Have completed a minimum of 40 hours of flight time as PIC in aeroplanes after licence issue.
  • Hold a valid EASA medical certificate (Class 2 minimum).
  • No aerobatic or tailwheel experience required!


Course Overview

The Aerobatic Rating course focuses on developing safe, progressive aerobatic skills through structured dual instruction. The minimum training requirements under EASA are:


  • At least 5 hours of aerobatic flight training, or alternatively:
  • 20 aerobatic flights, if hours-based tracking is not used.


Training includes instruction in:

  • Stall turns, barrel rolls, loops, rolls, spins, and recovery techniques.
  • Proper use of G-forces, energy management, and situational awareness.


There is no written exam or skills test for the Aerobatic Rating. Once your instructor deems you competent and the course is complete, the rating can be endorsed in your licence.


You will complete your Aerobatic course in our 2017 Extra 330LX, an exhilarating 2 seater aerobatic plane. Aerobatic instruction is also available in our Stampe SV4 but does not count towards a EASA aerobatic rating as it isan Annex 2 aircraft which does not require an aerobatic rating.


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Tailwheel Endorsement

Flying a tailwheel aircraft (sometimes called "conventional gear" aircraft) is a rewarding challenge that sharpens your stick-and-rudder skills and deepens your understanding of aircraft handling. This endorsement is required to legally act as Pilot in Command of tailwheel-equipped aircraft and is a great way to build precision flying experience.


Privileges

  • Fly aircraft fitted with a tailwheel landing gear configuration.
  • Access a wider range of vintage, aerobatic, bush, and high-performance aircraft.


Improve your rudder coordination, landing technique, and ground handling skills.

Tailwheel aircraft have different takeoff and landing characteristics than tricycle gear aircraft, requiring specialised training.


Prerequisites

  • Hold at least a valid LAPL(A) or higher.
  • Hold a valid EASA medical certificate (Class 2 minimum).


Course Overview

The Tailwheel Endorsement course is focused on handling the unique characteristics of tailwheel aircraft, particularly during takeoff, landing, and ground operations. There is no fixed minimum training time under EASA; instead, the course is competency-based and typically includes:


  • 5 to 10 hours of dual flight instruction (varies based on experience and progress).


Key training elements:


  • Three-point and wheel landings
  • Crosswind takeoffs and landings
  • Ground loop prevention and directional control
  • Aircraft handling at slow speeds and during taxiing


There is no exam or flight test. Once your instructor is confident in your ability to safely operate a tailwheel aircraft, the endorsement is recorded in your logbook.


We have multiple aircraft types available to complete your tailwheel training in.


Ready to start? No more excuses

Call us now on 091 800 800

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Aircraft Rental

Already a licensed pilot and looking to keep your skills sharp or enjoy the freedom of flight? Our aircraft rental service offers well-maintained, fully insured aircraft for solo or passenger flights. Whether you're planning a scenic trip, brushing up on your flying, or building hours towards your next qualification, we've got you covered.



  • Rent and fly our school fleet as Pilot in Command
  • Take passengers on private flights within Ireland and beyond.
  • Log hours towards currency, licence renewal, or future ratings.


Requirements

  • Hold a valid PPL(A), LAPL(A), or higher licence.
  • Hold a current and valid EASA medical certificate (Class 2 or LAPL, depending on licence).
  • Completion of a check flight with one of our instructors is required before solo rental.


Rental Options

We offer a range of aircraft to suit different experience levels and mission types, including:

  • Two-seat and four-seat single-engine aircraft
  • Tailwheel and aerobatic aircraft (if endorsed) subject to experience / additional training in type


Pay by the hour or ask for discounted rates when buying block hours.


Once you are checked out you can book aircraft via our online booking platform.


Ready to start? No more excuses

Call us now on 091 800 800

or WhatsApp us here