The Dream of Flying: Which Pilot License Is Right for You? An Overview of Private Pilot Licenses in Europe

The dream of flying has fascinated humanity for centuries. Whether as a hobby, for career opportunities, or simply out of pure passion for technology—there are as many reasons to obtain a pilot license as there are possibilities that open up with it. General aviation offers many pathways for enthusiasts to fulfill this dream. But an important question arises early on: Which license is right for me?

In Europe—and especially in German-speaking countries—there are several different types of pilot licenses, each tailored to specific aircraft, purposes, and levels of experience. Whether you’re interested in ultralight aircraft, traditional sport planes, or even helicopters, your choice of license depends not just on the type of aircraft, but also on your available budget, intended use, and legal requirements.

This article highlights the four most popular types of private pilot licenses: the Private Pilot License for airplanes (PPL-A), for helicopters (PPL-H), the Light Aircraft Pilot License (LAPL), and the Sport Pilot License for ultralight aircraft (SPL). Each license comes with its own requirements, advantages, and disadvantages. This structured overview helps set realistic expectations and guides you toward an informed decision for your own aviation journey.

In addition to introducing these licenses, we answer key questions: Which license offers international flying privileges? What are the differences in training and costs? How does each license impact your future flying opportunities? The article also includes a comparison table and practical tips for further information.

🛩️ PPL-A: Private Pilot License for Airplanes

The PPL-A (Private Pilot Licence – Aeroplane) is one of the most widely held licenses in general aviation. It provides a solid foundation for private flying and offers many options for future expansions. The PPL-A is internationally recognized (ICAO-compliant), allowing you to fly single-engine airplanes by day under visual flight rules (VFR). It is especially attractive for those who want to travel regularly or fly abroad.

Training & Course Structure

Theoretical training covers at least 100 hours in subjects like aviation law, navigation, meteorology, human performance, and aerodynamics. This lays the groundwork for safe, legal flying. Practical flight training requires at least 45 flight hours, including at least 10 solo hours and 5 hours of cross-country flight. Typically, the course includes circuit training, navigation flights, emergency procedures, and radio communication practice.

Training can be done part-time or full-time. Many flight schools offer flexible programs to combine theory and practice efficiently. Some complete the training in a few months, while others take a year or longer.

Costs

Total costs generally range between €10,000 and €20,000. Prices vary depending on the flight school, region, and type of aircraft. Additional costs may include exam fees, the required Class 2 medical exam, learning materials, headsets, charts, and membership fees.

Privileges & Limitations

With the PPL-A, you can fly single-engine piston aircraft across Europe and internationally. The license does not permit commercial operations, but it can be extended with additional ratings, such as night flying (NVFR), instrument flight (IR), or more complex aircraft (e.g., retractable gear).

Note

The PPL-A is modular and can be expanded step by step—ideal for anyone who wants to develop their flying skills further or pursue a career as a professional pilot.

PPL-A Summary

The PPL-A offers maximum flexibility for both national and international flying. It is the best choice for ambitious private pilots looking for long-term opportunities.

🚁 PPL-H: Private Pilot License for Helicopters

The PPL-H (Private Pilot Licence – Helicopter) is perfect for those who want to experience the unique world of vertical flight. It’s aimed at people who wish to fly helicopters privately, whether for leisure, business, or as a foundation for a professional helicopter career.

Training & Course Structure

Theoretical content is similar to the PPL-A but tailored to helicopters, covering subjects like aviation law, navigation, meteorology, technology, and helicopter performance. Practical training includes at least 45 hours on a helicopter, with at least 10 hours solo, as well as maneuvers such as hovering, autorotation, emergency landings, and off-airport landings.

Controlling a helicopter is technically more demanding than flying airplanes, requiring intense concentration and coordination. Training also varies significantly between piston and turbine helicopters.

Costs

The PPL-H is among the most expensive private licenses, with costs ranging from €35,000 to €50,000. The type of helicopter, flight school, and location all influence pricing. Additional fees include medical exams, course materials, exams, and possible simulator sessions.

Privileges & Limitations

The PPL-H allows private, non-commercial flights with civilian helicopters, both nationally and internationally. Commercial operations (like sightseeing flights or air taxi services) are not permitted but can be enabled by progressing to a CPL-H (Commercial Pilot Licence – Helicopter).

Note

If you plan to work as a helicopter pilot (e.g., for police, rescue, or offshore operations), the PPL-H provides the foundation for further licenses and advanced training.

PPL-H Summary

The PPL-H opens up unique opportunities in private aviation and is especially appealing for technically-minded and adventurous individuals who want to master helicopter flying in various scenarios. Despite the high costs, it offers unmatched experiences for both leisure and professional pilots.

🛩️ LAPL: Light Aircraft Pilot Licence

The LAPL (Light Aircraft Pilot Licence) is a pan-European license for flying light aircraft up to a maximum take-off weight of 2,000 kg. Introduced as a simpler, more affordable alternative to the PPL-A, the LAPL targets leisure pilots who primarily wish to fly within European airspace. This license is particularly popular among beginners due to its lower bureaucratic and financial barriers while still ensuring solid pilot training.

Training & Course Structure

Theoretical training for the LAPL is similar to the PPL-A, but typically requires fewer hours and can be completed in more compact courses. Key topics include aviation law, navigation, flight planning, meteorology, human performance, aircraft technology, and handling special situations. Practical training requires a minimum of 30 flight hours, including 6 hours solo and at least one 150 km cross-country flight with a landing at a different airfield.

Many flight schools offer flexible schedules, including weekend courses and block lessons, making it easy to train alongside a full-time job.

Costs

With total costs between €6,000 and €15,000, the LAPL is much more affordable than the PPL-A. Lower minimum flight hours, reduced administration fees, and often smaller aircraft lead to significant savings—without compromising safety or training quality. Expect additional costs for medical exams, study materials, radio operator’s certificate, and exam fees.

Privileges & Limitations

The LAPL permits you to fly single-engine, piston aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 2,000 kg and up to three passengers. Flights must be conducted under visual flight rules (VFR) only. International recognition is limited to EU member states, as the LAPL is not ICAO-compliant. Ratings for instrument flying or multi-engine aircraft are not available with the LAPL.

Note

If you start with the LAPL, you can later upgrade to the PPL-A under certain conditions. This requires additional flight hours and a practical test but offers a flexible route for continued development.

LAPL Summary

The LAPL is ideal for anyone who wants to start flying with manageable effort. It provides plenty of freedom for flights within Europe and is attractive for occasional pilots due to its lower requirements. At the same time, it leaves the door open for future upgrades to the PPL-A.

🛩️ SPL: Sport Pilot License (Ultralight)

The SPL (Sailplane Pilot Licence) for ultralight aircraft—also known as the UL license—is the most affordable and accessible way to earn a pilot license. It’s aimed at those who want to fly mainly within national airspace, for day trips, sightseeing flights, or as a pure leisure activity. Because of its streamlined structure, the SPL is especially popular among hobby pilots seeking a straightforward, relaxed flying experience.

The SPL also allows you to fly sailplanes after the required training. At the time of issuance, you receive only the privileges acquired during your training. For example, if you trained only on sailplanes, you are not automatically allowed to fly motorgliders or ultralights. The type of launch method learned is also relevant: if you trained only on winch launches, you may not perform aerotow launches without additional instruction. Missing privileges can be added later without another exam.

Training & Course Structure

SPL training consists of both theory and practice. Theoretical lessons cover aviation law, navigation, technology, meteorology, and human performance. Practical training generally requires at least 30 flight hours, including at least 5 solo hours and multiple takeoffs and landings at unfamiliar airfields. Depending on the flight school, motorgliders or three-axis ultralights may also be used, offering additional flexibility.

Most students complete training within a few months, and it’s especially well-suited to career changers. Many schools offer starter packages that provide a structured but flexible introduction to flying.

Costs

At around €2,000 to €8,000, the SPL is the most budget-friendly entry point into aviation. Lower requirements for the aircraft, shorter training duration, and reduced bureaucracy make this license attractive for price-conscious beginners. Ongoing costs for ultralight aircraft are also significantly lower compared to classic airplanes, making the SPL a cost-effective long-term solution.

Privileges & Limitations

The SPL authorizes you to fly ultralight aircraft, typically up to 600 kg maximum take-off weight (depending on aircraft type and country). Up to two people are allowed on board. Flights are limited to daytime and visual conditions. International recognition is limited, mostly on a bilateral basis with certain countries.

Note

If you plan to fly regularly over longer distances or wish to move up to larger aircraft, you should consider the PPL-A in the long run. Still, the SPL is a great way to gain your first flight experience or maintain a lifelong flying hobby.

SPL Summary

The SPL is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a simple, affordable entry into private aviation. It offers enough freedom for regional flights, solid training, and a memorable flying experience—all with manageable effort.

Pilot License Comparison Table

Final Thoughts: How to Choose the Right Pilot License

Choosing the right pilot license is often the gateway to an exciting world full of technology, responsibility, and freedom. It’s essential to keep both your immediate wishes and your long-term goals in mind. If you plan to fly abroad frequently, an ICAO-compliant license like the PPL-A or PPL-H is the better choice. Leisure pilots who want to fly smaller aircraft within the EU will find the LAPL to be a balanced, budget-friendly option. For those looking for the simplest and cheapest entry, the SPL provides a fast and straightforward path into private aviation.

Important factors include not only price or training duration, but also ongoing costs, airport availability, opportunities to upgrade your license later, and whether a professional cockpit career is a consideration. Regional differences also play a role, as flight schools may have varying priorities and prices depending on their location.

Ultimately, there is no single “best license”, only the license that best fits your goals, time commitment, and budget. With the right information, you’ll avoid unnecessary costs and be well-prepared for your first solo flight and many hours in the air.