CPL(A) – Commercial Pilot License

Scope of authorization

As a responsible pilot, you may fly aircraft that are categorized as single-pilot aircraft in the commercial sector. These are usually propeller-driven aircraft weighing up to 5.7 tons.

The CPL(A) license includes the following rights in detail:

  • Activity as a private pilot PPL(A)
  • In non-commercial air transport, to work as a pilot in command or co-pilot on aircraft of the type entered in the pilot’s license
  • In commercial air transport, to work as a pilot in command on aircraft of the type entered in the pilot’s license that are approved for a minimum crew consisting of one pilot (SPA Single Pilot Aircraft)
  • In commercial aviation, as a co-pilot on aircraft of the type specified in the pilot’s license (SPA Single Pilot Aircraft and MPA Multi Pilot Aircraft)

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Theory CPL(A)

Our theoretical CPL-A training comprises 270 hours, at least 60 of which are held as classroom lessons. The theoretical training is generally conducted as distance learning via our partner, Cranfield Aviation Training School (Germany) GmbH in Dortmund. The dates for the required classroom lessons can be found here.

In general, we recommend that our students complete their ATPL theory training via distance learning. The academic level between ATPL and CPL is identical, and ATPL includes both IR (instrument rating) and HPA (high performance) theory. If you decide to upgrade from CPL-A/IR to ATPL-A at a later date, you will have to repeat almost all of the training and exams.

The theoretical exam can be taken at any EASA examination authority (e.g., the Federal Aviation Authority in Braunschweig, Austro Control, etc.). The exam can be taken in six parts, with four attempts available per subject.

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Practical training CPL(A)

The practical training comprises at least 25 flight hours with a flight instructor, including 10 hours of instrument training. Of these, 5 hours can be completed on a BITD, FNPT I or II, or FTD 2 simulator. If a valid IR-A is available, the training is reduced to 15 flight hours with a flight instructor. If you have a valid IR-H, the training is reduced to 20 flight hours with a flight instructor, whereby simulator use is no longer possible.

If no night flight authorization is available, the training will be extended by at least 5 training hours at night. At least 5 takeoffs and landings must be completed in solo flight.

At least 5 training hours must be flown on an aircraft that is certified for at least 4 persons, has a variable pitch propeller, and is equipped with retractable landing gear.

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Requirements CPL(A)

  • 150 flight hours, including 50 hours as PIC on aircraft
  • 10 hours of PIC cross-country flight, including one flight of over 540 km (300 NM) with two stopovers until complete standstill
  • PPL(A) with night rating (if not available, CPL(A) training is extended by 5 hours of NVFR training)

The privileges of the CPL-A may only be exercised under VFR conditions without an additional IR rating.

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Renewal CPL(A)

The license itself is valid for life and does not need to be renewed. However, as with the PPL, the class and type ratings included must be renewed regularly. This also applies to any instrument rating (IR) that may be included.

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Training costs CPL(A)

    The training costs amount to approximately €13,017.20 for the complete training program, not including any possible training discounts and assuming that the CPL theory exam has not yet been passed, but that night flight authorization has already been obtained. Here you will find our sample offer in conjunction with our current price list. Preisliste.

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      The legal basis is provided by Annex 3, Section E, of EU Regulation 1178/2011 and the associated accepted means of compliance (AMCs). We recommend the EASA Easy Access Document for further information. Easy Access Dokument der EASA 

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      Register now

      The training options are diverse, and our website cannot replace a personal consultation. Please feel free to contact us to discuss possible training options and clarify any questions you may have. You are also welcome to book the course using the contact form.

      We will coordinate the training dates with you at short notice.