RECREATIONAL PILOT CERTIFICATE (RPC)
If your intention is to fly a light aeroplane purely for recreation and only fly solo or with one passenger, then Recreational Aviation (see Recreational Aviation Australia) may be best suited to your needs. Many recreational aircraft run on the same fuel as cars and generally cost less to operate. You do not have to meet some of the more stringent aviation medical standards required to fly General Aviation.  If you decide to convert to General Aviation down the track, your hours will count in full, even towards a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).

WHAT A RPC ALLOWS YOU TO DO

A RPC will allow you to fly a certified 'light sport' or 'experimental' single-engine aeroplane with not more than 2 seats and a maximum take-off weight of 600 kg.  You can fly by day only, and within a radius of 25 nautical miles (about 46 kilometres) from your departure airport, outside controlled airspace. To venture further afield you can do a Cross-Country Endorsement, and to carry a passenger you will need to do a Passenger Carrying Endorsement.

REQUIREMENTS

To be issued with the certificate you must have turned 15 years old. As part of the licence requirements, you will complete a declaration that you have a health standard equivalent to the Australian Private Drivers' Licence medical requirements - obviously, if you aren't old enough to drive, your parents can make the declaration on your behalf, that you *could* meet the requirements. Otherwise, you could undertake an aviation medical to also meet this requirement. You must also be under 75 years of age (or have a letter form your General Practitioner, as part of the medical declaration).  There are some disqualifying medical conditions, so make sure you check beforehand..

​On the flying side, you must complete a minimum of 20 hours training including not less than 5 hours solo. If completing on a full time basis, the course can be completed in about 5 weeks - most people undertake the course in a part time mode.  The theory component is broken down into 5 separate exams but if you find it difficult to self study ask about our Ground Theory Courses.

Additional endorsements

For extending with a Cross Country endorsement, there will be an additional theory exam, and an additional 10 hours dual cross country training, along with 2 hours solo cross country. After the flight test, you will be authorised to fly anywhere in Australia, outside of controlled airspace. That's a lot of country!

You will need a total of 10 hours solo flight time (some from your initial training, plus a little extra) and a check-flight for your Passenger Carrying endorsement.

Converting from other licences

If you already hold some other pilot licence, from another sport aviation organisation, or a CASA-issued licence, talk to us about converting to a RAAus RPC, which will recognise the flying you have already undertaken.