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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a modular and integrated training route?

Answer: An integrated course is a full-time, "zero-to-hero" program, usually at one school, taking 18-24 months. Modular training is a pay-as-you-go, step-by-step approach (PPL, then hour building, then CPL, etc.) that you can often do alongside a full-time job. Modular offers more flexibility and can be cheaper, but may take longer.

Answered by: Experienced Commercial Pilot

How much does it *really* cost to get a PPL?

Answer: While schools advertise the 45-hour minimum, most students take 55-60 hours. You must also budget for exam fees, landing fees, equipment (headset, charts), and your medical certificate. A realistic budget for a PPL in the UK is typically between £11,000 and £14,000.

Answered by: Experienced Commercial Pilot

What is a "Class 1 Medical" and how hard is it to get?

Answer: A Class 1 Medical is the highest standard of medical certificate, required for all commercial pilots. It involves a detailed physical exam, ECG, lung function test, hearing test, and eyesight test. While the standards are high, they are not impossible. Conditions like colour blindness or a history of serious illness (e.g., Crohn's) can be barriers, but are often assessed on a case-by-case basis by the CAA.

Answered by: Standard Response Library (pilots)

What happens if I fail an ATPL theory exam?

Answer: First, don't panic. It's a common occurrence, and it is not the end of your training. However, on an integrated course, it's important to be honest about the consequences, which are mainly related to timing and cost.

Here is a breakdown of what happens:

  • The Official Rules (UK CAA/EASA): You have a total of 4 attempts per subject. You also must pass all 13 exams within 6 sittings (a "sitting" is a 10-day exam period) and within an 18-month timeframe.
  • The "Out of Sync" Problem: This is the main issue. Integrated courses run on a very strict, linear timetable. If you fail one or more exams, you may have to wait for the next available re-sit. During this time, your classmates will likely move on to the next module or phase of training. Depending on how many resits you need, you may fall "out of sync" with your original class.
  • The Financial Cost: You will have to pay the exam re-sit fee to the authority (e.g., the CAA). More significantly, your ATO will very likely charge you additional fees if you require further training. This could be for mandatory revision classes, extra instructor time, or simply an administrative fee for re-scheduling your training plan.
  • The "Worst-Case" Scenario: You must pass all 13 exams before you can start your CPL or MEIR flight training phase. If you fail a subject 4 times or run out of your 6 sittings, the regulations state you must re-take the entire theoretical knowledge course. This is the most significant consequence, involving substantial extra time and cost.

Our advice: Trust your school's progress tests. The system is designed to prevent failures. Do not attempt the official exam until you are consistently scoring 85-90%+ in your mock exams. It is far cheaper and less stressful to delay an exam or sitting by a few weeks than to rush it and fail.

Answered by: Experienced Commercial Pilot

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