Training
Pilot License
LAPL license for leisure, PPL for classical private flying, or ATPL to become an airline pilot: the flying club or school that will train you is in our network. Flight hours, theory, simulator and aviation medical organized. IFR, IR and multi-engine ratings available. Free personalized quote, 48h callback.
The essentials
The French pilot license is the European EASA license authorising aircraft piloting, available in three levels depending on the project: LAPL for local leisure (30 flight hours minimum), PPL for international private flying (45h minimum) and ATPL to become an airline pilot. Cost varies widely by license: around EUR 30 per club flight hour for LAPL, EUR 8,000 to EUR 12,000 for a full PPL, and EUR 60,000 to EUR 100,000 for ATPL in a professional school.
Everything about the pilot license
The pilot license groups the EASA pilot licenses issued by the French DGAC: LAPL for local leisure flying, PPL for international private flying, and ATPL to operate as a professional airline pilot. Each pilot license requires theoretical training (9 DGAC subjects), minimum flight hours, an aviation medical examination, and a Skill Test in flight with a DGAC examiner. DevisPermis connects you with DTO or ATO certified aero clubs and flight schools across 490+ cities, comparing flight-hour rates, aircraft types (Cessna 152, Robin DR400, DA40) and instructor reputation. Free quote, 48h callback.
LAPL License (leisure, up to 4 seats)
- LAPL = Light Aircraft Pilot License: entry-level European pilot license for local leisure flying.
- Piston aircraft up to 2 tonnes, maximum 3 passengers, VFR only within the EASA area.
- EASA minimum: 30 flight hours including 6 solo (35 to 45h in practice).
- LAPL pilot license price: EUR 6,000 to 12,000 depending on the aero club and actual hours.
- LAPL class medical with a DGAC-approved AME doctor (EUR 80 to 150).
PPL License (private, international)
- PPL = Private Pilot License: privately-rated pilot license recognized worldwide, the backbone of private aviation.
- VFR flight with passengers on piston single-engine aircraft, worldwide.
- EASA minimum: 45 flight hours including 10 solo (50 to 60h on average in practice).
- PPL pilot license price: EUR 8,000 to 15,000 depending on aero club and aircraft.
- Gateway to the professional CPL then ATPL pilot licenses.
ATPL License (professional airline pilot)
- ATPL = Airline Transport Pilot License: the highest pilot license in civil aviation.
- Required to operate as captain on commercial transport aircraft.
- 18 to 24 months training in the integrated path, 1,500 flight hours required for the full ATPL.
- ATPL pilot license price: EUR 60,000 to 100,000 depending on ATO school and route (integrated or modular).
- Type Rating on A320/B737: additional EUR 25,000 to 35,000 to join an airline.
Qualifications, price and DGAC certified centers
- Aircraft qualifications: Night Rating (EUR 1,500-3,000), IR instrument flying (EUR 8,000-15,000), MEP multi-engine (EUR 4,000-8,000), aerobatics (EUR 2,500-5,000).
- Pilot license price varies by aero club, aircraft (Cessna 152, Robin DR400, DA40) and actual flight hours, plus the non-profit vs commercial margin.
- DGAC certified centers: DTO (Declared Training Organization) for LAPL/PPL, ATO (Approved Training Organization) for professional CPL/ATPL training.
- Funding: France Travail (career change to ATPL), CPF sometimes usable for professional theory via Mon Compte Formation.
- See Service Public for DGAC administrative steps (AME medical examination, foreign pilot license equivalences, flight declaration).
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02
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*Excluding Sundays and public holidays.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age to learn to fly a plane?
You can start training from age 14. The first solo flight is permitted at 16. The LAPL and PPL are issued from age 17.
How many hours are required for a PPL?
EASA regulations require a minimum of 45 flight hours for the PPL, including 10 hours solo. In practice, most candidates need 50 to 70 hours.
Can you become an airline pilot from a LAPL or PPL?
Yes, the LAPL and PPL are the first steps towards a professional career. The progression is: PPL → CPL (Commercial Pilot Licence) → ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence). Each step requires additional training and flight hours.
Is a medical examination required to learn to fly?
Yes. To fly solo, a medical certificate is mandatory. The LAPL requires a LAPL class (less restrictive), the PPL requires a class 2. The exam must be carried out by a DGAC-approved AME (Aircraft Medical Examiner).
What is the difference between LAPL and PPL?
The LAPL is a more economical European license, limited to aircraft under 2 tonnes and 4 seats. It is enough for solo or accompanied flights in Europe. The PPL is more complete, international, allows more qualifications (IFR, multi-engine) and is the gateway to professional flying.
How much does a PPL cost in France?
On average, expect €10,000 to €15,000 for a PPL, depending on the club (non-profit or commercial), aircraft type and actual hours needed. Theory costs €500 to €1,500, practical flying €8,000 to €12,000.
Is pilot training CPF-eligible?
Leisure licenses (LAPL, PPL) are not eligible to the CPF via Mon Compte Formation. Only professional licenses (CPL, ATPL) can be CPF-funded in the context of a documented career-change project, via a Qualiopi-certified ATO. France Travail can also co-fund for jobseekers.
Which aero clubs are approved in France?
The FFA (Fédération Française Aéronautique) groups about 600 aero clubs in France. Each must hold a DTO (Declared Training Organization) approval to deliver LAPL/PPL training. The official list is on the DGAC and FFA websites.
Do I need to speak English to fly?
Basic English is enough for LAPL and PPL in France. To fly abroad or into English-speaking controlled airports, the FCL.055 (English language proficiency, ICAO level) is required. Most clubs offer specific preparation.
Can I fly with glasses or contact lenses?
Yes, provided your correction is within the limits of the medical certificate (usually ±6 diopters). A spare pair is mandatory on board. Contact lenses are allowed if mentioned in your medical file.