Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

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Take your flying to new heights with a Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

Building upon the foundation of the Recreational Pilot Licence, the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) empowers you to fly further, carry more passengers, and explore new horizons. As an internationally recognized qualification, the PPL opens doors to flying opportunities both within Australia and abroad.

Whether you’re flying for fun or working toward a Commercial Pilot Licence, the PPL is an important step in broadening your horizons and learning new skills that can be carried through to all your future flying endeavours.

Why Choose RVAC for your PPL?

Experienced Instructors

Learn from seasoned pilots dedicated to your success.

Diverse Fleet

Train on a variety of aircraft, including Cessna and Piper models.

Comprehensive Training

Complete all stages of your training in-house, from theory to flight tests.

Flexible Scheduling Options

Train at your own pace with availability seven days a week.

Your Aircraft

Choose from a diverse fleet of aircraft to complete your Recreational Pilot Licence.

smooth and spacious

Piper Warrior

The low-wing Piper Warrior offers a smooth, responsive flying experience. Its powerful engine, spacious cockpit, and IFR-capable avionics make it a strong choice for pilots looking to develop confidence and precision during cross-country flights and controlled airspace procedures.
Whether you’re building solo hours, planning long-distance navs, or preparing for your PPL flight test, these aircraft provide a safe, capable, and enjoyable training environment.

versatile and reliable

Cessna 172

Renowned for its stability, reliability, and forgiving flight characteristics, the Cessna 172 is a global training favourite. With a 180HP engine and advanced avionics, it provides the perfect platform for mastering navigation, radio procedures, and complex airspace operations—key components of PPL training.

Flight Training Fees

At RVAC, we believe in clear and fair pricing. Your flight training investment includes not just aircraft time and instruction, but access to a rich learning environment and club community.
This fee does not include the cost of completing the Recreational Pilot Licence Syllabus, which is a prerequisite for the issuance of a PPL.

What’s included?

Flight training hours (20.6 hours dual, 5.5 hours solo, 2 hours simulator)

Briefings and debriefings before and after each flight

Long Brief on Navigation Principles and Planning

Level 6 English Assessment

Student support and guidance throughout your training

PPL Theory Course and Exam

Access to student resources and Library

PPL Flight Test and Licence Issue

Pay as you Go

RVAC uses a pay-as-you-go model, so you only pay for the training you complete. This flexible structure allows you to manage your costs and progress at your own pace.

$16,596

Based on Piper Warrior or Cessna 172, and RVAC’s training syllabus. Training is competency-based, so while the CASA minimum requirement is 40 hours, the actual number of hours needed may vary depending on individual progress. Price is indicative and includes GST.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about our PPL Training Program.

Still have questions?

What is the difference between an RPL and a PPL?

The RPL allows you to fly within 25nm of your departure airport (with some endorsements), while the PPL removes that limitation and lets you fly anywhere in Australia – and even overseas – under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). PPL holders can also carry more passengers and operate more types of aircraft.

Do I need to complete an RPL before starting a PPL?

No, you don’t need to be issued with an RPL to begin your PPL. However, the RPL syllabus (lessons and competencies) must still be completed as part of your PPL training. Many students choose to obtain the RPL first as a milestone, but it’s not a formal requirement.

How long does it take to get a PPL?

Training time depends on your availability and frequency of lessons. Most students complete their PPL within 3 to 12 months. Training can be done full-time or part-time.

Can I get paid to fly with a PPL?

No. A PPL is strictly a private, non-commercial licence. If you wish to be paid for flying or pursue a career in aviation, you’ll need to continue to the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).

What’s next after getting my PPL?

If you’re looking to just fly for fun, this is where many pilots will stop training. You may also be interested in going on to:

• Add endorsements (like Manual Pitch Propeller Control or Retractable Undercarriage)
• Complete a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
• Gain an Instrument Rating
• Train for a Flight Instructor Rating

RVAC offers all these options.

Is there any financial assistance available?

Eligible students can defer their tuition fees under the VET Student Loans Scheme when enrolled in a full-time Diploma of Aviation course. Read More

What comes after the PPL?

The Private Pilot Licence (PPL) significantly expands your flying privileges. With a PPL, you can act as pilot in command of a registered aircraft anywhere in Australia, and internationally, under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). You may carry passengers for private or recreational purposes and operate from both controlled and uncontrolled aerodromes.

However, a PPL does not permit you to fly for commercial gain, and you must maintain currency and meet recency requirements to carry passengers. Night flying and instrument conditions also require additional ratings.

After obtaining your PPL, you can further enhance your skills and qualifications through:

Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)

Instrument Rating (IR) / Private Instrument Rating (PIR)

Multi-Engine Class Rating (MEA)

Design Feature Endorsements (DFE)

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Interested in a career in aviation?

The Diploma of Aviation is your pathway to a Commercial Pilot Licence.
Complete the Private Pilot Licence as part of our next full-time Diploma course!
Eligible students may access financial support through the VET Student Loans program.

Begin your Aviation Journey

Ready to start? Fill in the form below and we’ll get back to you with information about how to begin your flight training with us.

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