How Much Does It Cost to Learn to Fly? A Guide to PPL and CPL Training

How Much Does It Cost to Learn to Fly? Learning to fly is one of the most exciting journeys you can take. Whether you want to fly for fun or turn aviation into a career, understanding the cost of flight training is an important first step.

At HeliSpeed, we help aspiring pilots at every stage from their first trial lesson to earning their Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). In this guide, we’ll break down the costs, what they include, and how to plan your budget effectively.

Understanding the Different Pilot Licences

Before diving into the numbers, it’s important to know the difference between the two main types of pilot licences:

• Private Pilot Licence (PPL). This is for those who want to fly for pleasure, not for payment.

• Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). This allows you to be paid to fly and is essential if you want to work as a professional pilot.

The training path and costs vary significantly between these two licences, so let’s look at each in detail.

The Cost of a Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

A PPL (H). Private Pilot Licence for helicopters, is the first step into the world of aviation for many.

How Much Does It Cost?

There is no official number that can be placed on a PPL (H) as this depends upon:

• The type of aircraft you train on

• The flight school’s hourly rate

• Your own learning pace

At HeliSpeed, we provide clear pricing and flexible training plans, so you know exactly what to expect.

What’s Included in the Cost

To complete your PPL training, you will need:

• A minimum of 45 flight hours with 15 hours solo (as required by the CAA)

• Ground school theory and passed exams

Keep in mind that some students may need additional flight hours before they’re ready for their skills test, which can add to the total cost. HeliSpeed offers discounts on purchasing hours in bulk to ensure cost effectiveness for our customers.

Extra Costs to Consider

Other smaller costs can include:

• CAA medical examination

• Exam fees

These are important to budget for when planning your training.

The Cost of a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL(H))

If you want to fly professionally, you’ll need to progress to a CPL (H). This training is more intensive and includes advanced flying techniques, navigation, and commercial operations.

How Much Does It Cost?

The CPL course typically is a “pay as you go” type cost depending on your training route and the number of flight hours gained during your time of gaining your PPL(H). This is because the hours flown during PPL training are carried over to the total hours required to qualify for a CPL(H) examination.

Most students build their hours through self fly hire, which is a service HeliSpeed provides after completing their PPL.

To qualify for a CPL(H) examination, a minimum of 155 flight hours are required.

What’s Included in CPL Training

CPL training generally include:

• 35 hours of solo flying

• Ground school theory and exams

• Skills test and examiner fees

• Flight planning and navigation training

Why Costs Vary

Costs can differ depending on:

• Additional training that may be required

• Training school rates

• Fuel prices and location

At HeliSpeed, we help you find the most efficient route, ensuring your investment leads directly toward your professional flying career.

How to Budget for Flight Training

Flying is a financial commitment, but there are ways to manage your budget effectively.

• Purchase hours in bulk for optimised pricing

• Make use of HeliSpeeds HeliTrax system to keep your training on track

• Study effectively with HeliSpeeds online ground school to avoid retaking exams.

HeliSpeed can guide you through your options to make your dream of becoming a pilot achievable.

Why Train with HeliSpeed?

Choosing the right flight school can make all the difference.

At HeliSpeed, we offer:

• Experienced instructors with real-world industry backgrounds

• Flexible training paths to suit your goals and budget

• Modern aircraft and professional facilities

• Career support for those moving from PPL to CPL and beyond

We’re passionate about helping every student achieve their flying ambitions safely, efficiently, and with full transparency around costs.

Enquire about our prices

Email glenn@helispeed.co.uk for information regarding our training rates or call 01253808888 for any other questions you may have