Anyone can learn to fly. The age requirement is 16 years to go solo, 17 years to obtain a Private Pilots Licence (PPL) and 18 years to obtain a Commercial Pilots Licence (CPL).  There is no upper age limit.

There are medical requirements you need to meet in order to go solo, and to obtain a PPL. (If you intend to go on to a CPL then these requirements are slightly stricter).  You must pass a routine medical examination every five years for your PPL, and every two years after reaching the age of 40.  These exams have to be done with a doctor appointed by the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority.  Generally, glasses and minor ailments will not count you out medically.

In addition to the medical, you need to pass six multi-choice theory exams covering various aspects of aviation.  These are not hard and are generally considered to be at a New Zealand 4th/5th form level.  We provide ground courses for those who do not wish to study the subjects by themselves, and we have all the required textbooks and accessories you will need to pass your examinations.

The Kapiti Aero Club offers an introductory flight during which you will discover the excitement and exhilaration of "hands on" flight in a light aircraft.  The flight will be in the company of one of our qualified instructors and will be preceded by a short briefing.  The flight will last approximately 20 minutes.  The trial flight is recommended to anyone considering commencing flight training, and who has never experienced the sensation of "hands on" flying.  You will not have any commitment to continue the training process.  The flight is available every day and can be flown in either a fixed wing aircraft or a helicopter.

To obtain a full private pilots licence (PPL) you must complete a minimum of 50 hours of flight training which includes cross country and instrument flying.  A restricted licence (not including cross country) can be obtained in 40 hours minimum.  The restricted licence enables you to take passengers (not for reward) up to 25 nautical miles from the aerodrome.  The full PPL enables you to go anywhere in New Zealand.  You may take as many or as few lessons a week as you wish, and you could obtain a PPL as quickly as three months if desired.  We recommend a lesson per week if possible to maintain continuity.  With a full licence, suitable experience and type ratings, Club aircraft are available for hire for those private trips away, or to take family and friends on scenic flights.

Once you have obtained a PPL, the Kapiti Aero Club offers further flight training for the ambitious.

• Night ratings

• Advanced PPL course

• Aerobatics rating

• Commercial Pilots Licence

• Flying Instructor ratings

• Many different aircraft type ratings

• Multi engine rating

• Instrument rating