Are you an FAA-licensed pilot looking to expand your horizons and fly in Europe? Whether you hold a Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), Waterford Aero Club (WAC) can support you through the process of obtaining your European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) PPL.
Understanding the Process:
Under the EASA/FAA bilateral agreement, pilots can apply for an EASA PPL based on their existing FAA license. While there’s no mandatory training outlined in this agreement, it’s recommended that pilots undergo some localisation and refresher training to ensure readiness for the EASA skills test. Many pilots overestimate the complexity of the process and the standard required to pass the skills test. The examiner isn’t looking for perfection but rather the ability to safely operate the aircraft to a standard comparable to a newly trained PPL holder.
Prerequisites:
To apply via this process, pilots must meet several prerequisites:
- Valid FAA medical.
- Valid FAA flight review within the last 24 months.
- Valid EASA medical certificate issued by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) for the skills test.
English Language Proficiency (ELP):
EASA requires pilots to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Depending on your circumstances, you can either use your last FAA flight review as confirmation of your English proficiency or undergo an ELP assessment at Waterford Aero Club.
Flying Manoeuvres and Flight Test Standards:
The VFR PPL skills test covers various flight manoeuvres, including navigation, stalls, slow flight, steep turns, and circuit procedures. While some manoeuvres from the FAA PPL flight test aren’t required for the EASA skills test, it’s essential to be proficient in those outlined by EASA.
The Skills Test:
The skills test consists of an oral and a flight test. During the oral, the examiner assesses your knowledge of air law, communications, and other relevant topics. The flight test includes navigation exercises, upper airwork, and circuit procedures.
Night Rating:
If your FAA PPL includes night privileges, you can also apply for an EASA night rating with the appropriate experience.
Applying for the License:
Waterford Aero Club assists with completing the application forms for the IAA. Once submitted, it typically takes four to eight weeks to receive the license.
Exclusions:
Certain conditions and limitations apply, including eligibility criteria, license equivalencies, and aircraft categories covered under the agreement.
Embarking on the journey to obtain your EASA PPL opens up a world of opportunities to explore European skies. With the support and expertise of Waterford Aero Club, you can navigate the process with confidence and embark on your European aviation adventure.
For more information and assistance Waterford Aero Club has produced detailed briefing notes you can read here or contact Waterford Aero Club at ctki@waterfordaeroclub.com
