Where your independence as a licence holder takes off
Before starting the CPL course, you need to build a minimum of 150 flight hours, including your PPL hours. Many of these should be solo, or as Pilot in Command (PIC), where you are in charge of the aircraft without an instructor on board. By the time you receive your CPL, you’ll need a total of 100 hours PIC. Most CPL flight training is flown dual, and you’ll likely have about 10 hours PIC from your PPL course, leaving around 90 hours PIC to complete before starting the CPL.
While hour building allows some flexibility, it’s wise to use this time effectively. For example, obtaining a Night Rating, a short five-hour course including some night solo flying, is highly recommended. Flying purely for enjoyment can be counterproductive, as at this stage, you may unknowingly develop habits that are difficult to correct later. Focus on consolidating and practising the skills you learned during your PPL.
What will I need to do during my hour building?
Of your 100 PIC hours, at least 50 must be cross-country time. Cross-country flights are logged when you take off from one airfield and land at a different airfield.
You will also need to complete a Qualifying Cross Country (QXC) flight of 300 nautical miles in a single day, departing and arriving at three separate airfields.
During your hour building, you may also choose to complete a Restricted Instrument Rating (IRR). The IRR allows you to fly in poor weather in uncontrolled airspace, provides excellent preparation for your upcoming instrument rating course, and can even reduce some of your required training hours. For more information, visit our IRR webpage.
What options do I have for building hours?
Self-fly hire through a flying club or school
The most flexible option and easiest way to hour build. You can pay as you go in most cases, or purchase a block of hours with a club that specialises in hour-building. Most flying clubs or schools have online booking systems that let you see the availability of their aircraft.
Intensive Hour Building packages
If you want to complete your training quickly, intensive hour-building packages are worth considering. These allow you to complete most or all of your hours within a few weeks, often at a cost benefit. Some students even combine this with international hour building, making it a fun experience as well.
Purchasing an aircraft share
Buying a share in an aircraft can be cost-effective, but it comes with challenges, such as selling the share once your hour building is complete. Ensure any aircraft share you purchase has up-to-date insurance, legal documentation, and maintenance schedules.
Have any questions regarding your hour building, get in touch with our training advisors today who can help you explore your options