Private Pilot

Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) and Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

At Bankstown Flight School, we provide non-integrated training, this gives our Students flexible training options to fit in with their busy lives rather than having to engage in a full-time course. 

Book Now

Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL)

A recreational pilot licence (RPL) the first pilot licence you can obtain with certain limitations which can be extended later with Private pilot licence. 

RA-Aus certificate holders can convert to an RPL with a little CASA paperwork and a class rating flight review for your aircraft type. 

Students can begin their training at any age provided, they can physically reach the aircraft controls, however, Students can only conduct solo flying after their 15th birthday. To be eligible to undertake the RPL flight test, Students must have reached their 16th birthday. 

Bankstown RPL

To hold an RPL, you must be 16–year–old and have:

  • A current medical certificate—this may be Class 1 or 2
  • Minimum: 25 hours flight time comprising 20 hours dual and five hours solo
  • Sit and pass the CASA RPL theory exam
  • A recommendation for the RPL flight test is dependent on a student demonstrating competency at the standard required.

RPL holders are limited to:

  • Flying no more than 25nm from the aerodrome where the flight began, the designated training area, or a direct route between the two
  • Day VFR private operations in a single engine aircraft with a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 1500kg. 

Private Pilot Licence (PPL)

A private pilot licence (PPL) builds on the knowledge and experience gained during RPL training and is a licence that allows a holder to pilot an aircraft as pilot-in-command or co-pilot when the aircraft is being operated privately. 

Bankstown PPL

To hold a private pilot licence (PPL) you must have reached 17 years old, and:

  • Minimum of 30 hours dual flight
  • At least 10 hours solo; of which 5 hours solo must be cross country
  • Sit and pass the CASA PPL theory exam
  • Recommendation for the PPL flight test is dependent on achieving the Competency required standard.

FAQ’s

How much does it cost?

The cost for a Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) can vary between $10 – $12,900.00.

Why the variation? people learn in different ways, in our experience, the average Pilot can demonstrate competency, confidently, between 40 – 50 hours of training.

BFS adopts a pay-as-you train approach, rather than having to apply for a loan or pay a lump sum, you pay for your lessons as you complete them.

It should also be noted that your ground school is included in your RPL lessons.

Am I guaranteed to pass?

As with any flight training, safety is the most important aspect, we will train you until a safe standard, so you are then comfortable yourself to fly off with family and friends.

What is enroute training?

For example we have a Doctor who regularly had to attend clinics in regional NSW, he was an existing pilot but not on Cirrus, so what we did was construct a Cirrus converion course so that he could complete part of the syllabus at the same time as his travel requirements.

Can I get help to pay?

Unfortunately we dont offer credit of finance for the course and the cost for the hours flown will have to be paid on completion of the flight

Can I rent after course completion?

Yes we do offer rental to our pilots on completion and we have on offer a range of SR 20 or SR 22, you are free to take this away on long journeys as long as minimum hours are met, please enquire for more info.

I want to buy a SR 20 or SR 22?

We have on show in our hanger a range of SR 20 and SR 22 aircraft, so please visit to discuss purchase as well as map put your training course.

I want to buy a Vision Jet!

We are proud to have in our hanger a new 2020 model SF 50 Vision Jet. This aircraft is not available to rent or train on, but syndicates are on offer or you can discuss an outright purchase. Contact us for more info.

Can you train in other locations?

Yes for certain circumstances such as full time courses, we do offer training away from our home base at Bankstown airport, please feel free to ask.

*please note that additional expenses may apply such as accomodation and enroute travel costs*

Book Now

Learn with our Flight Training Specialists

The learning begins here, from the very first flight until you obtain your licence, then fly around Australia. Maybe a career to fly everywhere in the world.

Book Now
Our team of management and instructors will provide you with excellence in flight training, whilst representing the Cirrus brand in the highest way possible.
Learn More

© 2025 Bankstown Flying School. All Rights Reserved.