Flying Companion's Course

The syllabus of instruction is designed to enable those who regularly accompany a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) holder or a National Private Pilot Licence (NPPL) holder to be more involved in their flights. It also helps to increase confidence when flying as a passenger.

The course is conducted by a qualified Flying Instructor. The hours flown on this course can be logged, should the candidate decide to continue training towards a PPL or NPPL.

Emergency Radiotelephony is included in the course but those wishing to assist with radio operations during flight on a routine basis are required to hold a Radiotelephony Licence. This is because training for the Flying Companion’s Certificate will not necessarily comply with the standard procedures and phraseology required by the applicant for a Radiotelephony Licence.

The course consists of a minimum of eight hours dual flying with a qualified Flight Instructor and conducted within a period of 12 months.

Ground Briefings

• Air Law
• Principles of Flight
• Human Performance and Limitations
• Effects of Controls
• How to make use of the instruments
• Aircraft systems that need to be monitored
• How to use the radio and transponder
• How circuits are flown at an airfield
• How to understand the aeronautical map
• How to use the Emergency Services

A minimum of 8 hours' Flight Instruction covering:

• Straight and level flight
• Climbing, descending and turning
• Landing
• Map reading

It culminates in a simulated emergency with recovery to an appropriate airfield and a safe landing. Upon completion of the course the application is sent to AOPA with a fee of £20 and the AOPA Flying Companion’s Certificate is issued.

The Course Price is based on the minimum requirement of ten hours' ground tuition and eight hours' flying instruction and includes landing fees at Bournemouth and Old Sarum.