Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How old do I need to be?
A. The minimum age requirement is 17 years old for a Private Pilot Licence, and 18 years old for a Commercial Pilot Licence or Frozen ATPL.
Q. Are there any educational requirements needed?
A. We suggest a good pass in school graduating level core Mathematics, Physical Science and English. You can attend the modular Commercial Course without having done one or more of these subjects, however, you are really going to battle without having had the proper grounding.
Q. What do I need to do to qualify?
A. You will need to pass an aviation medical exam and an English Proficiency test. The cost of this is included in your estimate and will be arranged for you at the start of your course. Please note, however, should you have any pre-existing medical conditions we would strongly suggest that you have your medical done before getting here.
Q. How do I enroll for a course?
A. Firstly, you need to check with us with regards to the availability of space on the course date you have selected. After which, you will need to fax or email us the list of documents which you will find on your enrolment page.
Q. Do I have to apply for a Study Visa?
A. If you are a foreign student you will need to apply for a Study Visa through the South African Embassy in your country. We will issue you with a letter for a standard 24 month stay in South Africa on confirmation of your enrolment.
Q. Where can I get financial assistance?
A. If you are a South African citizen you can apply to ABSA and/or First National Banks for a student loan. If you are a foreigner, you would need to apply for financial assistance in your country.
Q. Do I need life cover?
A. This would be up to you and your family to decide on. It is not required by ourselves.
Q. Do I need insurance?
A. Yes, trauma medical and excess insurance. If you don’t already have a medical aid, we can arrange one for you at the start of your course, which will be for your own account. The cost of the excess insurance in included in the estimate.
Q. Do I have to stay on campus?
A. Yes, it is mandatory that you stay on-campus until completion of your ground school phase. If you wish to move off campus after ground school, this must be motivated in writing to the College Master and can be granted subject to the Head of training’s approval and a calendar month’s notice, which is required.
Q. Do I have to stay on-campus?
A. Yes, it is mandatory that you stay on-campus until completion of your final ground school phase. If you wish to move of campus after ground school, this must be motivated in writing to the College Master and can be granted subject to the Head of training’s approval and a calendar month’s notice, which is required.
Q.Will I be allowed any breaks in my course?
A. No, unless you really need to attend an important event and your application for leave has been approved by your flight manager.
Q. Can I bring my family with?
A. We only offer single accommodation, so your family will need to find accommodation in Port Alfred.
Q. How long will the course take me?
A. The duration of your course is given in the estimate provided and is based on an average performance and passing the exams first time round, however, it will be your own ability and weather that will determine exactly how long the course will actually take you.
Q. How do I get from the Airport to Port Alfred at the start and end of my course?
A. We will arrange to collect you from Port Elizabeth or East London at the start and end of your course. It is recommended that you arrive/depart at midday. We will require details such as your flight number, arrival date and time at least one weak prior to the start/end of your course to arrange for your collection/drop off. No family members will be allowed to travel with you.
Q. Is my licence internationally recognised?
A. No license is internationally recognised. You will need to convert your license in accordance with the aviation laws of the country that you intend flying in.
Q. Will I have my own room?
A. Depending on how busy we are at the time, you might have to share your room with one other student while attending your PPL course, after which you will be allocated your own room.
Q. If I pay my course fees in full, can I get a discount?
A. We offer you good value for your money, but no discounted rates. The PPL course fees are due in full one week prior to the start of the course, less the deposit paid. The CPL or IATPL course fees can be paid in accordance with the payment schedule, or in full, which ever is preferred.
Q. How soon should I pay my deposit?
A. Allow six month in advance of your chosen starting date to pay your deposit and secure your space on the course. For late or last minute bookings please first check with us with regards to course availability, before paying your deposit.
Q. Do I need to do a psychometric test?
A. It is not one of our requirements, but is a good idea, especially if you are uncertain about your career choice and/or ability to be a pilot.
