The PPL and LAPL are both licences for people who want to fly privately. The theory course is the same, but the licences differ in what you may fly, how long the flight training is and what you can build on afterwards.
The differences at a glance
| PPL | LAPL | |
|---|---|---|
| Aircraft | Single-engine aeroplanes | Single-engine aeroplanes up to 2,000 kg |
| People on board | Not limited by the licence | At most four |
| Passengers | As soon as the licence is issued | After 10 hours as pilot in command |
| Flight training | At least 45 hours | At least 30 hours |
| Theory course | Approx. 12 weeks by distance learning | Same course as the PPL |
| Medical certificate | Class 2 | LAPL medical or class 1 or 2 |
| Minimum age | 17 years | 17 years |
| Instrument ratings | Can be added | Requires you to take the PPL first |
| Total cost with us | From SEK 144,900 | From SEK 100,000 |
Choose the LAPL if
- you want to fly in your spare time with family or friends in an ordinary four-seat training aircraft
- you want to get into the air with shorter and less expensive flight training
- you are not planning to take an instrument rating or pursue a career in aviation.
Choose the PPL if
- you want to go on to an instrument rating (CB-IR or BIR)
- you are considering a career in aviation, where the PPL is the foundation
- you want to fly larger aircraft than the LAPL allows, or carry more passengers.
Can I start with the LAPL and take the PPL later?
Yes. The theory course is the same, and if you hold a LAPL, part of your flying experience can be credited when you move on to the PPL. We assess how much based on your logbook. Talk to us before you start, and we will plan your training so that nothing is duplicated.
Want to see what the whole licence costs including exams and fees? Read How much does a pilot licence cost?