South Africa

Why to train in South Africa?

1. Favorable Weather Conditions: South Africa's climate provides excellent flying conditions year-round. With clear skies, minimal turbulence, and a low occurrence of adverse weather conditions, students can maximize their flight hours and training opportunities.

2. Diverse Terrains: South Africa boasts diverse landscapes, including mountains, coastlines, and plains, offering trainee pilots a wide range of flying experiences. This exposure to different terrains enhances their skills and prepares them for various real-world scenarios.

3. World-Class Training Facilities: The country is home to state-of-the-art aviation training centers equipped with advanced simulators and aircraft. These facilities provide students with immersive and realistic training experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers as commercial pilots.

4. Highly Qualified Instructors: South Africa attracts experienced and highly qualified flight instructors who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the training programs. Students benefit from personalized instruction, mentorship, and guidance from industry professionals.

5. International Recognition: Commercial pilot licenses obtained in South Africa are internationally recognized, opening up global career opportunities. Graduates from South African training programs are sought after by airlines and aviation companies worldwide.

6. Cost-Effective Training: Compared to other countries, commercial pilot training in South Africa is often more cost-effective. The favorable exchange rates and affordable living expenses make it an attractive option for students looking to pursue their aviation dreams without breaking the bank.

7. Networking Opportunities: South Africa has a thriving aviation community, offering ample networking opportunities for students. Industry events, airshows, and aviation organizations provide a platform for aspiring pilots to connect with professionals, potential employers, and fellow aviation enthusiasts.

A commercial pilot's license represents the culmination of a comprehensive training program that encompasses multiple modules. The structure of the training program leading to a commercial pilot's license is as follows:

• The Private Pilot’s Licence.

• The night rating.

• The Commercial ground school and exams.

• Hour building.

• The instrument rating.

• The multi engine rating (optional).

• The commercial pilot’s rating.

Each one of these phases has to be completed before you can submit your licence to the SACAA and finally receive your Commercial Pilot’s Licence.

Now, let's delve into the Commercial Pilot License and explore its requirements in greater detail:

• 200 hours minimum flying time

• 100 hours minimum pilot in command

• 5 hour minimum pilot in command by night

• 50 hours minimum cross country (Commercial Pilot’s Licence with IF rating)

• 20 hours minimum cross country (Commercial Pilot’s Licence without IF rating)

• 20 hours minimum instrument flight time of which 10 hours may be accumulated on a simulator

• 40 hours minimum instrument flight time of which 20 hours may be accumulated on a simulator (Commercial Pilot’s Licence with IF Rating)

• 18 years old

• Hold a valid Private Pilot Licence and Night Rating

• Hold a valid Class 1 Medical Certificate

• Have completed the Commercial theoretical examinations

One of the most important aspects of the Commercial Pilot’s Licence is the completion of commercial ground subjects and examinations.

Many students progress quickly through all the flying steps but do not realise the amount of work required to complete the ground school portion of the commercial licence.

The following subjects have to be passed:

• Human Performance

• Meteorology

• Aircraft Technical and General

• Radio Aids

• Instruments

• Navigation 

• Air Law 

• Flight Planning

• Instrument Rating Examination (Commercial Pilot’s Licence with Instrument Rating)

Contact us today to know more.