Technical specifications for the proposed UK National Private Pilot's Licence (NPPL) are nearing finalisation. Pending government approval, the NPPL could become available by the end of 2001, says the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Details drawn up by the CAA and the general aviation community include restricting the NPPL to aircraft with a fixed propeller and undercarriage, four seats or fewer, and a maximum take-off weight of up to 2,000kg (4,400lb).
In addition, operations will be limited to UK airspace in daytime visual flight rules. Minimum flying training hours will be set at 32.
The long-awaited introduction of the NPPL will, according to the industry, slash the average cost of a licence by around one-third, thereby making training more accessible.
The successful introduction of a NPPL is likely to prompt other European nations, such as Ireland, to pursue the introduction of a similar licence.
Source: Flight International
