Flight Training FAQs

Flight Experiences

Some commonly asked questions..

Learning to fly can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience. Getting your head around what’s involved can initially be quite daunting. Naturally, you’ll probably have a lot of questions.

Hopefully this page will answer some that you may have. If not, feel free to get in touch – we love to talk!

What aircraft do you HAVE?

The club uses PA-28 Warrior aircraft as the basic trainer. Other aircraft are available to those with licenses who wish to develop their flying skills. We have a highly professional instructional staff and members who are able to pass on a wealth of experience beyond the basic LAPL/PPL requirements.

Do you offer purchased of block HOURS?

No, we don’t and you should be wary of doing this with other companies. We’re aware that some organisations impose restrictions on the validity, which can result in block time purchased expiring before you get a chance to fly the hours.

Companies can go bust, meaning that you lose your money. Also, if you don’t like the training that is provided, you are tied to the company, as they already have your money. At Glasgow Flying Club you pay for each individual flight on completion. This allows you to match your expenditure to your personal finances.

Can I hire aircraft once I have my LICENSE?

Absolutely, once you have your license you can rent our aircraft.

Can I take aircraft away from Glasgow and spend time AWAY?

Yes, we encourage our members to use the aircraft to visit other airfields. Subsequently, our aircraft have out-of-hours indemnity for a number of Highlands and Islands airfields, which can be visited outside their licensed hours.

Will using a flight simulator help with my TRAINING?

Use of a flight sim can help, as it allows the practice of procedures and checks, while on the ground, saving some money. The club has invested in a flight sim, which is available for the use of members.

Can I convert my LAPL for a PPL?

Yes! You just need to undertake the “missing” instruction, obtain a Class 2 Medical and complete a skills test to validate your proficiency. The theory exams are the same for the PPL as for the LAPL, so you don’t need to sit any extra theory exams.

Is the club membership OPTIONAL?

Unfortunately, no. As a non-profit members club we require that all students become a member of the club so that everyone is paying a fair share towards the running costs of the club. Equally, your membership covers your insurance for use of our aircraft.

Do I need any QUALIFICATIONS?

Nope! All we ask is that you are commited to working hard at all stages of the process.

Why should I learn at GLA?

We love it. ATC are incredibly supportive and always do their best to fit our departures/arrivals in between their busy commercial traffic. The main benefit to flying at Glasgow is that zone transits will become second nature ..equally, it’s way more interesting flying with the big jets!

Do I need a MEDICAL?

You do not need require a medical prior to starting training. Although, this is required prior to your first solo.

That being said, if you have any medical issues that you think may prevent you from obtaining either the LAPL or Class 2 medical certificate, then we would recommend that you speak to an Authorised Medical Examiner (AME) prior to spending any money on training.

How do I START?

If you have no prior flying experience, then we always recommend that you purchase a  60 minute experience flight. This will count towards the minimum hours for either the LAPL or the PPL.

This will very much take the form of a first lesson, rather than a sightseeing experience. The reason we recommend this as not only does it give you the chance to see if flying is for you, but it also allows you to try us without the need to commit to a full membership. 

Come fly with us

We can’t wait to meet you!