Light aircraft pilot licence

Separate LAPLs are issued for aeroplanes, helicopters, sailplanes (gliders) and balloons. For aeroplanes, holders of an LAPL may act as pilot in command of single-engine piston aeroplanes or touring motor gliders with a maximum certificated take-off mass of 2,000 kg or less, carrying a maximum of 3 passengers. For helicopters, holders of an LAPL may act as pilot in command of single-engine helicopters with a maximum certificated take-off mass of 2,000 kg or less, carrying a maximum of 3 passengers. For sailplanes, holders of an LAPL may act as pilot in command of sailplanes and powered sailplanes. For balloons, holders of an LAPL may act as pilot in command of hot-air balloons or hot-air airships with a maximum of 3,400 m3 envelope capacity or gas balloons with a maximum of 1,260 m3, carrying a maximum of 3 passengers. ==Requirements==

LAPL applicants must be at least 17 years old for aeroplanes and helicopters, or 16 years old for sailplanes and balloons. • 12 hours of flight time as pilot in charge, including 12 take-offs and landings, • refresher training of at least 1 hour of total flight time with an instructor. ==Legal basis==

The LAPL was introduced in 2012. In October 2025 the UK LAPL(A) was superseded by the NPPL, with no new licenses issued by the CAA. United Kingdom When the United Kingdom left the EASA system at the end of 2020, EASA Part-FCL was retained in UK law as UK Part-FCL. As such, the UK continues to issue LAPLs, however these are not compatible with the EASA LAPL. ==See also==