EASA Pilot Training vs Training in South Africa And Then Converting Licence to EASA

March 3, 2025
Articles & Resources

There are many reasons why UK and EU students start their training with LFC in South Africa:

Cost
Standard of training
Weather
Duration of training (12 months for dedicated full time students)
Experience and level of skills acquired
Excellent training aerodrome and hour building opportunities
EU Flight Schools are full and oversubscribed

LFC graduate pilots do stand out for their competence, ability and professionalism.

SA CAA Flight Training and converting to EASA Licence

Welcome, aviation enthusiasts! If you’re reading this, chances are you’re considering a career in the skies. There are many paths to take, but one common starting point is completing a SA CAA CPL Licence and then converting to an EASA CPL. This entails the following:

Writing the EASA CPL exams
Completing an EASA CPL Flight Test

Then…

Completing the EASA ATPL exams

EASA, or the European Aviation Safety Agency, is the regulatory body for civil aviation in Europe. It set standards for aviation training, safety, and operations, making EASA-accredited institutions a preferred choice for those wanting to work in the EU.

Lanseria Flight Centre flight school offers structured training programs that follow a rigorous curriculum designed to equip students with the necessary skills to navigate the aviation industry. The curriculum is based on the ICAO comprehensive standards and regulations, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands the industry. Lanseria Flight Centre has many graduate pilots flying for the world’s top airlines: Emirates, British Airways, Ryan Air, Lufthansa, Cathay, EasyJet, Qatar, Air France, Virgin, JetBlue, Air India, Singapore Airways, Jet Blue, New Zealand Airways, Oman Air, DHL, Qantas, Aer Lingus.

LFC Graduate Pilots working in the UAE do not require a conversion. LFC Graduate Pilots working in Europe, Australia, New Zealand etc convert their SA CAA CPL or ATPL to an EASA Licence.

Choosing to train at Lanseria Flight Centre flight school is by no means an easy decision. It requires significant investment terms of time, effort, finances and dedication. But the rewards are equally significant. Let’s delve deeper into the world of training and see why it’s worth it.

Licence Validation For Hour Building – A Popular Route For EASA Pilots

Some pilots from Europe and the UK choose to complete their hour building with Lanseria Flight Centre. In order to do this contact LFC at hourbuilding@flylfc.com and request the steps you need to take to validate your EASA Licence in South Africa. This will involve:

Send copies of your EASA Licence and last two pages of your log book to LFC so we can apply to the SA CAA to validate your licence
Make payment to LFC for SA CAA Validation
Obtain SA Class 1 Medical
Write SA CAA PPL Air Law exam
Dual flight and check-out

ICAO accreditation means that the institution meets the strict standards set by the agency. This is a hallmark of quality and a guarantee that the training provided is up to par with the best in the world. ICAO accreditation is recognised globally, making it a valuable asset for any aspiring pilot.

Furthermore, ICAO accreditation ensures that the training you receive is relevant and up-to-date just like EASA accredited training institutions. The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and ICAO accredited schools are required to keep abreast of these changes. This ensures that their students are always at the forefront of the industry, equipped with the latest knowledge and SKIllS.

Overview of ICAO ATPL

Let’s take a moment to understand two of the most common training programs offered: the ICAO ATPL and the EASA Modular ATPL.

The ICAO ATPL, or Airline Transport Pilot License, is the highest level of pilot certification. It allows pilots to command multi-crew aircraft for commercial airlines. The training for an ATPL is rigorous and comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects from aerodynamics and meteorology to navigation and air law.

On the other hand, the ICAO Modular ATPL is a flexible alternative to the ATPL. It allows aspiring pilots to complete the required training in separate modules, at their own pace. This is ideal for those who may not be able to commit to full-time training. Many of our Airline Flight Crew students opt for the Modular ATPL. Despite the flexibility, the Modular ATPL covers the same curriculum as the ATPL, ensuring that graduates are equally competent.

What to Expect from an ICAO Flight Academy

Enrolling in Lanseria Flight Centre flight academy is an exciting journey. But what exactly can you expect from it?

First, you should anticipate rigorous training. The curriculum is designed to be comprehensive and challenging.

This is to ensure that you are well-equipped to handle the demands of the aviation industry. Expect to spend a lot of time in classroom, simulator, and instructors.

Second, expect to be part of a diverse and international community. Lanseria Flight Centre pilot training in South Africa attracts students from all over the world, which creates a rich and multicultural learning environment. This diversity also provides opportunities for networking and learning from different perspectives.

Finally, expect to be guided by experienced and dedicated instructors. Lanseria Flight Centre flight school takes pride in their teaching their instructors, who are often seasoned pilots themselves. They are committed to sharing their knowledge and experience with their students, making the learning process both enlightening and inspiring.

Benefits of Training at Lanseria Flight Centre

Training at SA CAA schools, particularly Lanseria Flight Centre, comes with several benefits.

First, the quality of training is second to none. Lanseria Flight Centre pilot training school is renowned for their high standard, comprehensive curriculum, and excellent facilities. This ensures that students receive the best possible training.

Second, Lanseria Flight Centre school of flying offers a diverse range of training programs, catering to different career paths in aviation. Whether you aspire to be a commercial airline pilot, a flight instructor, bush pilot, corporate jet pilot, there is a suitable program for you.

Lastly, training in Africa offers the opportunity to experience different cultures and environments. South Africa boasts over 200 aerodromes, diverse countryside and spectacular terrains. This exposure can be enriching both personally and professionally, broadening your perspective and enhancing your adaptability.

Comparing LFC to EASA Pilot Schools: Factors to Consider When choosing between EASA pilot schools, there are several factors to consider.

First, consider the school’s reputation. Look for schools that are known for their high standards and quality of training. Check reviews and testimonials, and try to speak to alumni if possible.

Second, consider the curriculum. Ensure that it is comprehensive and aligned with your career goals. Look for schools that offer a wide range of training programs, from PPL to ATPL.

Third, consider the instructors. Are they experienced and well-qualified? Do they have a passion for teaching?

Remember, they will play a significant role in your training journey.

Lastly, consider the location. While this may not be the most critical factor, training in a location that you find stimulating and conducive to learning can enhance your training experience.

The Role of Lanseria Flight Centre in Aviation Training

LFC will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s aviation sector. Lanseria Flight Centre provides high-quality training in line with ICAO standards, ensuring that their graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the aviation industry. They offer a range of programs, from private pilot licence to professional pilot training.

Furthermore, ICAO flight schools are at the forefront of innovation in aviation training. They leverage top training standards, to enhance the learning experience. This ensures that their students are always at the cutting edge of the industry.

Conclusion: You now have a clearer understanding of what we offer for Your Future in the Skies with Lanseria Flight Centre Pilot Training School. From stringent ICAO standards to comprehensive programs like the ATPL this school offers a solid foundation for your aviation career.

Whether you choose a traditional EASA flight school or Lanseria Flight Centre, you can be sure that you’re getting some of the best training available. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are worth it. With determination, hard work, and the right training, you will be well on your way to reaching for the skies.

Remember, the sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning. Take the first step towards your aviation career by enrolling at Lanseria Flight Centre flight school today. Aim high, and let your dreams take flight!

Whether your dream is to fly for a major airline or to soar through the skies as a private pilot, understanding the different pilot certificates is crucial. With dedication, determination, and passion, the sky is indeed the limit.

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