Zero to Hero: This is how you become a commercial pilot at E-Flight Academy!

Become a pilot with our Modular ATPL program

At E-Flight Academy we are often asked: "Can I become a commercial pilot with you? And what are the steps?" The answer is a resounding 'Yes'! And for the steps to take, we made this page for you.

In September a full-time ATPL class will also start. Limited availability!

Modular ATPL

A Modular ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License) is a flexible route to becoming an airline pilot where you obtain various licenses and qualifications step by step. Unlike an integrated ATPL program, this modular approach lets you set your own pace and combine training with work or other commitments. You start with a Private Pilot License (PPL) and expand it with additional modules such as Instrument Rating (IR) and your Commercial Pilot License (CPL), until you ultimately have all qualifications needed to work as an airline pilot.

Structured pathway

We offer a clear and structured pathway that takes you from zero flight hours to a professional commercial pilot. Our mission is to make your dream of becoming a pilot as sustainable as possible and prepare you for a successful career in aviation. We have mapped the steps as clearly as possible in the diagram below, taking you from Zero to Hero!

⚠️ Do you already have a PPL? Or are you even further along? Then you can of course join at your level and become the Hero from there.

☝️ Note! The aviation world is full of abbreviations. I.e.: Aviation = Abbreviation. On this page we have explained them as much as possible. Still have questions? Feel free to let us know!

Fastest Route

You begin your adventure by obtaining your Private Pilot License (PPL) with a minimum of 45 flight hours. Immediately after that you start the ATPL theory. You build flight hours by renting our aircraft. You will also obtain your Night Qualification (5 hours) and Multi Engine Piston (6 hours). After completing the ATPL theory you begin the Instrument Rating (IR) course. Once you have completed that, you start the Commercial Pilot License (CPL), which includes 15 flight hours. You may only sit the exam once you have at least 200 flight hours. After that you complete the 30-hour Multi Crew Cooperation (MCC) training via a partner, and you are ready for a pilot job at an airline.

At E-Flight Academy we guide you at every step, from your first flight hours to your first commercial flight. Our mission is to make your dream of becoming a pilot as sustainable as possible.

Private Pilot License (PPL)

Duration: Minimum 45 flight hours + skill test
Costs and detailed description
Theory: Approximately 150 hours + exams
What can you do with it?
With a Private Pilot License (PPL) you may act as pilot-in-command of a single-engine aircraft for non-commercial purposes. This means you can make private flights with friends and family, but you may not earn money from your flights.

ATPL Theory (+IR)

Duration: Approximately 750 hours
Costs: We help you choose the right way to complete this theory. That can be via e-learning or classroom. Depending on your choice we request pricing from one of our partners.
What can you do with it?
The theory for the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) can be started after obtaining your PPL and must be completed before you begin your IR. ATPL is required to become a captain at an airline.

Hour Building

To be eligible to take the CPL exam you must have at least 200 flight hours. Between your modules you therefore build additional flight hours. At E-Flight we try to complete as many trainings as possible that can be done during hour building as efficiently as possible.

Duration: Depending on aircraft type and the number of extra hours you need to add after obtaining PPL (>45 hours). The IR + CPL (after IR) represent about 65-75 hours. An indication is roughly 60-90 hours required after your PPL
Costs: You can rent the Pipistrel Velis, the Pipistrel Virus Explorer or the Bristell B23 with us for your hours.
What can you do with it?
After obtaining your PPL you must continue flying to maintain your skills and prepare for the CPL. This can be done by renting our aircraft. We prefer electric flights but you can accrue more hours in a shorter time in a fuel model. We ensure that all emissions are compensated.

Night Qualification

Duration: 5 hours
Costs and detailed description
What can you do with it?
With the night qualification you may fly at night. This is an addition to your PPL and allows you to fly more safely and flexibly, especially during the winter months or longer trips.

A-UPRT (Advanced Upset Prevention and Recovery Training)

Duration: 3 hours
Theory: 5 hours ground instruction
Practice: 3 flight hours, spread over 3 flights of 1 hour
Costs and detailed description

What can you do with it?
The UPRT course is essential for pilots to handle unexpected situations in the air. You learn how to prevent and recover from unusual aircraft attitudes, which is crucial for flight safety. The course consists of a day of theoretical training, followed by three practical flights on consecutive days. Each flight includes a thorough pre-flight briefing and a debrief to reinforce what was learned. This training is a valuable addition to your skills as a pilot and increases your confidence in complex flight situations.

Multi Engine Piston (MEP) Type Rating

Duration: 7 hours theory and 6 hours flight instruction
Costs: Depending on our partner. Contact us.
What can you do with it?
With an MEP type rating you may operate a multi-engine aircraft. This is essential for flying larger and more complex aircraft and can be done in parallel with your hour building, counting toward the total hours for your CPL.

Instrument Rating (IR)

Duration: 50 flight hours + skill test
Costs and detailed description
Theory: Can be started after PPL, must be completed before starting IR(A)
What can you do with it?
An Instrument Rating (IR) allows you to fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). This means you can fly in varied weather conditions and at higher altitudes, relying primarily on instruments.

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Duration: 15 flight hours (if IR obtained, otherwise 25) + skill test
Costs and detailed description
What can you do with it?
With a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) you may fly for payment. This means you can work as a pilot for an airline, flight school, or conduct other commercial flights.

Multi-Engine Type Rating (ME) and Multi-engine IR (ME-IR)

Duration:  6 hours flight instruction for ME and 5 hours flight instruction for ME-IR. The ME course could also be run in parallel with hour-building and count toward the total hours for the CPL.
Costs: Available on request from an E-Flight partner
Theory: 7 hours theory
What can you do with it?
You learn to fly multi-engine aircraft

Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC)

Duration: 20 hours practical instruction
Costs: Available on request from an E-Flight partner
Theory: 25 hours of theory instruction and
What can you do with it?
The MCC course provides students with realistic training in operating an aircraft with multiple pilots and multiple engines. The training aims for optimal decision-making, communication, task sharing and use of checklists, mutual supervision, teamwork and support during all phases of flight under normal, abnormal and emergency conditions.

Flight Instructor (FI) Course (optional)

Duration: 30 flight hours + skill test
Costs and detailed description
Theory: 125 hours integrated into the course
What can you do with it?
As a Flight Instructor (FI) you may train other pilots. This is an excellent way to build flight hours and share your knowledge with new pilots.

Total Costs and Duration

Total costs and duration vary depending on progress and chosen options. A rough estimate can be made by adding the costs of the different courses and required hours. The total costs for the full pathway, however, depend on personal progress. See the ATPL Costs page!

At E-Flight Academy we guide you step by step on your journey from Zero to Hero. Our experienced team is ready to support you at every stage of your training. For more information and enrollment, visit our website eflight.nl or contact us.

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