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 often get the question: "Can I also become a commercial pilot with you? And what are the steps?" The answer is a resounding 'Yes'! And to show you the steps, we created this page for you.

In September, an ATPL class for full-time students 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 earn different pilot licenses and qualifications step by step. Unlike an integrated ATPL course, 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 build on it with additional modules such as Instrument Rating (IR) and your Commercial Pilot License (CPL), until you eventually have all the 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 out the steps for you 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 just join in and become the Hero from there.

☝️ Note! The aviation world is full of abbreviations. In other words: Aviation = Abbreviation. On this page, we have explained as many of them as possible. Still have questions? Let us know!

Fastest Route

You start your adventure by earning your Private Pilot License (PPL) with a minimum of 45 flight hours. Right after that, you start the ATPL theory. You build your flight hours by renting our aircraft. You also earn your Night Rating (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 take the exam once you have completed at least 200 flight hours. After that, you follow the 30-hour Multi Crew Cooperation (MCC) training through a partner, and you are ready for a job as an airline pilot.

At E-Flight Academy, we guide you through 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 fly as pilot in command of a single-engine aircraft for non-commercial purposes. This means you can take 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. This can be done through e-learning or classroom training, for example. Depending on your choice, we request the costs 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 start your IR. ATPL is required to become a captain at an airline.

Hour Building

To be allowed to take the exam for the CPL license, you must have logged at least 200 flight hours. Between your modules, you therefore build up additional flight hours. At E-Flight, we try to complete all training in the hour building phase as efficiently as possible.

Duration: Depending on aircraft type and the number of extra hours you still need after obtaining your PPL (>45 hours). The IR + CPL (after IR) represent approximately 65-75 hours. An estimate is that about 60-90 hours are needed after your PPL
Costs: You can rent the Pipistrel Velis, the Pipistrel Virus Explorer or the Bristell B23 from us for your hours.
What can you do with it?
After obtaining your PPL, you need to keep building flight hours to maintain your skills and prepare for the CPL. This can be done by renting our aircraft. We prefer electric flights, but you can build more hours in less time in a fuel-powered aircraft. We make sure that all emissions are offset.

Night Rating

Duration: 5 hours
Costs and detailed description
What can you do with it?
With the night rating, 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 on longer trips.

A-UPRT (Advanced Upset Prevention and Recovery Training)

Duration: 3 hours
Theory: 5 hours of ground instruction
Practical: 3 flight hours, divided into 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 one day of theoretical training, followed by three practical flights on consecutive days. Each flight includes an extensive briefing beforehand and a debrief afterward to reinforce what you learned. This training is a valuable addition to your skills as a pilot and boosts your confidence in complex flight situations.

Multi Engine Piston (MEP) Typerating

Duration: 7 hours theory and 6 hours flight instruction
Costs: Depending on our partner. Contact us.
What can you do with it?
With a MEP type rating, you may fly 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 needed 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 different weather conditions and at higher altitudes, relying mainly on your 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 pay. This means you can work as a pilot at an airline, flight school, or carry out other commercial flights.

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

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

Multi-Crew Cooperation (MCC)

Duration: 20 hours of 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 goals of the training are optimal decision-making, communication, task distribution and the use of checklists, mutual supervision, teamwork and support throughout 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

The total costs and duration vary depending on progress and the chosen options. A rough estimate can be made by adding up the costs of the various courses and the required hours. The total cost for the full route, however, depends 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 registration, visit our website eflight.nl or contact us.

Download our detailed brochure!