
The dream of piloting a plane attracts many people in France, but before taking off, it is essential to know the cost associated with obtaining a pilot’s license. Between the flight hours, THE theoretical courses and the exam fees, the necessary budget varies depending on several factors. In this fascinating universe, let’s discover together the prices to obtain the different licenses, such as PPL and theATPL, and let us prepare the way to heaven.
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The cost of obtaining a pilot’s license in France varies considerably depending on the type of license. For a private pilot’s license (PPL), it is necessary to count between €5,000 and €7,000, encompassing theoretical lessons, practical flight hours and exam fees. The training requires a minimum of 45 hours of flight, although many students achieve their matriculation after approximately 60 hours. For those who aspire to obtain a ATPL (airline pilot license), the budget can climb up to €80,000 taking into account the different training phases and required flight hours.

If you dream of flying the French skies and piloting a plane, it is essential to understand the costs associated with obtaining an airplane license in France. From hands-on training to exam fees, every step has a price, and it’s crucial to be well informed when preparing your budget. This article explores in detail how much it will cost you to realize this aviation dream.
The different pilot licenses in France
In France, there are several types of pilotage licenses, the most common being the private pilot’s license (PPL), which allows you to pilot small passenger planes. For aspiring pilots looking to build a career, there is also the Airline Pilot License (ATPL), which requires more extensive and expensive training.
The cost of the private pilot permit (PPL)
The total cost to obtain private pilot license is generally between €4,500 and €7,000. This price includes theoretical and practical training costs, as well as the flight hours necessary to take the exam. To obtain a PPL, you must complete a minimum of 45 hours of flight, although many students achieve their matriculation after approximately 60 hours of flight because of their need to learn.
Details of associated costs
Most of flying clubs in France charge between €85 and €155 per flight hour, depending on the type of aircraft used and the location. It is therefore vital to consider these price variations when selecting an aviation club. This average cost can easily add up, making it important to budget correctly.
The cost of the airline pilot license (ATPL)
Passing the airline pilot certificate (ATPL) is a more expensive project, with a budget estimated at around €80,000 for complete training. This amount may seem high but it includes several aspects of training, such as flight hours, advanced theoretical courses, and exam fees. To obtain the ATPL, you must also accumulate at least 195 flight hours in total.
The specificities of ATPL training
ATPL training includes an increase in hours phase which must be carefully planned, thus allowing expenses to be spread over a longer period. This requires time and patience, key elements to achieving this professional goal.
Other costs to consider
In addition to training costs, there are other categories of expenses to plan for. For example, it is necessary to undergo a medical aptitude examination with an approved aviation physician, which may also incur additional costs. Additionally, if you choose to take theoretical courses or access online platforms for your revisions, these costs may also be added.
In short, the path to obtaining an airplane license in France involves various costs, depending on the type of license desired. It’s essential to carefully evaluate your budget and prepare for the inevitable expenses to take the steps necessary to fly your own plane.
- Average cost of one hour of flight: Between €85 and €155
- Total cost for a PPL: Around €5,000 to €7,000
- Minimum flight hours required: 45 hours
- Cost of pilot’s license: Between €4,500 and €6,700
- Estimated budget for a PPL: From €8,000 to €10,000
- Cost of ATPL: Around €80,000 for integrated training
- Medical visit: Included in training costs
- Additional costs: Theoretical courses and exam fees to be expected
- Variable prices: Depends on the flying club and the type of plane
FAQ: How much does an airplane license cost in France?
What is the average cost to obtain a PPL in France? The average cost to pass a PPL (Private Pilot) is estimated between €5,000 and €7,000, including flight hours and theoretical courses.
How many flight hours are needed to obtain the certificate? To obtain the patent, it is necessary to complete a minimum of 45 hours of flight, although most students achieve their matriculation after approximately 60 hours.
How much does an hour’s flight cost in France? The price of an hour of flight is generally between €85 and €155, depending on the type of aircraft and the flying club.
What budget should you plan for the ATPL? To obtain the license ATPL (Line Pilot), you need to allow a budget of approximately €80,000, including flight hours and training.
Are medical examination fees included in the cost? The costs of the medical aptitude examination, carried out by a licensed aviation physician, are generally in addition to the cost of training.
Can you become a pilot without a particular level of education? It is not necessary to have a specific level of studies to pass the certificate, only the motivation and an adequate budget are required.
What does it cost to obtain an airplane license in France?
The dream of flying a plane is becoming more and more accessible, but we must not forget that it involves financial investments significant. In France, the price of a flight time generally oscillates between €85 and €155, which is determined by various factors such as the type of aircraft and the reputation of the chosen flying club.
For those who aspire to obtain their private pilot license (PPL), they will have to expect costs totaling between €5,000 and €7,000 minimum. This sum includes the theoretical courses, practical flight times as well as exam fees. Nevertheless, it should be noted that most student pilots eventually attain their license after approximately 60 hours of flight, thus bringing the final amount to a range closer to €8,000 to €10,000.
If candidates dream of becoming airline pilots, the situation becomes even more complex. To obtain the ATPL license (Airline Transport Pilot License), the budget can reach new heights, with costs amounting to approximately €80,000. This amount takes into account a series of training phases and a significant number of flight hours to acquire, which may require several years of investment.
In summary, although the journey to air piloting requires a significant financial commitment, those who are passionate often find that the reward outweighs the expense. The experience of viewing the world from the skies is priceless and offers an unparalleled adventure.