Learning to Fly

The Sherwood Flying Club Ltd has been successfully training pilots for over fifty years.

Learning to fly is not difficult but demands a degree of application and commitment. There are two levels of 'Private Pilot’s Licence’ (PPL) available, the EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) PPL and the less versatile LAPL (Light Aircraft Pilots Licence) - both of which we run courses for at the club. The LAPL requires less strict medical standards and can be obtained in as little as 30 flying hours, whereas the EASA PPL requires a minimum of 45 flight hours and a medical exam conducted by an approved CAA Medical Examiner. There are nine theoretical exams to pass for both types of licence and ground school courses for these are all run in-house at the club.

At The Sherwood Flying Club Ltd we have been successfully training pilots for over fifty years. Our instructors are all widely experienced and fully qualified to CAA standards. Our aircraft are maintained to a strict EASA schedule regardless of cost - safety is paramount - and are fully insured.

The Trial Flying Lesson

If you’re thinking of learning to fly you might wish to take advantage of our Trial Flying Lesson scheme. These are booked and paid for in advance, and can make a wonderful gift. Included in the price is a certificate to commemorate the occasion.

Immediately prior to the flight, the prospective student is given a comprehensive briefing by a qualified flying instructor who will explain what will happen during the trip. Once airborne the student will be allowed to take the controls while the instructor navigates, talks on the radio and generally ensures the safe conduct of the flight. He will demonstrate various aspects of flight, including turning, climbing, descending, straight and level flight and of course take-off and landing.

Post flight there will be a short debrief to enable the student to ask further questions and perhaps decide whether to join the club. You will be able to join the club on the same day if you wish. The membership year runs from June to June but we operate a 'pro rata' scheme where depending on when in the year you join, the fee will be reduced.

You can purchase and print a voucher on this website, by telephone on 0115 9811402 on club days (Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays) or you can call in to see us at the address below and purchase your voucher and book your lesson at the same time.

If you decide to go ahead, have a chat with your instructor and arrange a flying schedule to suit your availability and pocket. It's also a good idea to seek advice on which books and flight equipment you'll need from the club shop to help you prepare for your lessons.

You're certain to find the flying training syllabus interesting as you progress through basic manoeuvring to take off and landings and finally cross country navigation. You'll also experience the thrill and satisfaction of solo flying as for around one quarter of your course you'll be the pilot in command.

You may rest assured that you will be personally guided though the training and each step will be fully briefed and explained in advance to maintain best training practice and enjoyment.

EASA PPL & LAPL Ground School Subjects

Before qualifying as a pilot you will need to learn the theory of, and pass examinations in, a number of aviation-related subjects. These are:

Air Law

Operational Procedures

Human Performance & Limitations

Navigation & Radio Aids

Meteorology

Aircraft General Knowledge

Principles of Flight

Flight Performance & Planning

Communications

It's time to spread your wings

Book your trial lesson today

0115 981 1402 Book online