YOUR PATH TO THE COCKPIT

CPL - Examinations

Everything important about the CPL(A) exams: theory, practice, requirements and expiration of the commercial pilot license. All the information summarized.

CPL(A) – Exams for commercial pilot licence

The Commercial Pilot Licence (Aeroplane) – short CPL(A) – is the commercial pilot license for aircraft drivers and forms an important step on the way to professional flying.

It allows you to do that. Commercial flies, for example as a pilot in charter operations, for companies in the aviation service or as co-pilot in regular services (in combination with other ratings).

To obtain the license, applicants must both: Theoretical and Practical tests successfully graduate.

Theoretical CPL(A) test


The theory test is carried out in Germany by the Federal Aviation Office (LBA) carried out. It covers several sub-sectors covering the full range of professional flight operations. These include, inter alia:

  • Aircraft law

  • Meteorology

  • Navigation

  • Flight planning & Flight performance

  • Aircraft General Knowledge

  • Human performance (human performance)

  • Operational procedures

  • Radio navigation

  • Communication

The examinations are filed on a computer-based basis. Each flight school prepares individually for theoretical instruction and examination approval, with the contents harmonised throughout Europe according to EASA standards.

Practical CPL(A) test


For the skill test, required minimum flight hours must be demonstrated (depending on the training path – modular or integrated). The test consists of an Skill test with an independent, certified auditor.

The audits shall include, inter alia:

  • Precise flight manoeuvres

  • Navigation with and without technical aids

  • Emergency procedures & Safety management

  • Take-offs and landings under different conditions

  • Handling complex aircraft types (e.g. Retractable landing gear, adjustable propellers

The practical examination shall demonstrate that the applicant can act safely, responsibly and professionally at all times.

Requirements for examination approval


Depending on the chosen form of training (modular or integrated), the formal conditions vary. Typical requirements are:

  • Valid Class 1 Medical

  • PPL(A) Includes night flight qualification (for modular training)

  • Proof of required flying hours

  • Completion of required theoretical training

  • Examination approval by the training organisation