Private Pilot Training in Bournemouth

Earn your Private Pilot Licence with expert training and personal support.

Courses

Welcome to Bournemouth Flight Training — the home of expert flight training in Bournemouth. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a Private Pilot or simply want to experience the thrill of flying, we are here to help you take off. We offer flexible PPL training, advanced flying courses and tailored flight experiences to suit your goals and schedule. Explore our courses below.
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    Intensive 3-6 Week PPL Flight Training

    Experience an efficient and enjoyable PPL course at a fully equipped airfield with radar, ILS, and professional facilities. We run 10 intensive courses per year and have never had a weather-related failure. Achieve your PPL in just 3 weeks with top-tier training and a smooth, successful experience.

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    IMC Instrument Rating – Train the Right Way

    The most valuable rating you’ll ever earn—if done properly. Poor training makes it not just useless but dangerous. Learn the right skills with expert instruction for safe, confident instrument flying.

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    PPL E-Exams – 100% In-Person Training

    No Zoom, no online shortcuts—just one-on-one, in-person teaching. Complete all ground school in just 5 days and be fully prepared for your exams within a week!

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    Microlight/SSEA Class Rating (National PPL Cross-credit course

    This course is designed for pilots who already hold a National PPL and want to add a Microlight or SSEA (Simple Single Engine Aircraft) class rating. It builds on your existing experience and allows cross-credit towards your new qualification — helping you expand your flying privileges with fewer training hours required.

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    The ultimate trial flight experience

    Discover the thrill of flying with the perfect introduction to life behind the controls. Whether you're exploring a new hobby or fulfilling a lifelong dream, this hands-on session puts you in the pilot’s seat under the guidance of a professional instructor. 

  • Close-up of a pilot wearing a headset in the cockpit of a light aircraft, focusing on the flight instruments. The view outside shows a cloudy sky.
    FRTOL Radio Licence – Full Course

    Get your Flight Radiotelephony Operator’s Licence (FRTOL) — essential for all UK PPL pilots who want to fly with radio. This hands-on course gives you the skills and confidence to handle real-world aviation communications like a pro.

our pricing programme

Private Pilots Licence (UK Part FCL)

Includes 45 hours flight training, Ground school, E-Exam test and one landing per flight. Excludes skill test aircraft hire, examiner fees, Radio license course/test fees. Extra landings/circuits billed separately. * Pre-paid every 10 hours of flight time. *PAYG billed per day.

Pre-paid £13780*

PAYG £14230*

IMC RATING

Included 15 hours flight training, ground school, written exam and one approach/landing fee per flight. Excludes skill test aircraft hire and examiner fee. Extra landing and approach fees billed separately.

£4975

Microlight/SSEA class rating (national PPL cross- credit course)

Included 5 hours flight training, one landing per flight, two ground school subjects and e-exam tests. Excludes skill test aircraft hire examination fees extra landing/circuit fees billed separately.

£2130

OUR STORY

Learn to Fly Bournemouth began with Derek, a much-loved instructor with years of flying under his belt. Today, James Harlow proudly carries the torch, having trained under Derek and built on that solid foundation. It’s flight training with heart, experience, and a personal touch.

join the success

Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our pilots.

Rob S
PPL in 6 weeks 2025

"James is an extremely knowledgable instructor. He knows how to get the best from his students, demonstrating a natural teaching ability he enables learning and success with support and genuine enthusiasm. Thanks for a great experience James!"

Tom B
PPL Graduate 2024

“I can’t recommend Learn to Fly Bournemouth highly enough. James was calm, professional, and truly passionate about flying. Thanks to his patient instruction and clear teaching style, I passed my PPL in just under 6 weeks. Every lesson was a step forward — I now feel confident flying solo and planning cross-country routes.”

Sarah L
Private Pilot Licence

“Learning to fly has been a lifelong dream, and James helped make it a reality. The intensive PPL course was well-structured and efficient, and I felt fully supported throughout. Bournemouth Airport is a great training base, and the aircraft were immaculately maintained.”

David K
Recreational Pilot

“From the very first discovery flight to passing my PPL skills test, the experience with Learn to Fly Bournemouth was brilliant. James is not only knowledgeable but genuinely encouraging. I appreciated his ability to tailor lessons to my pace and learning style.”

Mark S
Former RAF Applicant & PPL Graduate

“After training at a larger school with mixed results, switching to James at Learn to Fly Bournemouth made all the difference. The one-to-one instruction and attention to detail helped me progress quickly and pass my PPL first time.”

Emma J
Licensed Private Pilot

“James made learning to fly an enjoyable and achievable challenge. The flexible schedule, clear briefings, and emphasis on safety really stood out. I’ve already recommended Learn to Fly Bournemouth to two friends!”