Flying in Singapore

Information on the Singapore-restricted Private Pilot Licence (PPL) and the process to be followed in order to qualify to fly light aircraft in Singapore airspace and how to get a full PPL...

There are certain criteria to be met in order to apply for and gain a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) in Singapore and Malaysia.

Learning to Fly

Step 1: Apply for a Student Pilot Licence (SPL). This is available to a person from the age of 16. The application should be made to the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). A medical certificate from a medical examiner authorised by the CAAS is required.

Once a person has an SPL, flight and ground training can begin in preparation for a Singapore Restricted PPL. A Full PPL is only obtainable if a person completes the Pilot Navigation Training which is available in Malaysia (but not in Singapore).

To get a Singapore Restricted PPL a person must:

  • Be at least 17 years of age
  • Hold a valid medical certificate and an SPL
  • Have a minimum of 43 hours flying time, consisting of a minimum 10 hours solo (3 hours of which must be cross country). Of the 33 hours remaining a minimum of 20 hours must be dual control (four hours of which must be instrument instruction)
  • Complete the course syllabus
  • Pass the following written exams within six months from the date of the first attempt:
    • Air law
    • Navigation & Meteorology
    • Radio Theory
    • General
    • Radio Practical
  • Pass a final flight test

The Singapore Restricted PPL can be converted to a Full PPL on successful completion of the Pilot Navigation Training

Conversion to a UK licence CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) or American licence FAA (Federal Aviation Authority) or an Australian licence usually requires the successful completion of an air law test.

Flying Clubs

The Republic Of Singapore Flying Club

The Singapore Flying Club was established in April 1928 and is based in Seletar. It is one of the oldest flying clubs in this part of the world.

The club currently operates two aircraft, A TB-9 Tampico and a TB-200 Tobago. It also has a FRASCA 103 simulator.

Some clubs, such as The British Club, have a flying section which offer a special rate for joining the Singapore Flying Club.