Frequently Asked Questions

What do I require to start a course?

Students should be in procession of a valid JAA licence with a MEPL endorsement and IR; they do not need to be valid

I only have a few hundred hours, can I still complete a course?

Yes.

How long does it take?

The minimum course requirement is 3 days ground school (20hours) and 8 hours flight training followed by a skills test. Students usually complete everything in 6 days. If you are completing the abridged course this is usually finished within 4 days.

What are the extras?

Our courses have no hidden extras. You will have to budget for accommodation and food at around £50/day.

How do I qualify for the abridged course?

The abridged course is designed for those pilots who have 500+ hours on turbine or jet aircraft.

Do I need a single pilot IR?

You must have held a single pilot IR. Your IR will be revalidated as part of your licence skills test.

I haven’t flown for sometime is this a problem?

A great deal depends on past experience. If a student is not in current flying practice we recommend a few sessions in a simulator.

I have been offered a job as a co-pilot do I still need a type rating?

Yes. You cannot act as a member of a crew unless you hold a valid type rating.

Can I complete the ground school and do the flight training at a later date?

Yes. Exams are valid for 12 months, flight training and the licence skills test (LST) must be completed within the 12 month period.

Can I use my own or my employer’s aircraft?

Yes, however Bristol Flying Centre approvals are based on its facilities in Bristol therefore training must commence/finish in Bristol.

Do you use simulators?

No. If a student has a problem with procedures we will use an FNPT (11).

How often do you run courses?

BFC operates 7 days a week, 364 days per year; we run courses on demand and try to meet our client’s requirements. This includes weekends and nights if required.

Are the King Air and Citation Jet single pilot aeroplanes?

Yes, both the King Air and Citation Jet are single pilot aeroplanes. In Europe no jet can be operated public transport single crew therefore the Citation is a single pilot aircraft flown multi crew. The King Air is a turbo prop and can therefore be flown single crew however many operators are becoming 2 crew. In general terms a Captain for either aircraft will need 1500 hours total time, 500 hours multi and 50 hours on type. This is very much a general rule of thumb and will be dictated by the operators own requirements and those of their insurers.

How do I book a course?

Once we have agreed a date we ask that you pay a deposit of £1500 + VAT to secure your booking. The balance of your course is payable prior to the commencement of flight training.

How much does it cost?

All costs can be found on our web site: Super King Air B200, Citation Jet C525.