General Flying Progress Test (GFPT)

There are two stages of training towards your Private Pilot Licence. Stage one consists of basic "ab-initio" training, where you will learn all of the general handling techniques required to safely take-off, fly and land a light aircraft. At the end of this training you will need to pass the "General Flying Progress Test" (GFPT), and will then be able to carry passengers with you in the local area.

Stage two consists of navigation training, followed by the Private Pilot Licence flight test. A pass in this test allows you to carry passengers while flying anywhere in Australia during daylight hours, and in reasonable weather conditions.

Course summary Stage 1

The minimum flight time that you will need to complete prior to attempting the GFPT is 15 hours dual training (with an instructor) and 5 hours of solo flying. These times are the minimums, and a more realistic average for someone to complete this training is 20 hours of dual flying and 8 hours of solo flying. All flying lessons are approximately one hour long.

After about 10 to 15 hours of dual training, most people are ready for their first solo flight. Taking the controls all on your own for the first time is a truly exhilarating experience. After this initial solo flying you will progress to more advanced training in aircraft handling, performance and basic navigation to take you to the GFPT standard.

Before every lesson you will receive a pre-flight briefing (up to about 1 hour long) which covers all the background theory for your lesson, and outlines what you will be doing in the air exercise. After the flight your Instructor will always take time to sit down with you during a post flight de-brief to discuss your flight with you, to outline areas to work on for the next flight, and to discuss the progress of your training overall.

Each lesson involves about two and a half hours of your time at the airport.

Theory training

During training towards your GFPT you will need to complete three theory examinations. They are: Pre solo exam, Pre area solo exam, and Basic Aeronautical Knowledge. All these exams are set by Basair, and are conducted at the school. Don’t be concerned about these exams - they are not difficult, and we will spend the time with you to make sure you know everything to pass with flying colours.

To help you prepare for the theory requirements Basair conducts evening and weekend theory courses to cover all knowledge required for these exams. These courses are held at regular times throughout the year. It is also possible to complete self study for these exams if you prefer.

Requirements for the GFPT course

• At the time of commencing the course you will need to complete an application form for the issue of a "Student Pilot Licence" - much like a learners permit for driving a car. The fee for the Student Pilot Licence is $10.

• Prior to your first solo flight you will need to pass a medical examination with an approved aviation medical examiner. Your instructor will provide you with a list of approved doctors in your area, and would be more than happy to make the booking for you (there are also approved medical examiners at Bankstown Airport). The cost of the medical ranges from $60 to $80, and your medical remains current for up to four years, depending on your age and health.

• You need to be a minimum age of 16 years on the day of your medical examination.

• Only two books need to be purchased at the beginning of your GFPT course. The first is your "Pilots Logbook" which you use to keep a record of all your flights. The second is the "Student Pilot Manual" - written by Captain Trevor Thom. This manual is your reference book to complement and expand on the theory you are taught in your pre-flight briefings. the cost of the logbook is around $15, and the Student Pilot manual is around $55.

• The Basic Aeronautical Knowledge (BAK) examination needs to be passed prior to the General Flying Progress Test (GFPT). This examination is conducted at Basair at a time to suit you.

What you can do after passing the GFPT

At the completion of your GFPT flight and theory training your Instructor will schedule your GFPT with our Chief Flying Instructor. Upon passing this test you will receive "passenger carrying privileges", allowing you to take family and friends flying. You can fly within the Bankstown "training area", which is a large area extending from Bankstown west to the base of the Blue Mountains, and south as far as Picton. All will agree there is a great feeling of pride and accomplishment when you show others first hand the skills you have learned in taking off, flying several graceful manoeuvres, finding your way around from the air, and bringing an aircraft down to a perfect landing (most times!)

Flying with Basair

Basair has a wide range of high quality, well maintained aircraft for you to use during your training. Training up to the GFPT level is normally conducted in our Cessna 152 aircraft, however you can use our Cessna 172 or Piper Warrior aircraft if you prefer. Our fleet provides an exciting range for you to progress to after you have passed your GFPT.

You will have your own flying instructor throughout your training. Your instructor will know how you fly, and will always tailor your course to suit your requirements. You are always welcome to visit our Chief Flying Instructor, who will be following your progress.

We allow you to complete your course at your own pace. You can fly as little as once a fortnight, or you can finish the entire course full-time in three weeks.

Social activities take a high priority at Basair. Flying is a way of life, and we make it as much fun as possible. From weekend bar-be-ques at the school, to fly away trips to Competition Days - there is always something exciting happening at Basair. Social activities are outlined in the latest issue of "Prop Wash" - the Basair newsletter, which will be posted to you, and is available at the school. Basair also has two "Wings Nights" a year where your efforts will be further recognised. You will be presented with your gold "wings" and a certificate for completing your first solo flight, and a certificate is also issued when you pass your GFPT!

Where to from here?

Some people are content obtaining their GFPT, and the freedom of flight they have obtained. Most people prefer to go on, and at least complete their full Private Pilot Licence (PPL). The PPL allows you to take people flying with you anywhere in Australia - removing the area restriction that is on you with just a GFPT pass. Some people also choose to progress beyond a Private Pilot Licence and look at a career in aviation with a Commercial Pilot Licence.

When do courses start?

Apart from the theory course all your flight training is personalised tuition, so there are no fixed start dates. Simply contact Basair in advance to make your first booking.

When you fly with Basair you have your own instructor throughout who will look after you every step of the way. They will be able to help you with all aspects of your training - from medicals to hiring aircraft once you finish your training!

How to get started

Starting to learn to fly is very easy. You could be having your first flying lesson today!

If you would like to initially see if flying is for you - then you can undertake a "Trial Introductory Flight" This is a low cost 30 minute flight where you will actually get to fly the aircraft - all under the supervision of a professional instructor. The flight can be taken at any time to suit you, and so is a great introduction to learning to fly.

Naturally, there is no requirement to take an introductory flight, and you are welcome to launch straight into your first lesson!

To make a booking for your first lesson, or an introductory flight, simply phone Basair around a week in advance, and talk to one of our friendly instructors. They will not only arrange your flight for you, but they can also organise your medical for you, as well as the issue of your Student Pilot Licence.

You are also most welcome to spend some time with your instructor discussing any details or requirements you have for your training course.

At Basair we make it really simple to get flying!

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