Community-youth, Youth

My Private Pilot License Journey

05 Oct 2023
Text by: Alvaro Tan, NUS Aviation Club

“A ‘good’ landing is one from which you can walk away. A ‘great’ landing is one after which they can use the plane again”

This was a quote from my flight instructor that I will go on to remember in the face of challenges when I fly, but first, I would like to share what inspired me to fly in the first place. It all started when I was 9 years old. Going to the airport with my parents and seeing planes take off and land on the runway sparked my interest in flying as a kid.

So how did I get started on my Private Pilot License (PPL) Journey?

After a little googling and research, I found myself enrolling into the Singapore Youth Flying Club (SYFC) in my secondary school days. And this club was where it all began. As I was too young to join the PPL programme at that time, I took part in other activities where I learned about the world of aviation through aeromodelling, flying of remote-control planes and flight simulations.

At the age of 17, we were allowed to join the PPL Program where we started with the Basic Flying Courses (BCF) – BCF1 and BFC2. These courses test the ability of the student to handle and maneuver the aircraft in the air proficiently.

Once the student makes it pass this stage, he/she will get their own blue flight suits (as shown in the picture on the left). Then, they will start to learn how to land the aircraft safely alongside other advance approach techniques.

This was the most challenging part of the course for we had to juggle between flying and taking 7 CAAS (Civil Aviation Authority Singapore) exam papers.

My PPL journey began during my polytechnic days, hence juggling school and flying was really tiring and challenging for me. However, with the encouragement from my peers, we pushed through the flying course together and eventually graduated with our very own pilot license.

Through this experience, I have forged very strong friendships and memories with my fellow peers. Hence, although my journey was not all smooth sailing, it was all worth it in the end.

All in all, I believe anyone can fly as long as they have the passion for flying and the perseverance to complete the journey to the end.

A picture of my instructor Mr Raman and I on the day I got my wings. Mr Raman pushed me as well as trained me to not only be a better pilot but also a better person in life. He would always remind me to never give up no matter how hard the journey is and to always push through in everything I do.

Photo Credits: NUS Aviation Club