Golden Epaulettes Aviation - A globally recognized, top-ranking institute for ground training in aviation.

Requirements for Becoming an Aircraft Pilot in South Africa

Becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa is a process that involves a number of steps. To become a pilot, one must first obtain a license from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). To do so, the individual must be at least 18 years old and have passed the written and practical exams for the appropriate license. They must also provide evidence of their medical fitness in the form of a valid Class 1 Medical Certificate. Additionally, applicants must have completed the relevant academic qualifications, such as a Bachelor of Science in Aviation or an equivalent degree. Once these requirements are met, the applicant can apply for a license from the SACAA. Once the license is issued, they must complete a minimum of 200 hours of flight time and pass a number of tests in order to be eligible for the Commercial Pilot's License. After obtaining the license, the individual must renew it every two years to remain legally certified to fly.

4.9 out of 5 based on 800+ Review

4.8/5

Workshop Registration

4000+ Pilots Trained

World-Class Instructors

Live Online / Classroom

20+Countries & Counting

Program Name

Class Type

Batch Start Date

Enroll Now

DGCA Ground Classes
Preparatory Classes

Online/Offline

4th June, 2025

Enroll Now

INDIGO CADET PROGRAM
Preparatory Classes

Online/Offline

2nd June, 2025

Enroll Now

Overview - Requirements for Becoming an Aircraft Pilot in South Africa

Becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa is an exciting and rewarding career choice. It requires dedication, commitment and a good understanding of the aviation industry. To become a pilot in South Africa, you must meet the requirements set by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). These requirements include licensing, medical examinations, and other important considerations.

The first step in becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa is obtaining a license. There are three types of licenses: a Private Pilot License (PPL), a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). To be eligible to apply for a PPL, you must be 16 years old or older and have completed Grade 12 or equivalent. The PPL allows you to be the sole pilot of a non-commercial aircraft. The CPL requires a minimum of 200 hours of flight time and an ATPL requires 1,500 hours of flight time.

In addition to obtaining a license, you must also pass a medical examination. This examination is conducted by an approved medical examiner appointed by SACAA. These examinations are designed to ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to fly an aircraft. The medical examination consists of a physical, vision, and hearing tests.

Once you have obtained your license and passed the medical examination, you must also complete pilot training. Pilot training is conducted by approved flying schools in South Africa and consists of both theoretical and practical training. During the theoretical training, you will learn about aviation theory, aircraft systems, and regulations. During the practical training, you will learn how to fly an aircraft, including take-offs, landings, and navigation. You must also pass a flight test after completing your training.

In addition to obtaining a license and completing pilot training, you must also meet certain other requirements. These include obtaining a passport, undergoing security clearance, and having a valid South African driver’s license. You must also be willing to work long hours and be willing to travel.

Becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa is a challenging and rewarding career choice. It requires dedication, commitment, and a good understanding of the aviation industry. By meeting the requirements set by the SACAA, you can take the first step towards becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa.

Drop us a Query

Enroll now for Best Science Course

Full Name

Phone number

Course

We care about your data in our privacy policy.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

One-on-One Counselling Sessions

Choosing to become a pilot is a life-changing decision—and you shouldn’t have to make it alone.
At Golden Epaulettes, we offer personalized one-on-one counseling sessions with experienced airline captains who’ve helped thousands of students make the right career move.

Book a 1-on-1 Pilot Career Counselling Session

Your Career Deserves Clarity, Not Confusion

Choosing to become a pilot is a life-changing decision—and you shouldn’t have to make it alone. At Golden Epaulettes, we offer personalized one-on-one counseling sessions with experienced airline captains who’ve helped thousands of students make the right career move.

Assessment of your academic background & eligibility
Custom roadmap for Cadet or CPL path based on your financials and timeline
Clarification on DGCA medicals, flying schools, exams, and type ratings
Honest advice about scholarships, loans, and affordability for middle-class families
Mindset coaching to overcome fear, doubt, or misinformation

Complete Information - Requirements for Becoming an Aircraft Pilot in South Africa: A detailed look at the requirements for becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa, including licensing, medical examinations, and more.

Aircraft piloting is a lucrative and exciting profession, but it is not for the faint of heart. It requires dedication, hard work and a high level of technical knowledge and skill. Becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa is no exception. There are a number of stringent requirements that must be met in order to become a fully qualified and certified aircraft pilot.

The first step in becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa is to obtain a license. In order to do this, candidates must be at least 18 years old and have a valid South African ID. Potential pilots must also meet the educational requirements, which include passing a Grade 12 examination. Additionally, applicants must complete a minimum of 40 hours of flight training with an accredited flight training provider.

Once the educational requirements have been met, the next step is to pass an Aviation Medical Examination. This exam assesses the physical and mental health of the applicant and is an important part of the licensing process. The exam must be taken at a designated medical facility and includes vision tests, hearing tests, and physical examinations. The exam also includes psychological tests to assess the applicant’s stability, alertness, and decision-making skills.

After the medical exam has been successfully passed, the applicant is eligible to take the written examination. This examination covers a variety of topics relating to aircraft operations and safety, including navigation, meteorology, aircraft systems, and regulations. The written exam must be passed with a minimum score of 75%.

Once the written examination has been passed, the applicant is eligible to take the practical examination. This is a comprehensive assessment of the applicant’s ability to safely and effectively pilot an aircraft. The practical exam is conducted in an aircraft simulator and covers a variety of topics, including takeoff and landing, navigation, emergency procedures, and aircraft systems. The practical exam must be passed with a minimum score of 75%.

Upon successful completion of the written and practical examinations, the applicant is eligible to apply for a license. The license can be either Private Pilot License (PPL) or Commercial Pilot License (CPL). The Commercial Pilot License allows pilots to fly passengers and cargo, while the Private Pilot License is limited to recreational flying.

In addition to the license requirements, aircraft pilots in South Africa must complete ongoing training and medical examinations. Pilots must complete a minimum of 24 hours of flight training every twelve months and must pass an Aviation Medical Examination every two years.

Overall, the requirements for becoming an aircraft pilot in South Africa are stringent and require dedication and hard work. However, for those who are willing to put in the effort, the rewards are significant. A career as an aircraft pilot can be incredibly rewarding and can open up a world of possibilities.

Drop us a Query

Enroll now for Best Science Course

Full Name

Phone number

Course

We care about your data in our privacy policy.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Social Media

Join India’s Fastest-Growing Pilot Community – Learn Directly from Airline Captains!

Join the Golden Epaulettes Pilot Community—India’s fastest-growing network for aspiring aviators. This mentorship-driven platform connects you with experienced airline captains, including Capt. Deval Soni and Capt. Tomar Awdhesh. Whether you're just starting or preparing for your cadet pilot journey, this community is your gateway to expert guidance, peer connections, and real industry knowledge.

Join the GE Pilot Community

Stay Informed, Stay Ahead

Become part of the fastest-growing pilot mentorship group in India.The Golden Epaulettes Community is where aspiring pilots connect, learn, and grow—guided by experienced airline captains.

Get notified about exclusive webinars, career updates & DGCA changes
Connect with fellow aspirants, alumni, and mentors
Access curated study tips, updates, and aviation news
Engage with Experts and receive insights from Capt. Deval Soni & Capt. Tomar Awdhesh
Be Part of a Network of thousands of like-minded future aviators
Early Access to webinars, workshops.

Join the GE Community

Are you planning to pursue a career in aviation but unsure where to begin?Gain actionable insights from Capt. Deval Soni, an A320 Commander and mentor to over 3,500 aspiring pilots across India.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Books Preview

This comprehensive subject encompasses Air Law, Operational Procedures, Human Performance and Limitations, and Communications. Air Law covers international and national aviation laws, regulations, and licensing requirements. Operational Procedures include standard operating protocols and emergency procedures. Human Performance and Limitations examine the physiological and psychological aspects affecting pilot performance. Communications focus on standard aviation communication procedures and phraseology.