Theoretical exams for the PPL(A) license at the Civil Aviation Authority
Theory exams for the PPL(A) license in Poland are administered by Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and are a mandatory part of the flight training process. A candidate may take the exams after completing theoretical training at an approved ATO or DTO.
Scope of the theory exams
The PPL(A) written exam covers 9 items, in accordance with EASA regulations (Part-FCL):
- Aviation Law
- Human Performance: Capabilities and Limitations
- Meteorology
- Communications (VFR)
- Flight Rules
- Operating Procedures
- Performance and flight planning
- Navigation
- General knowledge of aircraft
The exams are administered in the form of single-choice tests in the computer system. Each course is graded separately.
Passing criteria
- Minimum passing score: 75% correct answers for each subject
- Exams must be passed within a specified time frame (the session and deadline limits are set forth in ULC/EASA regulations)
- Once all courses have been passed, the grades serve as the basis for admission to the practical exam
Practical Exam (Skill Test) for the PPL(A) license
The practical exam, known as Skill Test... is the final stage of the process of obtaining a PPL(A) license. It takes place after completing the flight training and passing the written exams.
The practical exam procedure
The exam is administered by FE(A) flight examiner authorized by the Civil Aviation Authority (ULC). It consists of two main parts:
1. Ground segment (briefing)
- review of documents (student license, aviation medical examination, flight hours)
- flight planning
- questions on procedures, performance, meteorology, and aviation law
- Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM)
2. The aerial section
The exam covers, among other things:
- pre-flight preparation and checklists
- basic maneuvers (turns, level flight, stalls)
- emergencies (e.g., engine failure)
- circling and landing approaches
- VFR flight
- proper radio communication
- adherence to safety rules and situational awareness
Evaluation criteria
The examiner evaluates:
- proper piloting technique
- knowledge of procedures
- operational safety
- flight management and decision-making
If a student fails a portion of the exam, they may retake it in accordance with the rules established by the Civil Aviation Authority (ULC).
The Importance of Exams in the PPL(A) Training Process
The theoretical and practical exams at the Civil Aviation Authority (ULC) are designed to confirm that the candidate:
- has the required aviation knowledge,
- is able to safely conduct VFR flights as pilot-in-command,
- understands the responsibilities that come with holding a PPL(A) license.
Upon successful completion of both stages and fulfillment of the formal requirements, the Civil Aviation Authority issues Private Pilot License (PPL(A)).