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LEARN TO FLY
Rodney Aero Club (RAC) offers Microlight flight training. This is different to a PPL (Private Pilot License). With the Microlight license you are able to fly a good many aircraft classed under the Microlight category. More and more aircraft are available under the Microlight category. Many of them more advanced and faster than regular GA (general aviation) aircraft. Please see below at the bottom of the page for some examples of Microlight aircraft.
With a Microlight license the main restrictions (compared to PPL) are: you can only carry one passenger, you cannot fly at night, you cannot fly over congested area, and you cannot progress to become a commercial pilot.
If your goal is a PPL, you can use the first 10 hours of Microlight flight training towards your PPL. Generally speaking the hourly cost of a Microlight flight lesson is about half the hourly cost of the PPL flight lesson.
To continue with Microlight flight training, there is a RAC club membership subscription of $120 per year, a subscription to RAANZ of $120 per year, and aircraft hire of $160 + GST per hour. This price includes instructor.
Note: April 2026 Fuel surcharge. Unfortunately because of fuel prices we have to add a $5 surcharge per hour. Cost is now $165 + GST per hour.
First step is to apply for a Novice pilot license, which includes an Application form, a Fit and Proper Person declaration, and a Medical (DL9), that is obtained from your GP.
RAANZ will verify and issue your membership and first license.
Congratulations, you have now become a Novice pilot.
Theory work is online at: www.raanz.org.nz
Go to Becoming a Pilot, for further explanation.
A RAC (Rodney Aero Club) instructor will guide you through the theory and conduct the online exams, in addition to pre and post flight briefings each session.
As aircraft handling skills develop ( usually after 10 - 20 hours ), and a pass in the Radio and Law exams, you will be able to fly solo in the local area.
After 25 hours of flight, and a Flight Competency test, you can become an Intermediate local Pilot.
After further exams of Metrology, Airmanship, Principals of Flight, Navigation, Cross Country planning, practice of emergency procedures, and a minimum of 45 hours, you can be ready for a flight test for an Advanced License, and Passenger rating.
Attaining a Microlight license is just the beginning of a new experience.
Being able to book and hire the club aircraft offers a wonderful freedom and flight skills and experience will grow with association of other club members and ongoing skills development with your instructor.
Please contact us at email admin@rac.nz to book.
Some examples of Microlight aircraft currently flying in New Zealand: https://www.bristell.com/home/
Enjoy
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