FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Find answers to common questions about learning to fly with White Star Aviation, including recreational, private and commercial pilot training, course requirements, costs, medicals and what to expect throughout your aviation journey. If you need further information, contact our team and we'll be happy to assist.

Flight training

How is Part 141 Non-integrated and Part 142 Integrated flight training variable?

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority awards flight training facilities with an operator's certificate which outlines how approved training can be delivered. The applicable operator’s certificate granted can be Part 141 – Non-integrated or Part 142 – Integrated. The operator’s certificate specifies the type of training and minimum training requirements before an examiner can conduct a flight test and issue a licence and/or rating.

Let's consider the attainment of a commercial pilot licence and how the delivery of training to achieve this licence varies given the operator’s certificate.

Part 141 – Non-integrated. A training facility with a CASA Approval certificate for Part 141 flight training can issue a Commercial Pilot Licence pending the applicant has 200 hours of total aeronautical experience. 190 hours of which are conducted within an aircraft; with a minimum of 100 hours as pilot in command.

Part 141 operators can meet and assess competencies at any stage within their assigned unit. This entitles Part 141 operators to the flexibility of delivering training as best suitable for the individual, with consideration to external factors that may impede the structure of delivery such as weather.

Part 142 – Integrated. A flight training facility with a CASA Approval certificate for Part 142 flight training can issue a Commercial Pilot Licence pending the applicant has 150 hours of total aeronautical experience. 140 hours of which are conducted within an aircraft; with a minimum of 70 hours as pilot in command.

Part 142 is designed on a structured lesson by lesson syllabus with competencies that must be assessed and delivered consecutively with the syllabi.

White Star Aviation is a Part 141 Non-integrated training provider and has incorporated this approval certificate to ensure pilots are experienced, supported and have increased flexibility thruoghout their flight training.

What is the difference between a non-award Commercial Pilot Licence and AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation – Commercial Pilot Licence (aeroplane)?

White Star Aviation developed a Commercial Pilot Licence syllabus inline with our Part 141 approval certificate and we offer this training as a non-award Commercial Pilot Licence; this is simply the attainment of your Commercial Pilot Licence without additional study requirements or issuance of a Diploma qualification.

AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation – Commercial Pilot Licence (aeroplane) is a nationally recognised qualification gained post successful completion of AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation. It is important to note that every flight training facility will have a personalised syllabus for which their Diploma of Aviation is built upon and not all AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation – Commercial Pilot Licence courses follow that same training syllabi; they simply all achieve the minimum CASA requirements for attainment of licence inline with their CASA approval certificate.

What are the application prerequisites for training with White Star Aviation?

All student pilots must attain the following prior to conducting training: CASA Class 2 medical and Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC).

Pilots obtaining their Commercial Pilot Licence must meet the following prerequisites in addition to the above: Be 18 years old, Year 12 or equivalent qualification; Cert III, Diploma or Bachelor qualification. Successful aptitude screening, Practical simulator assessment, and student meeting. Attainment of CASA Class 1 medical

Pilots obtaining their Multi-engine and/or Instrument Rating must hold the following credentials: CASA CPL(A), Class 2 medical and Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC).

What does the enrolment process involve?

Candidates can submit an expression of interest form to info@whitestaraviation.com.

Candidates who wish to apply for Recreational, Private or Commercial Pilot Licence training will be invited to a student meeting. We ensure your intended training will assure you with the appropriate licence for your flying goals and discuss the training required to achieve this. A training plan will be developed, and a statement of fees will be issued. We are now ready to start your flight training.

Candidates who intend to enrol under AVI50222 Diploma of Aviation – Commercial Pilot Licence (aeroplane) will be invited to complete candidate screening; this process involves a student meeting, simulator screening and aptitude assessment. The student meeting is utilsed as a time for candidates to enquire into their intended flight training and the aviation industry – we value this time to ensure all candidates are prepared for the training ahead and are informed on their career journey ahead.

Comparatively, what is the difference between a Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) and a Private Pilot Licence (PPL)?

A Recreational Pilot Licence entitles you to act as pilot in command within 25NM of your departing aerodrome. An initial RPL does not entitle you to fly cross-country, carry passengers or enter controlled airspace; you can gain this privilege by completing additional training in order to achieve the applicable endorsement. RPL(A) holders can opt to undertake a navigational endorsement (RPLN), which will advance their cross-country privileges. A recreational pilots licence is purely recreational.

A Private Pilot Licence entitles you to act as pilot in command or co-pilot for private operations, including the carriage of passengers. You can attach advanced aircraft ratings and endorsements to your Private Pilot Licence, such as a MEA, IR, NVFR, low-level Rating and Instructor Rating. This licence is designed for those operating privately and require advanced ratings or privileges.

Flight training for Recreational and Private Pilot Licences is delivered as a full-time training program.

Proficiency and staying current

Can I hire a White Star Aviation aircraft?

White Star Aviation delivers full-time training programs across all pilot licence courses. Our resources are highly dedicated to the delivery of training, therefore we do not offer external aircraft hire.

Can I complete an IPC with White Star Aviation?

White Star Aviation assess suitability on a case-by-case basis. Considerations include your aircraft type, experience and recency. All pilots conducting an IPC in White Star Aviation aircraft must demonstrate proficiency in instrument procedures and aircraft type before a formal IPC can be conducted.