RECREATIONAL PILOT LICENCE
(RPL)
Learn to Fly with Murwillumbah Flight Training
Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL)
The Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) is the ideal starting point for anyone looking to experience the freedom of flight. Whether you want to enjoy recreational flying with family and friends or begin a career in aviation, the RPL provides the perfect foundation for your flying journey.
At Murwillumbah Flight Training, based at Murwillumbah Aerodrome, we offer professional flight training in the stunning Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. With diverse training areas encompassing picturesque farmland, spectacular coastline and nearby controlled airspace, our students gain valuable real-world experience in a supportive and enjoyable learning environment.
The RPL allows you to fly a single-engine aircraft during daylight hours in visual meteorological conditions (VMC), subject to the operational limitations of the licence and any endorsements you hold.
Many pilots use the RPL for recreational flying, while others continue their training towards a Private Pilot Licence (PPL), Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), or a rewarding professional aviation career.
Our highly experienced instructors provide personalised, competency-based training, ensuring you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence required to become a safe, capable and confident pilot.
Your Flight Training Journey
Learning to fly is a rewarding experience that develops progressively as your skills and confidence grow. At Murwillumbah Flight Training, your instructor will guide you through every stage of your training at a pace that suits your individual progress, with a strong emphasis on safety, airmanship and sound decision-making.
PHASE 1
Your training begins by developing the fundamental skills required to safely control an aircraft and operate within the aerodrome environment.
During this phase, you'll learn:
-
Aircraft familiarisation and cockpit procedures
-
Pre-flight inspections and aircraft preparation
-
Straight and level flight
-
Climbing, descending, and turning
-
Circuit operations and landing techniques
-
Basic radio communications
-
Aviation safety and situational awareness
You'll also complete several important administrative and regulatory requirements, including:
-
Applying for an Aviation Reference Number (ARN)
-
Obtaining the required aviation medical certification
-
Meeting English language proficiency requirements
-
Completing an introductory theory assessment
PHASE 2
After successfully completing your first solo flight, you'll begin operating with greater independence while continuing to build your confidence and flying skills.
Training during this phase includes:
-
Solo practice flights
-
Advanced aircraft handling
-
Basic navigation and flight planning
-
Operating beyond the immediate circuit area
-
Emergency procedures and abnormal situations
-
Further circuit and landing practice
-
Developing sound judgement and decision-making
This stage helps prepare you to safely exercise the privileges of the Recreational Pilot Licence while reinforcing good airmanship and situational awareness.
You'll also complete additional theory assessments to support your practical training.
PHASE 3
The final stage of training focuses on refining your skills and preparing you for the Recreational Pilot Licence flight test.
By this stage, you'll be demonstrating increasing independence and the ability to safely manage all aspects of a flight.
Training includes:
-
Consolidation of all flight manoeuvres and procedures
-
Advanced circuit and landing techniques
-
Local navigation exercises
-
Scenario-based training and emergency management
-
Flight planning and pilot decision-making
-
Preparation for the RPL flight test
Once your instructor is confident you've reached the required standard, you'll undertake the RPL(A) Flight Test with an approved flight examiner. The assessment includes both practical flying and an oral examination to demonstrate your knowledge and competency.
During this stage, you'll also complete:
-
CASA RPL(A) theory examination
-
Aviation radio qualification requirements
-
Aviation English Language Assessment
-
Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC) application requirements, where applicable.
WHY CHOOSE MFT?
At Murwillumbah Flight Training, we believe learning to fly should be both challenging and enjoyable. Training from Murwillumbah provides a unique combination of uncongested airspace, varied terrain, and access to a wide range of flying environments, helping students become confident and versatile pilots.
Our commitment is to provide:
Professional, experienced instructors
Modern and well-maintained training aircraft
Flexible training to suit your schedule
A welcoming and supportive learning environment
Clear pathways from your first lesson through to advanced licences and ratings
Whether your goal is to fly for recreation or build a career in aviation, the Recreational Pilot Licence is the first step towards achieving your ambitions.
Start your flying journey with Murwillumbah Flight Training and discover the unique experience of learning to fly in the heart of the Northern Rivers.