Professional flying starts with professional knowledge.
The EASA CPL(A) theory course for pilots pursuing commercial single-pilot operations — from advanced piston aircraft and turboprops to light business jets. International training standards, personal instructor support and examination flexibility across EASA.
Built for professional single-pilot flying.
CPL(A) theoretical knowledge is designed for the privileges of a Commercial Pilot Licence. It covers the same 13 subject areas familiar from ATPL training, but at the knowledge level appropriate to CPL privileges. For pilots whose professional objective is commercial single-pilot flying, it can be the focused route.
Think aerial work, specialist operations, advanced general aviation and commercial operations in suitable single-pilot aircraft.
Choose for the career you actually want.
For many career-focused students, we recommend going directly to ATPL(A) theory. CPL(A) is not a lesser-quality course; it is a different regulatory knowledge level for a different licensing objective.
CPL(A) Theory
Appropriate when your planned professional flying remains within CPL privileges and you do not currently need ATPL theoretical knowledge credit.
- Commercial Pilot Licence knowledge level
- 13 EASA subject areas
- Strong fit for selected single-pilot career paths
ATPL(A) Theory
The strategically broader choice for pilots who may progress into multi-pilot aircraft, airline operations or want to preserve maximum career flexibility.
- Higher ATPL theoretical knowledge level
- Required on the route to an ATPL(A)
- Relevant before a first multi-pilot aeroplane type rating
13 subjects. Three structured stages.
A guided distance-learning programme combining digital study resources, progress testing, instructor support and scheduled brush-up before school examinations and the competent-authority examinations.
Operations & Human Factors
Air Law · Operational Procedures · Meteorology · Communications · Human Performance
Flight & Planning
Principles of Flight · Performance · Flight Planning & Monitoring · General Navigation · Mass & Balance
Aircraft & Navigation Systems
Aircraft General Knowledge · Instrumentation · Radio Navigation
A professional learning environment — wherever you are based.
Questions pilots ask before choosing CPL(A).
Is CPL(A) theory enough for an airline career?
Usually it is not the most efficient strategic choice. If your objective includes multi-pilot aircraft or ultimately an ATPL(A), ATPL(A) theoretical knowledge is normally the stronger route. We recommend choosing the theory level around your long-term cockpit objective, not only the next licence.
Does CPL(A) cover the same subjects as ATPL(A)?
The EASA examinations cover the same 13 broad subject areas, but the applicable learning objectives and required knowledge depth differ. CPL(A) is assessed at CPL knowledge level; ATPL(A) goes further.
Can I complete the practical CPL training elsewhere?
Yes. The theoretical knowledge course and practical training can be organised through appropriately approved organisations. We can help you structure the theory element around your wider training plan.
Not sure which route is right?
Talk to us before enrolling. We would rather place you on the correct long-term pathway than sell you a course you later need to extend.
From private pilot to professional cockpit.
Tell us where you want your flying career to go. We will help you decide whether CPL(A) or ATPL(A) theory is the better foundation.
