Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) Training Course in Melbourne
Your First Step into the Skies at Moorabbin Airport
The Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) is the most accessible, cost-effective, and practical gateway to learn to fly in Melbourne. Designed specifically for beginners with zero prior aviation knowledge, this CASA Part 141 certified program allows you to legally command light, single-engine aircraft as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) without instructor supervision. Upon earning your certificate, you are permitted to carry passengers within your designated flight training area, up to a 25-nautical-mile (25 NM) radius from your departure aerodrome.
Delivered by highly experienced flight instructors, RPL training at Goldwings Aviation combines structured dual flight lessons, targeted theory preparation, and real-world radio communications at Moorabbin Airport (YMMB). Training in Moorabbin’s dynamic Class D controlled airspace builds elite situational awareness and piloting confidence early on.
As a premier Melbourne flight school, we structure your RPL syllabus as a seamless, modular foundation. Every flight hour you log counts directly toward advanced milestones, including the Private Pilot Licence (PPL), Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), and professional aviation career pathways.
What You Gain with a Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) Melbourne
With a recreational pilot licence at Moorabbin Airport, you gain the skills and confidence to fly as pilot in command under a structured, beginner-friendly training framework. Our CASA-approved RPL training course in Melbourne focus on core flying skills, airspace awareness, and safe decision-making in real operational environments.
- Fly light, single-engine aircraft as pilot in command
- Operate safely within a 25-nautical-mile radius of your departure aerodrome
- Develop strong aircraft handling, take-off, and landing skills
- Learn radio procedures and aerodrome operations at Moorabbin Airport
- Build a solid foundation to progress toward a Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
How You Earn Your Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) in Melbourne
Start your aviation journey at Moorabbin Airport with a structured, hands-on training approach designed to take you from your first lesson to flying solo with confidence.
Discovery Flight & Assessment
Begin with a trial instructional flight at Moorabbin Airport where you’ll experience the controls firsthand. Your instructor will assess your aptitude and introduce you to the fundamentals of flight in a controlled environment.
Ground School & Theory
Learn essential aviation knowledge including air law, navigation, meteorology, and aircraft systems. This phase ensures you understand the principles required for safe and confident flying under CASA guidelines.
Dual Flight Training
Train in the aircraft alongside a certified instructor, practicing take-offs, landings, circuits, and basic manoeuvres. Flights take place in the busy Moorabbin airspace, giving you real-world experience from early on.
First Solo Flight
Once your instructor is confident in your abilities, you’ll complete your first solo flight. This is a major milestone where you take full control of the aircraft under supervision from the ground.
Flight Test & Licence Issue
Complete your RPL flight test with a CASA-approved examiner. Upon successful completion, you’ll be issued your Recreational Pilot Licence, allowing you to fly within defined limits across Australia.
CASA Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) Eligibility Requirements
- Be at least 16 years old to be issued the licence (though you can begin flight training at any age & fly solo from age 15).
- Log at least 25 total flight hours under a structured CASA Part 141 syllabus (minimum of 20 hours of dual flight instruction and 5 hours of solo pilot-in-command (PIC) flight time)
- Pass the internal pre-solo and pre-area theory tests alongside the official CASA RPL Theory Exam (RPLA).
- Hold a valid RAMPC or a standard Class 2 Aviation Medical Certificate.
- Complete a general English language proficiency assessment to meet standard aviation communication benchmarks.
Because Goldwings Aviation operates directly out of Moorabbin Airport (YMMB), your foundational syllabus includes integrated training for the CASA Flight Radio Endorsement, Controlled Airspace Endorsement, and Controlled Aerodrome Endorsement automatically. This ensures you graduate with the advanced radio confidence required to command aircraft safely within busy terminal zones.
RPL Flight Training Costs & Hourly Rates in Melbourne
| Aircraft/Ground School | Solo | Dual |
|---|---|---|
| Cessna 172 (C172) | $299 | $415 |
| Piper Warrior (P28A) | $275 | $415 |
| Theory | $100 | |
| Flight Training Course | Estimated Price | |
| Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) | $10,375 |
* All total prices exclude Aviation Medical, Aviation ID, and Flight test fees.
* Please note: the hourly rate excludes landing fee.
Train at Moorabbin Airport (YMMB) in Melbourne
Goldwings Aviation operates from Moorabbin Airport, one of Australia’s busiest and most dynamic training airports. This environment provides students with real-world exposure to controlled airspace, professional radio communication, and high-traffic flight operations from the very beginning. Located in Melbourne, Moorabbin offers ideal flying conditions, modern facilities, and access to diverse airspace, helping you develop the confidence and skills required to operate safely as a pilot.
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Meet Your Instructor
Muhammad Khalid
Chief Flying Instructor
Train under the guidance of an experienced Chief Flying Instructor at Moorabbin Airport. With extensive real-world flying and training experience, Muhammad Khalid focuses on building confident, safety-oriented pilots through structured, hands-on instruction tailored to each student.
Learn More →Contact Goldwings Aviation Australia
Visit Us
1st Floor, 35 First Ave,
Moorabbin Airport VIC 3194, Australia
Get in Touch
Phone: +61 400 462 610
WhatsApp: +61 400 462 610
Email: info@goldwingsaviation.com.au
Operating HoursMon–Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM
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Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) — Frequently Asked Questions
The Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) is a CASA-issued licence that allows you to fly light, single-engine aircraft as pilot in command within a 25-nautical-mile radius of your departure aerodrome. It is a common entry point for people who want to learn to fly in Melbourne and across Australia.
CASA requires a minimum of 25 flight hours for an RPL, including dual instruction and supervised solo flying. Many students benefit from extra hours depending on training pace and lesson frequency.
Yes. RPL students must hold a valid CASA medical certificate (often a Class 2 or Basic Class 2). If you’re unsure what applies to you, we can guide you before you begin training at Moorabbin Airport.
Yes. Solo flight is a key milestone in RPL training once your instructor authorises you. After licensing, you can fly as pilot in command within the operating limits of your RPL.
An RPL allows you to fly within 25 nautical miles of your departure aerodrome. With additional endorsements, you can operate in controlled airspace and at aerodromes such as Moorabbin Airport.
Yes. Many students use the RPL as a pathway to the Private Pilot Licence (PPL). Flight hours and experience gained during RPL training can be credited toward PPL requirements.
Flying 1–3 times per week usually leads to faster progress and better skill retention. If your schedule is tighter, we can still build a practical plan around your availability.
Yes. RPL training is designed for beginners. Our CASA-approved instructor take you step by step, from your first lesson through to the flight test, making it structured and accessible for new students.