Flight school
Learn to fly on the Ligurian Riviera, with club instructors and modern aircraft.
From the first flight to the licence
The Aero Club flight school is run by Cesare Patrono, director and chief instructor. Training takes place on modern aircraft designed for the purpose: the CSA PS28 Cruz, with state-of-the-art avionics, and the Piper PA-28 Cadet.
- Courses for the private pilot licence (PPL) and for sport recreational flying (VDS)
- Club instructors
- Modern, well-maintained aircraft
- A quiet airport, with no commercial traffic
- Unique scenery between sea and mountains
For current courses, requirements and costs, write to the office or call +39 0182 582 919. Courses are normally held in Italian: please ask the office whether English-speaking instruction is available.
How to become a pilot
The club's school, registered with ENAC (the Italian civil aviation authority; Registered Training Organisation I/RF/030), prepares students for the private pilot licence (aeroplanes). Below is a summary of the path, based on the club's student guide.
Getting started
- Enrolment in the Aero Club as a member
- Minimum age 16, no upper limit
- Class 2 medical examination
- Parental consent for minors
Theory course
About six months, with evening lessons twice a week. Subjects: air law, aircraft general knowledge, performance, meteorology, human performance, navigation, operational procedures, principles of flight and communications. Multiple-choice exam in front of ENAC inspectors.
Flight training
At least 45 hours of flight time, of which at least 25 dual with an instructor and 10 solo. The course includes navigation, simulated emergencies and planning. On average the licence is obtained in about a year.
Test and licence
The skill test includes a navigation flight of at least one hour. The licence allows VFR flight with passengers; ratings such as retractable undercarriage and variable-pitch propeller can be added.
Indicative information. Taken from the club's student guide; regulations may have changed. Always confirm requirements, costs and schedules with the office. If you already hold a licence issued abroad, please contact us before planning anything: recognition and validation are handled by ENAC.
Try a flight
Never flown in a small aircraft? The best way to start is a trial flight with an instructor.
Come and visit
See the clubhouse, hangar and aircraft at Villanova d'Albenga airport.
Briefing
The instructor explains the flight and its phases.
The flight
You take off and try the controls, supported by the instructor.
Debriefing
We review the experience and, if you like, the path to the licence.
Why learn here
An ideal field
Runway on flat ground, with the circuit north of the field and AFIS service from Albenga Info.
Varied experience
From the sea to the Ligurian Alps: every lesson offers different scenery and conditions.
A lively club
Air shows, meetings and gatherings: the school is part of a community of enthusiasts.
Ready to come aboard?
Visit us at Villanova d'Albenga airport or write to us: we will guide you through your first flight.