How to Become a Pilot in Sri Lanka (2025 Guide)

Your Complete Roadmap from your First Flight to Commercial License!

Why This Guide Matters

Whether you’re just starting your aviation journey or already training at a flying school, this updated 2025 guide will walk you through the process of becoming a licensed pilot in Sri Lanka. From the Student Pilot License (SPL) to the Commercial Pilot License (CPL), we also cover how simulator training at Flyaway can save you hours, money, and stress.

Step 1: Get Your Student Pilot License (SPL)

To begin official flight training, you need SPL. This is your “learner’s permit” for flying.

Eligibility:

• At least 17 years old

• English language proficiency

• Medical Certificate from CAASL

Documents Required:

• Completed SPL application form

• 2 passport-sized photos

• Copy of NIC or passport

• NIB (National Intelligence Bureau) police clearance

• Valid medical certificate

Step 2: Train for Your Private Pilot License (PPL)

Your next step is the PPL, which allows you to fly for as a hobby or for non-commercial purposes.

PPL Requirements:

• Minimum 45 flying hours

  • 10 hours solo

  • 5 hours cross-country

• Theory exams in Air Law, Navigation, Meteorology, and more

• CAASL final flight test

Step 3: Work Towards Your Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

For those pursuing a flying career, the CPL is your key to commercial aviation jobs.

CPL Requirements:

• At least 18 years old

• Class 1 Medical Certificate

• 200 flight hours total

  • 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)

  • 50 hours Instrument flying

  • 20 hours cross-country

  • 10 hours instrument

  • 5 hours night

    
    

Exams Include:

• Performance & Planning

• Aircraft General Knowledge

• Flight Principles

• Human Performance

• Meteorology

• Navigation

• Radio Telephony

What Is NIB Clearance?

Before getting your SPL, CAASL requires a clearance from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), a standard security background check.

Apply via your flying school or the relevant department. It can take several weeks — start early!

How Flyaway Helps You Succeed

Flyaway Training Academy is Sri Lanka’s first general aviation simulator center, built to FNPT II standards. We provide structured simulator programs that:

• Reduce your flying hours in the real aircraft

• Sharpen your checklist and procedure discipline

• Prepare you for sim check-rides and emergencies

• Cut your total training cost significantly

  
  

We offer our own structured training programs for:

• PPL

• CPL

• Instrument Rating (IR)

  
  

You can use our simulator as a powerful supplement to:

• Practice emergencies safely

• Build confidence before real check-rides

• Review procedures with an instructor

• Save hours in the aircraft

Student Offer: First 30-Minute Session FREE!

Get a hands-on experience at Flyaway and feel the difference.

Final Checklist to Become a Pilot in Sri Lanka (2025)

License	Requirements	Key Notes
SPL	Age 17+, CAASL medical, NIB clearance	Start training under instructor
PPL	45 hours flight time, theory + test	Allows you to fly solo
CPL	200 hours, theory, A/Ls, Class 1 medical	Needed to fly professionally

Conclusion

Becoming a Pilot in Sri Lanka in 2025 is achievable with the right knowledge, plan, and tools. With Flyaway’s support, you can fast-track your progress, reduce real aircraft hours, and increase your success rate on exams and check-rides.

Ready to Fly Smarter?

Book your first simulator session now at Flyaway.lk

For more information and the latest regulatory updates, visit the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).