The BAVirtual PPL (VATSIM P1) course is an elementary flying course designed to bring a student from zero flying experience to proficiency in basic visual flying and manual handling techniques in preparation for multi-engine and instrument training. Subjects covered will include:
- Principles and Theory of Flight
- Aviation Meteorology
- General handling
- Visual departure and arrival procedures
- VFR flight planning and navigation
- Emergency procedures
The course is split between theory modules and practical flying lessons, carried out under the tuition of a BAVirtual instructor via shared cockpit software.
Supported simulators:
- Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS 2020) - Deluxe or Premium Deluxe version
The course meets all requirements for issue of the VATSIM P1 rating.
Course Duration & Commitment
The length of time taken to complete the course will depend to a certain extent on each individual's availability, the number of lessons undertaken per week and rate of progress.
There are fifteen air exercises and a minimum of one dual and three dual or solo navigation exercises to be completed during the course. Each lesson normally takes around 1hr 30 minutes, allowing for a short pre-flight briefing of around 10-15 minutes, around 40-60 minutes of dual flying and a short debrief of 10-15 minutes.
It is possible to complete the course with a minimum of about 12 hours of dual instruction, but 15-20 hours is more typical.
Candidates are expected to be prepared to commit to a minimum of one lesson per week, though allowances are made for normal leave/holidays etc.
Minimum Equipment List
- Joystick with twist rudder (or equivalent e.g. yoke/pedals)
- Please note that the course focuses on VFR navigation and thus we strongly recommend Orbx PilotPlus EGTB VFR scenery to enable successful identification of ground features.