EASA and FAA Pilot Training

FAQ in Detail

The following FAQ summarizes our dual-license training options and conversion pathways between FAA and EASA. Details reflect our current procedures and partner policies; they may be refined based on your background and the competent authority’s rules.

Programs & Outcomes

1. What programs do you offer?

We offer:

  • Dual‑license training leading to FAA PPL → IR → CPL → ME and EASA Frozen ATPL (ATPL theory completed with CPL/IR privileges under EASA).
  • Conversion/validation both ways: FAA → EASA and EASA → FAA.

2. What is an EASA “Frozen ATPL”?

It is a CPL/IR with all ATPL theoretical knowledge (13 subjects) passed. It “unfreezes” to full ATPL privileges once experience requirements are met with an EASA operator (upon reaching 1500 hours).

3. Can I earn both FAA and EASA licenses with you?

Yes. Train under FAA in South Florida while completing EASA ATPL theory ONLINE in parallel. After theory and FAA CPL/IR/ME are complete, you complete the EASA conversion training program (15 hrs) and pass the EASA skill test with the EASA examiner (exam can be done in Florida too). 

FAA → EASA Conversion

4. I hold FAA licenses. What does conversion require?

Requirements vary by license and experience:

  • PPL‑A (Airplane): No formal training or written exam. EASA PPL skill test with an examiner is required.
  • PPL‑H (Helicopter): Minimum 100 hours TT. Pass written exams in Air Law and Human Performance (PPL level), then PPL skill test.
  • CPL: Complete EASA ATPL/CPL distance‑learning course and pass 13 EASA theory subjects (brush‑up may be online). Standard 15‑hour conversion flight course followed by EASA skill test. If IR is included, expect ~5 hours + flight test in Germany. High‑time pilots may qualify for a reduced flight module (case‑by‑case).
  • ATPL: If you hold an ICAO ATPL with a valid multi‑pilot type rating, no formal training is required. Pass 13 EASA ATPL theory exams and an EASA ATPL skill test on an EASA‑approved FFS for the same type. Approved simulators are available in the U.S. (e.g., A320 in Miami).

5. Where are the EASA theory exams taken and what are the limits?

Exams can be taken in Florida. Candidates have up to 6 sittings and 4 attempts per subject.

6. How much flight training is needed for conversion?

Typical conversion is ~15 hours (airplane); IR/aircraft‑specific modules may adjust this. Final hours are assessed individually by the ATO.

EASA → FAA Conversion

7. I hold EASA licenses. How do I obtain FAA privileges?

Common pathways:

  • EASA PPL → FAA PPL (Foreign‑Based): paperwork through IACRA website and flight review with FAA CFI (not required DPE).
  • Advancing in the U.S.: After validation, continue FAA IR, CPL, ME in the U.S.
  • EASA CPL direct conversion: FAA does not convert foreign CPL

Theory, Testing & Medicals

8. Can I complete EASA theory online?

Yes. Computer-Based Training (CBT) /online theory (≈800 hours) with required brush‑up sessions (30 hrs online brush up over ZOOM) before exam sittings.

9. What medical certificates do I need?

  • FAA: Start with Class 2; upgrade to Class 1 before the FAA CPL practical test.
  • EASA: Class 1 is required before EASA skill tests and, in some jurisdictions, before exam bookings. EASA Class 1 may be obtained in the U.S. or Europe.

10. Where are the EASA skill tests conducted?

Most airplane conversion skill tests can be arranged in Florida; certain IR/aircraft modules must be finalized in Germany. ATPL skill tests are conducted on EASA‑approved FFS, including options in Miami.

Admissions, Visa & Transfers (International Students)

11. Do you enroll international students? Which visa is used?

Yes. We enroll international students under the M‑1 visa. After admission and payment of required fees, we issue the Form I‑20 for your embassy interview. TSA clearance is required before flight training.

12. I already have an I‑20 from another school. Can I transfer?

Yes. We can process an official SEVIS transfer from your current school. Transfers are typically possible within six months of I‑20 issuance; we will coordinate timing to avoid travel interruptions.

Financing, Payments & Scheduling

13. Do you accept federal student loans?

No. We do not process U.S. federal student loans. We can refer you to private financing partners. Loan proceeds generally cover tuition/training only; living expenses are not disbursed from training accounts.

14. Can I pay as I go? Are deposits required?

Yes. Pay‑as‑you‑go and block‑hour options are available. Enrollment requires standard documentation and program deposits/fees (including I‑20 processing for international students).

15. How long does training take?

From zero time to FAA CPL + EASA Frozen ATPL depending on prior experience, weather, examiner/authority availability, and study pace: FAA CPL can be done in 6-9 months, additionally EASA will add at least 6-9 months more (only 800 hours of EASA Online theory will take approximately 9 months).

16. What happens if I fail an exam or take a break?

  • EASA theory: Up to 4 attempts per subject, maximum 6 sittings; overall credit validity ~36 months from the final passed exam (authority‑dependent).
  • FAA: Checkrides may be retaken after additional training and instructor endorsement.
  • Currency: Medicals and recent‑experience requirements must be current before tests; refresher training may be assigned after long gaps.

17. Do you provide housing? Where are you located?

Student housing is available on a first‑come basis. We are based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (approximately 40 miles north of Miami), close to the ocean and year‑round flying weather.

Costs & Estimates

18. What are typical costs for the EASA components?

Indicative figures (subject to change and personalized assessment):

  • EASA ATPL online theory: ~ 4,000 EUR
  • EASA written exams: ~$170 per exam (13 subjects; some combined)
  • EASA conversion flight training: ~15 hours ≈ $4,500
  • EASA skill test (aircraft/examiner/fees): typically a few thousand USD

  A tailored quote will reflect your logbook, recency, and required modules.

Getting Started

19. What are the next steps to enroll?

  1. Apply and upload documents (passport, pilot certificates, training records).
  2. Complete admissions & payment of initial fees/deposit (and I‑20 processing if applicable).
  3. Schedule a planning session to map FAA phases, EASA theory, and exam sittings.
  4. Begin training in Fort Lauderdale; progress to the EASA conversion module and skill test upon eligibility.

20. Who can I contact?

SkyEagle Aviation Academy – Fort Lauderdale, Florida 

Contact us at contact@skyeagle.aero

+1 954 807-4299

Author

Andrey Borisevich

Andrey Borisevich is the CEO, Training and Development Manager of SkyEagle Aviation Academy in Florida, responsible for new training programs, marketing, and business strategy. An aerobatic pilot, entrepreneur, and owner of the academy, Andrey has over 20 years of experience in aviation. He has flown more than 65 aircraft types and holds both fixed-wing and helicopter licenses. His YouTube channel, “Andrey Borisevich About Aviation”, offers aircraft reviews, flight training insights, and advice for aspiring pilots​.

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