Is the UK the best place in the world to learn to fly? This week, we compare the sub-ICAO pilot licences across the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Europe, looking at flight training hours, medical requirements, aircraft privileges, passenger limits, night flying and instrument flying. We also discuss the challenges UK pilots face when flying abroad and whether greater international recognition of the UK NPPL could open up more opportunities.

In the news, we cover the latest developments following the Elixir aircraft accident in France, the CAA’s plea for us to get more involved with local airspace infringement teams, the Professional Flight Training Awards and the latest news on the Ellipse RG microlight powered by the Rotax 916.

Plus, Fantasy Hangar tackles the best aircraft for cockpit visibility. It;s just Ed and Ian this week (Dave's busy elsewhere), so who wins?

We also have this week’s SkyDemon tip, the latest flying weather forecast and upcoming aviation events. Do you think the UK offers the best route into general aviation? Let us know in the comments.

Links: SkyDemon - https://www.skydemon.aero/
Join the FLYER Club - https://flyer.co.uk/membership/ FLYER - https://flyer.co.uk/
Pilot Careers Live - https://pilotcareerlive.com/ Weather Coach - https://weathercoach.uk/
Adventure of Flight - https://www.aerobility.com/upcoming-events/2026/11/1/the-adventure-of-flight

#generalaviation #flying #airfields #pilots #aviationnews #pilotlicense