Resources — PPL(A)

Useful references, publications, and planning aids for UK CAA PPL(A) students.

Official UK CAA Publications

  • CAP 413 — Radiotelephony Manual: the definitive RT reference for the Communications exam and practical RT.
  • CAP 1535 — PPL(A) Syllabus: specifies the learning objectives for all 9 exam subjects.
  • AIP (Aeronautical Information Publication): airspace, procedures, and aerodrome data for UK aerodromes.
  • NOTAMs: temporary changes to airspace, aerodromes, and navigation aids — check before every flight.
  • CAA SRG publications: medical, licencing, and examination guidance.

Charts

  • CAA 1:500,000 VFR Chart — covers England, Wales, and Scotland in two sheets.
  • CAA 1:250,000 regional charts — higher detail for local area flying.
  • Digital chart applications can support UK VFR navigation when used alongside proper chart interpretation and pre-flight briefing.
  • Charts expire annually — always confirm the edition date before use.

Instructor Tip

For exam navigation questions, use a paper chart for familiarisation. Digital tools are valuable in the cockpit but understanding the paper chart helps you interpret what the app is showing.

Study and Question Banks

  • ATPL questions (BGS Online, Padpilot, Oxford ATPL): PPL-level questions are a subset — use the PPL-specific filter.
  • AFE Flight Theory for Pilots (Trevor Thom series): widely used PPL textbooks covering all 9 subjects.
  • Pooleys PPL series: alternative textbook set, popular at many UK RTOs.
  • Your RTO/ATO will have a recommended reading list — follow it and supplement with question banks.

Pre-Flight Briefing Tools

  • VFR Wise Pro briefing: NOTAMs, airspace, aerodrome information, and weather in one place.
  • Met Office Aviation: UK TAFs, METARs, SIGMETs, and SIGWX charts.
  • NATS AIS: UK AIP, NOTAMs, and SUP data.
  • ATIS: pre-recorded aerodrome weather, available by radio or online for most UK aerodromes.

Turn these separate resources into one clear pre-flight decision.

Pro helps you apply what this page lists by showing the current NOTAM, weather, and airspace picture together, so you can spot conflicts early and brief with more confidence.

Open Pro briefing