Overseas Pilots

Flying conditions and weather seldom prevent experiencing an opportunity to fly in an environment unparalleled in the world (an assurance given by so many overseas pilots). We are fortunate to have it all in our back yard and enjoy sharing the experience with others fortunate enough to make the choice.

Most frequently heard quote is: "This is the most amazing flight I have ever had."

There are three ways you, as an overseas pilot, can fly in New Zealand.

Either:

• Obtain a short term "validation" of your foreign licence, or
• convert your foreign licence into a full NZ licence, or
• fly with an instructor!

Fly with an instructor

If you hold a foreign pilot's licence and want to experience flying in New Zealand we are able to provide you with one of our highly qualified and experienced flying instructors for a unique mountain flying experience with you at the controls.

This permits you the freedom to fly without anxiety created by the absence of local knowledge in respect of navigation and communications.

Validation

To fly a NZ registered aircraft on a foreign licence the foreign licence must be validated for short term use. The process can sometimes be completed in only a few days.

We would be pleased to assist you with the process, and to provide you with local familiarisation training so that you can hire club aircraft.

Conversion

Should you be considering relocating to New Zealand or staying for a prolonged period it is possible to have a NZ licence issued using your foreign licence. However, there are still theory and flying test requirements, formal documentation must be submitted to the regulator, and you must demonstrate you are a "fit and proper person". All this will usually involve delays totalling at least a month before the NZ license is issued. To make the process more streamlined it is advised to obtain all Fit and Proper Person documentation before arriving in New Zealand.

NZ CAA documentation

• Pilots' page: http://www.caa.govt.nz/pilots/pilots.htm
• Foreign license validation and conversion: http://www.caa.govt.nz/pilots/Flight_Crew_Recognition_Info.pdf
• For UK pilots: http://www.caa.govt.nz/pilots/UK_Verification.htm
• For Australian CPL (not PPL) holders: http://www.caa.govt.nz/pilots/For_Australian_pilots.htm
• Fit and proper person: http://www.caa.govt.nz/Forms/FPP_more_info.htm

See also:

Recommendations as to why you should fly with us.

Contact us