How to Become a Pilot in Serbia

Becoming a pilot is a rewarding yet demanding journey that requires dedication, discipline, and lifelong learning. Whether your goal is to fly commercially, recreationally, or in the military, Serbia offers a clear and structured pathway to obtaining all categories of pilot licenses — in compliance with European (EASA) and international (ICAO) standards.

Basic Requirements

  • Minimum age: 16 to begin training; 18 to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL)
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Medical certificate: Class 1 (for professional licenses) or Class 2 (for recreational flying)
  • English proficiency: Minimum ICAO Level 4
  • Physical & mental health: Stable condition and good fitness level

Pathway to a Flying Career

1. Student Pilot License (SPL)

Your journey begins by obtaining an SPL, which allows you to take practical flight training with an instructor.

2. Private Pilot License (PPL)

  • Duration: 3–6 months
  • Theoretical training: Aerodynamics, meteorology, navigation, flight rules, etc.
  • Practical training: Minimum of 45 flight hours, including solo flights
  • Privileges: Fly single-engine aircraft for personal and non-commercial use

3. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

  • Requirement: At least 150 total flight hours
  • Privileges: Paid flying, employment with charter or airline operators

4. Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

  • Requirement: At least 1,500 total flight hours
  • Privileges: Captain roles on commercial airliners

Additional Ratings

  • IR (Instrument Rating) – for flying in low visibility
  • MEP (Multi-Engine Piston) – to operate multi-engine aircraft
  • NVFR (Night VFR) – for night flying under visual rules
  • FI / IRI / CRI – to become a flight instructor

Flight Schools in Serbia

Vazduhoplovna akademija Beograd (Vršac)

  • Programs: PPL, CPL, ATPL, IR
  • Fleet: Cessna 172S, Cessna 310, FNPT II
  • Website: vakademija.edu.rs

Pegaz Pilot Academy

  • Programs: PPL, CPL, ATPL, IFR
  • Online theory, international instructors
  • Website: pegazair.rs

Nikita Aviation

Prince Aviation Training Center

  • Programs: PPL, CPL, ATPL, IR, MEP, FI
  • Fleet: Cessna 172, Tecnam P2006T, Piper PA44
  • Website: princeaviation.com

Helimaster Flight School

  • Specialties: Helicopter and fixed-wing training
  • Location: Heliport Dobanovci
  • Website: theflyingengineer.com

Linx Aviation

  • Specialties: ICAO to EASA license conversion
  • Phone: +381 60 355 36 64
  • Website: linxaviation.rs

Military Pilot Career

The Serbian Ministry of Defense periodically opens recruitment for military pilot training. Eligible candidates must:

  • Be under 27 years of age
  • Have completed a relevant university degree
  • Pass medical, psychological, and security checks

The training includes parachuting, ground school, and flight phases. Top candidates may pursue a long-term military flying career.
Learn more at: mod.gov.rs

Tips for Aspiring Pilots

  • Visit local aeroclubs: Gain exposure through gliding, model aviation, or observation flights
  • Ask questions: Speak with instructors and students to get firsthand insight
  • Plan your finances: Flying school is a major investment — consider scholarships or staged training
  • Stay fit: Maintain excellent physical and mental health to meet licensing requirements