In Australia, the Recreational Pilot Certificate (RPC) and the Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) are two separate pilot licences that have different requirements and limitations.
The RPC is a pilot certificate that allows pilots to fly ultralight aircraft in Australia. The requirements for obtaining an RPC are less stringent than those for obtaining an RPL, and it typically takes less time and money to obtain an RPC. However, pilots with an RPC are limited to flying ultralight aircraft only, and they are not allowed to fly in controlled airspace or carry passengers.
On the other hand, the RPL is a pilot licence that allows pilots to fly light aircraft in Australia for recreational purposes. The requirements for obtaining an RPL are more rigorous than those for obtaining an RPC, and pilots with an RPL are allowed to fly in controlled airspace and carry passengers.
The RPL requires a minimum of 25 hours of flight time, including at least 20 hours of dual flight training with a flight instructor and at least five hours of solo flight time. Additionally, pilots must pass a flight test with a CASA-approved examiner and meet specific medical and English language proficiency requirements.
Overall, the key difference between an RPC and an RPL in Australia is that the RPC allows pilots to fly ultralight aircraft only, while the RPL allows pilots to fly light aircraft for recreational purposes, subject to specific limitations and requirements.
