Flying – James McBrearty, private pilot PPL

James McBrearty with Cirrus G-OSPY

Flying – A Personal Journey

Flying has been one of the great personal passions of my life. What started as a childhood interest eventually became a serious goal — one I pursued alongside a full-time career.

Training as a private pilot in the UK was challenging, particularly financially. I trained part-time over several years, moving between flying schools in search of more affordable options. Despite these hurdles, I eventually earned my UK/EU Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL.)

Early Interest

I’ve been interested in flying since I was young. I began flight training in the 1990s, towards a Private Pilot’s Licence.

The Realities of Training

Training as a private pilot in the UK was more challenging than I expected, particularly from a financial perspective. I trained part-time over several years, as I couldn’t afford to complete a full course in one go.

I moved between several flying schools in search of more affordable options, and most of the training aircraft were older and well-used rather than modern trainers. Despite these difficulties, I remained determined to qualify.

Building Experience

After qualifying for my Private Pilot’s Licence, I continued to build my skills and experience. I went on to complete an Instrument Rating (Restricted), Night Rating, and Complex Aircraft training with the intention of pursuing a Commercial Pilot’s Licence.

Over time I accumulated more than 350 hours of flight time, mostly in single-engine aircraft. I flew from many airfields across the UK and also internationally.

Looking Back

Looking back, I’m grateful for the journey. Flying taught me a great deal — not just about aircraft and navigation, but about discipline, preparation, and staying calm under pressure.

Although my path didn’t lead to a commercial career as originally planned, I’m glad I pursued it. The experience remains one of the most rewarding chapters of my life, and I still look back on it with great fondness.

Flying Experience Summary

Flight Hours

  • Total Time: 354 hours
  • Pilot in Command: 252 hours

Licenses & Ratings

  • UK Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
  • FAA Private Pilot Certificate
  • UK Instrument Rating (Restricted)
  • Night Rating
  • Complex Aircraft Rating
  • FAA High Altitude Endorsement

Key Milestones

  • First solo flight – March 1997 (Piper PA28 at Fairoaks)
  • UK PPL awarded – August 2000
  • First international flight – July 2002 (cross-channel to Cherbourg)
  • Spain to Morocco flight – January 2003

Aircraft Flown

Primarily single-engine aircraft, with the majority of hours flown on the Piper PA28 (277 hours), along with various Cessna models.

Final Thoughts

Although my flying journey didn’t lead to a commercial career as I once hoped, I remain grateful for the experience. It taught me valuable lessons in discipline, preparation, and decision-making that have stayed with me throughout my professional life.

I look back on those years with great fondness and appreciation for everything I gained along the way.