DTO (Declared Training Organisation): simpler regulation, offers PPL/LAPL, night rating, some class ratings. ATO (Approved Training Organisation): formal approval, full training range (PPL to ATPL, IR, type ratings). PPL from a DTO is identical to one from an ATO. Choose based on instructors, fleet, value — not just DTO vs ATO.
Evaluate: location/accessibility, fleet condition/variety, instructor quality/experience, total cost transparency, pass rates/average hours, scheduling flexibility, facilities, forum reputation (PPRuNe, EuroGA). Visit 2-3 schools before committing. A friendly, well-organised school with good instructors outweighs the cheapest quote.
Yes. Your logged hours transfer (they're in your personal logbook). New school may require assessment flights. You may lose access to previous theory materials. Administrative paperwork needs proper transfer. Don't stay at a bad school out of sunk-cost thinking.
