Bahrain CAA Pilot Licensing Guide: From Initial License to Renewals Explained

Embarking on a pilot career in Bahrain requires clear understanding and adherence to regulations set by the Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA). This comprehensive guide details obtaining, converting, and renewing pilot licenses under Bahrain CAA guidelines, ensuring pilots can maintain compliance and achieve their aviation ambitions smoothly.

Understanding Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA)

The Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA) operates under the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and regulates civil aviation activities in Bahrain. Its duties include issuing pilot licenses, overseeing aviation safety, and ensuring compliance with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Access the official eAIP Bahrain FIR through the Bahrain CAA Aeronautical Information Publication page to stay updated on aeronautical regulations and procedures eAIP Bahrain FIR PDF (see Chapter 4 for digital AIP guidance) 

For in-depth reference to aeronautical information procedures and quality control standards, consult the Bahrain Aeronautical Information Service Manual AIS Manual 2024 PDF 

Types of Pilot Licenses Issued by Bahrain CAA

Private Pilot License (PPL)

• Minimum Age: 17

• Medical Requirement: Class 2 Medical Certificate

• Flight Hours Required: Minimum of 45 flight hours

• Privileges: Fly non-commercially, with cost-sharing allowed
  

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

• Minimum Age: 18

• Medical Requirement: Class 1

• Flight Hours Required: Minimum of 200 flight hours

• Privileges: Fly commercially—including charters and paid services
  

Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

• Minimum Age: 21

• Medical Requirement: Class 1

• Flight Hours Required: Minimum of 1,500 hours

• Privileges: Command multi-pilot aircraft, after obtaining specific type-rating(s)
  

Eligibility Criteria for Bahrain Pilot Licenses

Applicants must meet:

• Age and Education: As required per license; strong skills in English, math, and physics

• Medical Fitness: Apply via the CAA-approved medical examiner

• Training Completion: Pass both theoretical exams and practical flight tests

Medical Certification for Pilots

Pilots must maintain valid medical certificates:

• Class 1 (CPL/ATPL): Annual renewal (or every 6 months if aged >40)

• Class 2 (PPL): Renewal every 24 months (or every 12 months if aged >40)

These exams ensure ongoing physical and mental fitness for safe aviation operations.

With Wingman Pilot Logbook you can generate your logbook in the CAA format in 3 simple steps in less than ~10 seconds. Rated 4.9 stars by pilots from Bahrain.

Learn more

Converting Foreign Licenses to Bahraini Licenses

ICAO-compliant licenses from other countries can be converted in Bahrain via:

1. Official license verification from the issuing authority

2. Obtaining a Bahrain-class medical certificate

3. Passing the Bahrain Air Law exam

4. Completing a flight proficiency test (if required)
   

License Application Form

Renewal & Maintaining Currency of Bahraini Pilot Licenses

• Medical Certificate: Must be valid and current

• Recent Experience: Must fulfill Bahrain CAA’s recent-flight experience or pass proficiency checks

The AIS Manual outlines standards for continuing proficiency and periodic checks aim.mtt.gov.bh.

Training Institutions in Bahrain

Aspiring pilots can train at Bahrain-based, CAA-approved flight schools, such as:

• Gulf Aviation Academy: Offers ground and flight training aligned with Bahrain CAA requirements

  
  

International Recognition and ICAO Compliance

Bahrain CAA licenses follow ICAO standards and are internationally accepted—empowering Bahrain-trained pilots to fly globally. Bahrain’s aviation safety reputation is supported by the FAA’s IASA Category 1 rating.

Contact Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs

For further inquiries:

• Website: Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs

• eAIP & AIS Manual: Obtain via the official AIM section of MTT

• Address: Civil Aviation Affairs, Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, Kingdom of Bahrain

• Phone: +973 17 534534

By leveraging official CAA resources and support from Wingman Log, Bahraini and foreign pilots can efficiently manage their licensing paths—ensuring compliance, currency, and career progression aligned with international aviation best practices.

Sources