Have you ever wondered what are the different licences one would get during pilot training in Canada? Have you ever thought of what is the significance of different licences one would get during pilot training and what other optional licences can get during the pilot training, then this blog is for you.
Embarking on the journey to become a commercial pilot in Canada is a thrilling endeavor filled with opportunity, but it’s also a path lined with rigorous requirements and regulations. This blog post aims to provide a clear and concise overview of licensing requirements for commercial pilots in Canada.
Whether you’re an aspiring aviator or a seasoned pro looking for a refresher, our guide offers a comprehensive look at the essential prerequisites and processes involved. Join us as we navigate through the complexities of the Canadian aviation industry, setting your controls for a successful career in commercial aviation.
Obtaining a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL)
To kickstart your flying journey, the first step is to obtain a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) in Canada. As the foundation of all subsequent flight licenses, the PPL offers the privilege of flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). Becoming a PPL holder requires meeting certain prerequisites set by Transport Canada.
Candidates must be at least 17 years old, possess a Category 3 Medical Certificate, and demonstrate English or French language proficiency. The training process includes a minimum of 45 hours of flight time, 17 hours of which must be solo flights. Additionally, candidates must complete a ground school course covering aeronautical knowledge, culminating in a written examination.
To test your flying skills, you will also need to successfully pass a flight test conducted by a Transport Canada examiner. With the PPL in your pocket, you’re ready to embark on more advanced training for professional pilot licenses. Please note, however, this is a high-level overview, and Transport Canada’s specific regulations must be closely followed.
Upgrading to a Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL)
After obtaining your PPL, the next step is to upgrade to a Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL). A CPL is a step up from the PPL and is required for any pilot seeking to earn money for their flight services. In Canada, the prerequisites for a CPL include being at least 18 years old, holding a valid Category 1 Medical Certificate, and demonstrating an adequate level of English or French language proficiency.
Candidates are required to complete a minimum of 200 hours of flight time, with at least 100 hours as the Pilot-in-Command. Out of these 200 hours, a minimum of 20 hours must be cross-country flight time, and 65 hours should be pilot-in-command flight time, including a cross-country flight of at least 300 nautical miles with two full-stop landings at different aerodromes.
In addition to flight time, prospective commercial pilots must complete a ground school program consisting of 80 hours covering commercial pilot operations, navigational procedures, and advanced aerodynamics. To obtain the CPL, candidates must pass a written exam and a flight test conducted by a Transport Canada examiner. It’s important to remember that these requirements provide a high-level overview, and the specific regulations of Transport Canada must always be followed.
Different Types of Ratings You Can Obtain as Part of Your CPL
Upon obtaining your Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL), you may consider advancing your flying skills by adding different types of ratings to it. These ratings provide you with the training needed to fly under special conditions and operate advanced aircraft, thus expanding your opportunities as a commercial pilot.
The Instrument Rating (IR) is one such option. It allows pilots to operate under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), meaning you can fly in poor visibility conditions such as fog or cloud cover. To obtain this rating, you must complete 40 hours of instrument time, pass an instrument rating written exam, and successfully complete a flight test.
Another valuable addition is the Multi-engine Rating, which permits you to operate aircraft with more than one engine. The requirements for this rating differ from school to school but generally consist of a ground school portion, flight training, and a flight test.
The Float Plane rating enables a pilot to operate seaplanes and is particularly useful in Canada with its numerous lakes and rivers. This rating typically requires both ground and flight training.
Night Rating is another rating one would obtain on their path to obtaining a CPL. As its name suggests, night rating authorizes pilots to fly at night. To earn this rating, a pilot must complete a specified number of night hours and landings. For requirements you can check the Transport Canada list of requirements here
Finally, there are also instructor ratings available, which allow you to teach others. Also most student pilots take up the instructor rating in order to start instructing other students as a means to build hours as one would need about 1500 flying hours to become eligible to apply for Airline Transport Pilot Licence according to Transport Canada.
There are different classes of instructor ratings one can obtain based on needs and requirements. The requirements by Transport Canada for different instructor ratings can be found here for Class 1, Class 2, Class 3 and Class 4
Adding these ratings to your CPL not only enhances your flying skills but also makes you more versatile and employable in the aviation industry. Remember, each rating has its specific requirements and examinations set by Transport Canada.
What is Required to Maintain Your CPL and Ratings
To maintain your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and any associated ratings, certain standards must be met as outlined by Transport Canada. Firstly, a pilot must demonstrate ongoing competency through a biennial flight review. This process involves both a written exam and a flight test, ensuring the pilot’s theoretical knowledge and practical skills remain sharp.
Reacting to emergency situations effectively is vital in aviation, so renewal of the Standard First Aid Certificate every three years is required. Moreover, the pilot’s medical fitness is crucial. Hence, an annual medical examination is mandated by a Transport Canada approved Civil Aviation Medical Examiner.
For pilots with an Instrument Rating, maintaining IFR currency is required. This entails completing six instrument approaches and a minimum of six hours of instrument time within the past six months. In case this currency lapses, an instrument proficiency check with a flight examiner is necessary.
Lastly, if a pilot possesses a Float Plane rating, they need to have a minimum of five takeoffs and landings on water within the preceding six months to maintain currency.
Remember, meeting these standards is not just about compliance, but rather ensuring a high level of safety and proficiency in the aviation industry.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, becoming a Commercial Pilot in Canada involves a methodical process with clearly defined steps and requirements. A prospective pilot must meet the education prerequisites, pass the required examinations, and receive adequate flight training to earn a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
Thereafter, maintaining the license and associated ratings demands ongoing competency, medical fitness, and currency in specific areas. These stringent requirements, set by Transport Canada, not only ensure compliance but are crucial in maintaining the exceptional safety standards and proficiency in the Canadian aviation industry.
So, if you’re considering a career that literally lets you soar above the rest, understanding and adhering to these licensing requirements is your first step towards the cockpit.
If you like this blog I am sure you would like to know what kind of jobs one would do after getting a CPL from a Canadian Flight School. You can check the list of top Canadian Flight Schools here