Aviation Success: Steps to Getting a Commercial Pilot License in Canada

commercial pilot license

Learn the step-by-step process of getting a Commercial Pilot License in Canada, from meeting eligibility criteria to flight training requirements.

A commercial pilot license is your ticket to fly with a reward. CPL will open the door to your career as a commercial pilot in Canada. Here are some entry-level positions with a commercial pilot license, as follows:

  • Photo Survey Pilot 
  • Airborne Banner Towing
  • Airborne Traffic Watch 
  • Parachute Dropping 
  • Medical Evacuation 
  • Forest Fire Detection 
  • VFR Charter Air Taxi 
  • IFR Charter Air Taxi 
  • Flight Instructor 
  • Forest Fire Suppression

You are in the right place if you are also looking to get a commercial pilot license. 

commercial pilot

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Commercial Pilot

Prerequisites To Enroll For CPL

You need to hold a private pilot license before enrolling for a commercial pilot license. You don’t need to meet any special educational requirements. It would be an additional plus if you had a working knowledge of French and English.

Requirements to Get for CPL

  • You must be 18 years of age or older to qualify for a commercial pilot license in Canada.
  • You need a minimum of 200 hours of flight time plus 100 hours of pilot-in-command time, including 20 hours in X country.
  • Category 1 medical certificate from a civil aviation medical examiner.
  • You need to clear the written exams held by Transport Canada, including general knowledge, instrument procedures, meteorology, and air law navigation.

Hours Breakdown

The commercial pilot course consists of 65 hours of flight training and 80 hours of ground school. The CPL breakdown also includes night endorsements and VFR over the top.

  • 35 hours of dual instruction must include 5 hours of X-country, 5 hours of dual night, and 20 hours of instrument time. 
  • 30 hours of solo flight time, including 25 hours of general practice (including airwork and radio communication) and 5 hours of cross-country (at least 300 nautical miles with 3 airport landings other than departure airport).
  • Ground school: minimum of 80 hours, including air law, navigation, general knowledge, and meteorology.
  • The Transport Canada written and flight tests are mandatory. 

Duration of the Course

If you don’t hold a private pilot license, then you need to take PPL first, which generally takes 12 months, and then the commercial pilot license would take another 12 months of flight training to fulfill flight training.

Choose a reputed Aviation School

Don’t be rushed and make the right decision in choosing the reputed aviation college in Canada.

Ensure accreditation and certification: It would imply that the school is recognized by the aviation authority in Canada. It will also ensure that the school is adhering to the regulations and standards set by the authorities.

Research the reputation: You can look for reviews, feedback, and testimonials. Social media platforms like Google, Instagram, and Facebook can help you. You can gather genuine information from them.

Qualifications of the instructor: Check the experience of the flight instructors. Generally, reputable schools employ only professional and experienced instructors.

Check the fleet and facilities: You can check their website or visit social media to inspect the fleet.

Check out their success stories: Inquire about the alumni’s background. Graduates with successful careers can be a testament to quality training.

Consider the programs offered by the school: Make sure the school is offering a program that aligns with your career goals.

Consider the location and opportunities: While choosing the province and city, ensure you have all the necessary facilities. Figure out the culture.

Carefully consider all the factors. Choosing the best aviation school is a critical first step.

Can International Students Work After CPL Training in Canada?

The answer is absolutely yes. Even if you are completing CPL training with Insignia College with a student visa, you can apply for a work permit in Canada. We can help you get PGWP. Feel free to contact us.

Cost of CPL

The approximate total cost would be CAD 35,372. This would include the application fee, ground school, pilot kit, and flight training costs. Click here to learn the details. You can contact the team at Insignia College for any help with accommodation and other facilities.

How to enroll in the CPL program?

Follow the following steps to enroll in the CPL program with Insignia College:. 

  1. Meet the prerequisites and requirements as mentioned above.
  2. Figure out the visa and entry requirements. You likely need a study permit. You can consult an Immigration agent for further help.
  3. You can visit our website and learn the details about the programs you want to enroll in.
  4. Contact the admission offices. You can DM us on Instagram, visit our website, and fill out the form. One of our team members will contact you. They can provide detailed information about the CPL program and explain the application procedure. You can clear up all your queries.
  5. After that, you have to submit the required documents. You will receive a list of the documents that you need to submit, like proof of age, a copy of your private pilot license, and a Category 1 medical certificate.
  6. You may need to undergo an interview and assessment to evaluate your suitability. Be ready to discuss your goals, purpose, and commitment to aviation. 
  7. You will get confirmation of the enrollment/letter of acceptance; this letter will include the program details, beginning of the session, orientation, and pre-enrollment tasks. This can help you get a study permit in Canada.

    After that, you need to apply for a study permit and buy your ticket to Canada. Once you arrive in Canada, the team at Insignia College can make arrangements like accommodation and taxi services for you if you ask them to.

    Complete all the necessary formalities, attend the orientation session provided by Insignia College, and start your career in aviation. You have to clear the theory exam set by Transport Canada. An experienced and Transport Canada-approved flight instructor will start your flight training.

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