A Recreational Pilot Permit is the most economical way to start. Although the Recreational Pilot Permit carries some restrictions, once completed individuals can fly single engine aircraft during daylight hours, under visual flight rules.

A Recreational licensed pilot may carry one passenger at a time, and is not permitted to fly into any foreign countries including the United States.

Requirements:

1) Age - An applicant shall be a minimum of sixteen years of age. Actual training can begin sooner.

2) Medical Fitness and Validity -  Category 4 Medical Certificate valid for a Pilot Permit - Recreational - Aeroplane.

3) Knowledge - 

An applicant shall have obtained a minimum of 60 percent (60%) in each of the following four mandatory areas, as well as in the overall written examination Pilot Permit - Recreational

(a) Air Law - regulations, rules and orders, air traffic services, practices and procedures, and licensing requirements relevant to the permit;

(b) Navigation - navigation, radio aids and electronic theory;

(c) Meteorology;

(d) Aeronautics - General Knowledge - airframes, engines and systems, theory of flight, flight instruments, flight operations and human factors.

4) Experience

(a) An applicant shall have completed a minimum of 25 hours recreational pilot flight training under the direction and supervision of the holder of a flight instructor rating

(b) The flight training shall include a minimum of:

(i) 15 hours dual instruction flight time, including a minimum of 2 hours cross-country flight time, and

(ii) 5 hours solo flight time.

5) Skill

The applicant shall successfully complete a flight test to the standard outlined in the Flight Test Standard - Recreational Pilot Permit 

Cost Estimate

Notes:

1. Use our Application Form here to obtain a personalized program.

1. Fees paid to Transport Canada, books, medical and supplies extra.

2. The course hours above are the minimum times required by Transport Canada. Additional simulator or aircraft lessons may be added or revisited depending on the student's individual ability as assessed by their flight instructor. These extra lessons will be made at an additional cost.

3. Prices are approximate - individual costs will vary.