Pilot licensing in Canada
Encyclopedia
Pilot licensing in Canada is administered by Transport Canada
under the Aeronautics Act and the Canadian Aviation Regulations
(CARs).
Other than when flying a hang glider or paraglider, a person may only operate a Canadian-registered aircraft
or act as a flight crew member in Canada
with a licence or permit issued by Transport Canada.
At the end of 2008 there were 64,932 Canadian licences and permits held, giving Canada the second largest population of licenced pilots in the world.
(ICAO) licence Standards And Recommended Practices (SARPs). A licence can be used to fly domestically as well as internationally, while a permit does not comply with ICAO standards and therefore can only be used within Canada, unless accepted by another country.
Pilots
with licences from foreign countries that are ICAO contracting states may apply to Transport Canada for a validation of their foreign licence. This allows them to fly Canadian registered aircraft in Canada. A foreign licence may be used to fly an aircraft registered in the same state as the licence while in Canada.
The term licence in Canada
is equivalent to the term certificate
in the United States
. The term licence
is also used in the United Kingdom
. Under the ICAO
they are all legally equivalent.
The most common type of Canadian licence is the private pilot licence—aeroplane, which is used to fly light single engine general aviation
aircraft privately and recreationally. At the end of 2008 there were 27,138 aeroplane and 596 helicopter private pilot licences in force in Canada. The rarest licence or permit in Canada is the gyroplane pilot permit, with only 29 in force at the end of 2008.
Each aircraft model requires different knowledge and skill to fly. For example, a single engine general aviation aircraft's design and operation is fundamentally different from a gyroplane. Type ratings allow a pilot to fly a specific aircraft model. The CARs use the term type instead of model.
Some aircraft are covered by a blanket type rating which is applicable to a grouping of aircraft types. For example, the aeroplanes blanket type rating covers all non-high performance, single engine aeroplanes that have a minimum flight crew requirement of one pilot. Examples of this type of aircraft are the Cessna 172
and the Piper Cherokee
. These are considered similar enough that specific ratings are not required for each type.
Other aircraft types are covered only by individual type ratings that apply to a single specific model of aircraft. For example, all helicopters are significantly different that each one requires an individual type rating. A person with a private pilot licence—helicopter with a rating for the Bell 407
helicopter may fly only that type of helicopter. The specific privileges and requirements for each rating are detailed in the CARs.
Other than aircraft type ratings there are ratings that allow instrument flying, night flying, VFR over-the-top, ultra-light passenger carrying and other pilot privileges.
(VFR) is allowed under this permit and no passengers may be carried.
A student pilot permit is required for each aircraft category which a person is training for and is available for the following aircraft categories:
In order to attain a student pilot permit, a student must sit and pass the PSTAR
examination.
. Until endorsed with other ratings, only domestic day flying under VFR is allowed under this permit.
The gyroplane pilot permit is endorsed with a blanket type rating for all single seat gyroplanes. There is no blanket type rating for two-seat gyroplanes and a type rating is required for each specific model of two-seat gyroplane.
The ultra-light pilot permit allows the holder to fly an ultra-light aircraft
in accordance with day VFR. A passenger may not be carried without a passenger carrying endorsement.
The ultra-light pilot permit is endorsed with a blanket type rating for all models of ultra-light aeroplanes. Transport Canada defines two general categories of ultra-light aeroplane. The operating and flight rules for basic ultra-light aeroplanes (BULA) does not allow any passenger carrying. The advanced ultra-light aeroplane (AULA) has stricter design requirements and includes passenger carrying if the pilot has an ultra-light pilot permit endorsed with the Passenger-carrying—ultra-light aeroplane rating. Holders of this permit may also fly certified or homebuilt aeroplanes that meet the weight and stall speed requirements of an ultra-light aeroplane.
Aircraft other than aeroplanes also fall under the general classification of ultra-light, in particular powered parachute
s and powered paragliders
. In such cases, the ultra-light pilot permit is restricted to the type used by the student for training and qualification.
Ultra-light aeroplanes are often equipped with floats, amphibious floats or designed as a seaplane
, however, there is no seaplane rating for the ultra-light pilot permit. Any ultra-light pilot may operate on water within the regulations of the CARs and the capabilities of the ultra-light aeroplane used.
This permit allows a person to fly as pilot of an aeroplane. Either the landplane or seaplane aeroplane class rating is included, depending on which type of aeroplane is used in the training for this permit and the appropriate rating is issued with the recreational pilot permit—aeroplane. This permit can be endorsed with either the seaplane or landplane class rating. Only domestic day flying in a single engine, non-high-performance aeroplane under VFR is allowed. This permit is restricted to single engine aeroplanes designed for a maximum of four people, but with only one passenger.
A pilot with this permit may also act as pilot of an ultra-light aeroplane.
Due to concerns within Transport Canada about the safety of a 25 hour permit to fly helicopters, the standards to establish this permit were never instituted and the permit is therefore not currently available. Transport Canada has indicated a desire to rescind this permit from the CARs.
, under day VFR.
The glider pilot licence is endorsed, in the student's flight log, by a flight test examiner or flight instructor for the type of launch method used during training. The licence is only valid for those methods of launch for which the glider pilot has been endorsed.
Once a glider pilot has completed a minimum of 3 solo flights using a particular launch method, they may then carry passengers, but only for those launch methods for which they have been endorsed and have completed the 3 solo flights.
. Only day flying under VFR is allowed, unless a night rating is added.
The balloon pilot licence is endorsed, in the student's flight log, by a flight test examiner or flight instructor for the type of inflation method used during training.
Once a balloon pilot has completed a minimum of 3 solo take-offs, accumulated a minimum of 50 hours flight time in untethered balloons and 300 hours total balloon flight time, his licence may then be further endorsed for take-offs in built-up areas.
A pilot with this licence cannot work for hire, although reimbursement for some costs is permitted.
A pilot with this licence may also act as a pilot of an ultra-light aeroplane.
The following endorsements can be added:
There is no blanket type rating for helicopter aircraft types and a type rating must be earned for each type of helicopter. A helicopter type rating for the specific helicopter used during training is issued with the private pilot licence—helicopter.
A pilot with this licence cannot work for hire, although reimbursement for some costs is permitted.
The following endorsements can be added:
The commercial pilot licence—aeroplane includes more advanced piloting knowledge, skill and experience than the private pilot licence—aeroplane. A private pilot licence—aeroplane is a prerequisite to earning a commercial pilot licence—aeroplane. A commercial pilot licence—aeroplane is in turn a prerequisite to earning an airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane or any class of flight instructor—aeroplane rating. The privileges of the ultra-light pilot permit, private pilot licence—aeroplane, and VFR-Over-the-Top rating and night flying are included in this licence.
The following endorsements can be added:
The commercial pilot licence—helicopter involves more advanced piloting knowledge, skill and experience than the private pilot licence—helicopter. A private pilot licence—helicopter is not a prerequisite to earning a commercial pilot licence—helicopter, however, the requirements for knowledge and experience are greater. A commercial pilot licence—helicopter is a prerequisite to earning an airline transport pilot licence—helicopter or any class of flight instructor—helicopter rating. The privileges of the private pilot licence—helicopter are included in this licence.
The commercial pilot licence—helicopter is restricted to daylight unless endorsed for night flying. The CARs provide for a number of significant options for credit in terms of knowledge and experience for pilots with previous experience flying with other permits and licenses.
The following endorsements can be added:
The airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane involves more advanced piloting knowledge, skill and experience than the commercial pilot licence—aeroplane. A commercial pilot licence—aeroplane, multi-engine rating and a Group 1 instrument rating are prerequisites for the airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane. The privileges of the ultra-light pilot permit, private pilot licence—aeroplane and commercial pilot licence—aeroplane are included.
The following endorsements can be added:
The airline transport pilot licence—helicopter involves more advanced piloting knowledge, skill and experience than the commercial pilot licence—helicopter. A commercial pilot licence—helicopter is a prerequisite to the airline transport pilot licence—helicopter. The privileges of the private pilot licence—helicopter and commercial pilot licence—helicopter are included.
The airline transport pilot licence—helicopter is restricted to aerial work only if the night and instrument flight time requirements are not met. This means that the licence is restricted to commercial flying that does not include air transport (transportation of commercial passengers) nor flight training.
The following endorsement can be added:
s are flown by a third crew member in addition to the pilot and co-pilot, a flight engineer
. The flight engineer is responsible for monitoring aircraft systems in flight and for inspecting the aircraft before and after each flight. The Boeing 747-300
is an example of an airliner that employs a flight engineer. Recent airliners from manufacturers such as Boeing
and Airbus
are designed for a two pilot crew with flight management functions previously the responsibility of a flight engineer now handled by automation. Many older airliners flying require a flight engineer.
The flight engineer licence allows the holder to be an aeroplane flight engineer. Generally, this will be on a large transport aircraft. Being a pilot is not a prerequisite to earning a flight engineer licence, though many flight engineers do hold a commercial pilot licence—aeroplane or airline transport pilot licence.
There is no blanket aircraft type rating associated with the flight engineer licence. The licence must be endorsed with an individual type rating for each aeroplane type. When issued the flight engineer rating for the aeroplane type used by a person for training is issued.
The following endorsements can be added:
. These include:
Other blanket type ratings available for the respective licence or permit include:
Individual aircraft type ratings required for the respective licence or permit include:
in visual reference to the ground, at night. This is different from instrument meteorological conditions
(IMC) where the pilot flies and maintains situational awareness strictly by using instruments and avionics
.
The night rating is available only for the following permits and licences:
For the commercial and airline pilot licences (aeroplane) it is expected that the night rating will have already been earned. If not, a restricted licence may be issued for day flying only.
, without visual reference to the ground under visual flight rules during the daytime. Pilots are required to takeoff from an aerodrome
in normal VMC
and VFR and land at the destination aerodrome under VFR. The cruise flight in between may be flown under VFR OTT flight rules.
This rating is an intermediate step between piloting privileges that allow only for VFR flying and an instrument rating. This rating is included in the privileges of an instrument rating, as well as the Commercial Licence.
The VFR OTT rating is available for the following licences:
(IMC), for example when cloud layers obscure the pilot's view of the ground. An instrument-rated pilot is able to fly and maintain situational awareness strictly by using instruments and avionics
. This rating is one of the more complex ratings and is a major step toward earning more advanced licences such as an airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane. It can be added to any aeroplane or helicopter licence and is a requirement for the issue of an Airline Transport Pilot Licence - Aeroplanes.
The rating may only be exercised for aircraft in the group endorsed. An instrument rating is often combined with other ratings to form a set of piloting privileges. For example, the multi-engine rating is required in addition to an instrument rating to fly a multi-engined aircraft under instrument flight rules.
VFR-Over-the-Top privileges are included in an instrument rating.
The requirements for an instrument rating are the same for both a private pilot licence—aeroplane and a private pilot licence—helicopter. Helicopters certified for IFR operations are generally complex multi-crew and multi-engine aircraft, so a helicopter instrument rating is generally issued in conjunction with other ratings.
Transport Canada issues distinct instrument ratings for each of the following four groups of aircraft types dependent upon the nature of the training for the instrument rating and the associated flight test.
The second officer rating is available only for the following licences:
The passenger-carrying—ultra-light aeroplane rating applies only to the ultra-light pilot permit. Pilots with a recreational pilot permit—aeroplane and higher aeroplane licences are allowed to carry passengers in an aircraft that is authorized for passenger-carrying.
rating for pilots to carry out aerobatics in Canada, although there are ratings for instructors to teach students aerobatics on aeroplanes and gliders.
Certificates with greater ease than in the past. Similarly, American pilots who hold certain pilot certificates are able to convert those certificates into Canadian licences.
Transport Canada
Transport Canada is the department within the government of Canada which is responsible for developing regulations, policies and services of transportation in Canada. It is part of the Transportation, Infrastructure and Communities portfolio...
under the Aeronautics Act and the Canadian Aviation Regulations
Canadian Aviation Regulations
The Canadian Aviation Regulations are the rules that govern civil aviation in Canada.-Establishment:The CARs became law on October 10, 1996 replacing the former Air Regulations and Air Navigation Orders. The authority for the establishment of the CARs is the Aeronautics Act...
(CARs).
Other than when flying a hang glider or paraglider, a person may only operate a Canadian-registered aircraft
Aircraft
An aircraft is a vehicle that is able to fly by gaining support from the air, or, in general, the atmosphere of a planet. An aircraft counters the force of gravity by using either static lift or by using the dynamic lift of an airfoil, or in a few cases the downward thrust from jet engines.Although...
or act as a flight crew member in Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
with a licence or permit issued by Transport Canada.
At the end of 2008 there were 64,932 Canadian licences and permits held, giving Canada the second largest population of licenced pilots in the world.
Overview
A licence is issued by Transport Canada in accordance with International Civil Aviation OrganizationInternational Civil Aviation Organization
The International Civil Aviation Organization , pronounced , , is a specialized agency of the United Nations. It codifies the principles and techniques of international air navigation and fosters the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth...
(ICAO) licence Standards And Recommended Practices (SARPs). A licence can be used to fly domestically as well as internationally, while a permit does not comply with ICAO standards and therefore can only be used within Canada, unless accepted by another country.
Pilots
Aviator
An aviator is a person who flies an aircraft. The first recorded use of the term was in 1887, as a variation of 'aviation', from the Latin avis , coined in 1863 by G. de la Landelle in Aviation Ou Navigation Aérienne...
with licences from foreign countries that are ICAO contracting states may apply to Transport Canada for a validation of their foreign licence. This allows them to fly Canadian registered aircraft in Canada. A foreign licence may be used to fly an aircraft registered in the same state as the licence while in Canada.
The term licence in Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
is equivalent to the term certificate
Pilot certification in the United States
Pilot certification in the United States is required for an individual to act as a pilot of an aircraft. It is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration , a branch of the Department of Transportation...
in the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
. The term licence
Pilot licensing in the United Kingdom
Pilot licensing in the United Kingdom is regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority under the auspices of the Joint Aviation Authorities and European Aviation Safety Agency. Each member nation in the EU has responsibility for regulating their own pilot licensing...
is also used in the United Kingdom
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandIn the United Kingdom and Dependencies, other languages have been officially recognised as legitimate autochthonous languages under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages...
. Under the ICAO
International Civil Aviation Organization
The International Civil Aviation Organization , pronounced , , is a specialized agency of the United Nations. It codifies the principles and techniques of international air navigation and fosters the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth...
they are all legally equivalent.
The most common type of Canadian licence is the private pilot licence—aeroplane, which is used to fly light single engine general aviation
General aviation
General aviation is one of the two categories of civil aviation. It refers to all flights other than military and scheduled airline and regular cargo flights, both private and commercial. General aviation flights range from gliders and powered parachutes to large, non-scheduled cargo jet flights...
aircraft privately and recreationally. At the end of 2008 there were 27,138 aeroplane and 596 helicopter private pilot licences in force in Canada. The rarest licence or permit in Canada is the gyroplane pilot permit, with only 29 in force at the end of 2008.
Ratings
Every permit and licence has at least one or more ratings. A rating is a Transport Canada endorsement that grants additional special privileges. For example, a night rating allows a pilot to fly at night.Each aircraft model requires different knowledge and skill to fly. For example, a single engine general aviation aircraft's design and operation is fundamentally different from a gyroplane. Type ratings allow a pilot to fly a specific aircraft model. The CARs use the term type instead of model.
Some aircraft are covered by a blanket type rating which is applicable to a grouping of aircraft types. For example, the aeroplanes blanket type rating covers all non-high performance, single engine aeroplanes that have a minimum flight crew requirement of one pilot. Examples of this type of aircraft are the Cessna 172
Cessna 172
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is a four-seat, single-engine, high-wing fixed-wing aircraft. First flown in 1955 and still in production, more Cessna 172s have been built than any other aircraft.-Design and development:...
and the Piper Cherokee
Piper Cherokee
The Piper PA-28 Cherokee is a family of light aircraft designed for flight training, air taxi, and personal use. It is built by Piper Aircraft....
. These are considered similar enough that specific ratings are not required for each type.
Other aircraft types are covered only by individual type ratings that apply to a single specific model of aircraft. For example, all helicopters are significantly different that each one requires an individual type rating. A person with a private pilot licence—helicopter with a rating for the Bell 407
Bell 407
The Bell 407 is a four-blade, single-engine, civil utility helicopter; a derivative of the Bell 206L-4 LongRanger. The 407 uses the four-blade rotor with composite hub developed for the United States Army's OH-58D Kiowa Warrior instead of the two-blade, semi-rigid rotor of the 206L-4...
helicopter may fly only that type of helicopter. The specific privileges and requirements for each rating are detailed in the CARs.
Other than aircraft type ratings there are ratings that allow instrument flying, night flying, VFR over-the-top, ultra-light passenger carrying and other pilot privileges.
Student pilot permit
Before receiving a permit a student pilot may only practice dual instruction with an instructor. With a permit, a student pilot may fly solo under the supervision of a flight instructor and for purposes of flight training only. Only domestic day flying under visual flight rulesVisual flight rules
Visual flight rules are a set of regulations which allow a pilot to operate an aircraft in weather conditions generally clear enough to allow the pilot to see where the aircraft is going. Specifically, the weather must be better than basic VFR weather minimums, as specified in the rules of the...
(VFR) is allowed under this permit and no passengers may be carried.
A student pilot permit is required for each aircraft category which a person is training for and is available for the following aircraft categories:
In order to attain a student pilot permit, a student must sit and pass the PSTAR
PSTAR
The PSTAR, originally standing for Pre-Solo Test of Air Regulations but now called Student Pilot Permit or Private Pilot Licence for Foreign and Military Applicants, Aviation Regulation Examination,...
examination.
- AeroplaneFixed-wing aircraftA fixed-wing aircraft is an aircraft capable of flight using wings that generate lift due to the vehicle's forward airspeed. Fixed-wing aircraft are distinct from rotary-wing aircraft in which wings rotate about a fixed mast and ornithopters in which lift is generated by flapping wings.A powered...
- BalloonBalloon (aircraft)A balloon is a type of aircraft that remains aloft due to its buoyancy. A balloon travels by moving with the wind. It is distinct from an airship, which is a buoyant aircraft that can be propelled through the air in a controlled manner....
- GliderGlider aircraftGlider aircraft are heavier-than-air craft that are supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against their lifting surfaces, and whose free flight does not depend on an engine. Mostly these types of aircraft are intended for routine operation without engines, though engine failure can...
- GyroplaneAutogyroAn autogyro , also known as gyroplane, gyrocopter, or rotaplane, is a type of rotorcraft which uses an unpowered rotor in autorotation to develop lift, and an engine-powered propeller, similar to that of a fixed-wing aircraft, to provide thrust...
- HelicopterHelicopterA helicopter is a type of rotorcraft in which lift and thrust are supplied by one or more engine-driven rotors. This allows the helicopter to take off and land vertically, to hover, and to fly forwards, backwards, and laterally...
- Ultra-light aeroplaneUltralight aircraft (Canada)The Canadian Aviation Regulations define two types of ultralight aircraft: basic ultra-light aeroplane , and advanced ultra-light aeroplane .- Canadian definition of ultra-light :...
Gyroplane pilot permit
The gyroplane pilot permit allows the holder to fly a gyroplaneAutogyro
An autogyro , also known as gyroplane, gyrocopter, or rotaplane, is a type of rotorcraft which uses an unpowered rotor in autorotation to develop lift, and an engine-powered propeller, similar to that of a fixed-wing aircraft, to provide thrust...
. Until endorsed with other ratings, only domestic day flying under VFR is allowed under this permit.
The gyroplane pilot permit is endorsed with a blanket type rating for all single seat gyroplanes. There is no blanket type rating for two-seat gyroplanes and a type rating is required for each specific model of two-seat gyroplane.
Ultra-light pilot permit
Ultralight aircraft (Canada)
The Canadian Aviation Regulations define two types of ultralight aircraft: basic ultra-light aeroplane , and advanced ultra-light aeroplane .- Canadian definition of ultra-light :...
in accordance with day VFR. A passenger may not be carried without a passenger carrying endorsement.
The ultra-light pilot permit is endorsed with a blanket type rating for all models of ultra-light aeroplanes. Transport Canada defines two general categories of ultra-light aeroplane. The operating and flight rules for basic ultra-light aeroplanes (BULA) does not allow any passenger carrying. The advanced ultra-light aeroplane (AULA) has stricter design requirements and includes passenger carrying if the pilot has an ultra-light pilot permit endorsed with the Passenger-carrying—ultra-light aeroplane rating. Holders of this permit may also fly certified or homebuilt aeroplanes that meet the weight and stall speed requirements of an ultra-light aeroplane.
Aircraft other than aeroplanes also fall under the general classification of ultra-light, in particular powered parachute
Powered parachute
A powered parachute is a parachute with motor and wheels. The aircraft's airspeed is typically about 25–35 mph . PPCs operate safely at heights ranging from a few feet off the ground to altitudes as high as 18,000+ feet...
s and powered paragliders
Paragliding
Paragliding is the recreational and competitive adventure sport of flying paragliders: lightweight, free-flying, foot-launched glider aircraft with no rigid primary structure...
. In such cases, the ultra-light pilot permit is restricted to the type used by the student for training and qualification.
Ultra-light aeroplanes are often equipped with floats, amphibious floats or designed as a seaplane
Seaplane
A seaplane is a fixed-wing aircraft capable of taking off and landing on water. Seaplanes that can also take off and land on airfields are a subclass called amphibian aircraft...
, however, there is no seaplane rating for the ultra-light pilot permit. Any ultra-light pilot may operate on water within the regulations of the CARs and the capabilities of the ultra-light aeroplane used.
Recreational pilot permit—aeroplane
The recreational pilot permit—aeroplane is designed to make flying more affordable. It has fewer requirements with respect to training and affords more restrictive privileges compared to the private pilot licence—aeroplane.This permit allows a person to fly as pilot of an aeroplane. Either the landplane or seaplane aeroplane class rating is included, depending on which type of aeroplane is used in the training for this permit and the appropriate rating is issued with the recreational pilot permit—aeroplane. This permit can be endorsed with either the seaplane or landplane class rating. Only domestic day flying in a single engine, non-high-performance aeroplane under VFR is allowed. This permit is restricted to single engine aeroplanes designed for a maximum of four people, but with only one passenger.
A pilot with this permit may also act as pilot of an ultra-light aeroplane.
Recreational pilot permit—helicopter
The recreational pilot permit—helicopter was intended to make flying more accessible. It was to have fewer requirements with respect to training and would have afforded more restrictive privileges as compared to the private pilot licence—helicopter.Due to concerns within Transport Canada about the safety of a 25 hour permit to fly helicopters, the standards to establish this permit were never instituted and the permit is therefore not currently available. Transport Canada has indicated a desire to rescind this permit from the CARs.
Glider pilot licence
The glider pilot licence allows the holder to fly as pilot of a gliderGlider aircraft
Glider aircraft are heavier-than-air craft that are supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against their lifting surfaces, and whose free flight does not depend on an engine. Mostly these types of aircraft are intended for routine operation without engines, though engine failure can...
, under day VFR.
The glider pilot licence is endorsed, in the student's flight log, by a flight test examiner or flight instructor for the type of launch method used during training. The licence is only valid for those methods of launch for which the glider pilot has been endorsed.
Once a glider pilot has completed a minimum of 3 solo flights using a particular launch method, they may then carry passengers, but only for those launch methods for which they have been endorsed and have completed the 3 solo flights.
Balloon pilot licence
The balloon pilot licence allows the holder to act as pilot co-pilot of a balloonBalloon (aircraft)
A balloon is a type of aircraft that remains aloft due to its buoyancy. A balloon travels by moving with the wind. It is distinct from an airship, which is a buoyant aircraft that can be propelled through the air in a controlled manner....
. Only day flying under VFR is allowed, unless a night rating is added.
The balloon pilot licence is endorsed, in the student's flight log, by a flight test examiner or flight instructor for the type of inflation method used during training.
Once a balloon pilot has completed a minimum of 3 solo take-offs, accumulated a minimum of 50 hours flight time in untethered balloons and 300 hours total balloon flight time, his licence may then be further endorsed for take-offs in built-up areas.
Private pilot licence—aeroplane
The private pilot licence—aeroplane allows the holder to fly as pilot or co-pilot of an aeroplane. This is the most commonly held licence in Canada and is generally the first licence earned by the aspiring professional pilot. Generally, the landplane aeroplane class rating is included in the training for this licence and this rating is issued with the private pilot licence—aeroplane. Only day flying of a single engine non-high-performance aeroplane in accordance with VFR is allowed, unless other ratings have been earned.A pilot with this licence cannot work for hire, although reimbursement for some costs is permitted.
A pilot with this licence may also act as a pilot of an ultra-light aeroplane.
The following endorsements can be added:
- Landplane rating
- Seaplane rating
- Multi-engine rating
- Multi-engine centre line thrust rating
- Night rating
- VFR-Over-the-Top rating
- Instrument rating
Private pilot licence—helicopter
The private pilot licence—helicopter licence allows the holder to fly as pilot or co-pilot of a helicopter. Only day flying under VFR is allowed until other ratings are added.There is no blanket type rating for helicopter aircraft types and a type rating must be earned for each type of helicopter. A helicopter type rating for the specific helicopter used during training is issued with the private pilot licence—helicopter.
A pilot with this licence cannot work for hire, although reimbursement for some costs is permitted.
The following endorsements can be added:
- Individual type rating for each model of helicopter
- Night rating
- VFR-Over-the-Top rating
- Instrument rating
Commercial pilot licence—aeroplane
The commercial pilot licence—aeroplane licence allows the holder to fly professionally as pilot of a single pilot aeroplane, or as copilot on a multi-crew aeroplane.The commercial pilot licence—aeroplane includes more advanced piloting knowledge, skill and experience than the private pilot licence—aeroplane. A private pilot licence—aeroplane is a prerequisite to earning a commercial pilot licence—aeroplane. A commercial pilot licence—aeroplane is in turn a prerequisite to earning an airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane or any class of flight instructor—aeroplane rating. The privileges of the ultra-light pilot permit, private pilot licence—aeroplane, and VFR-Over-the-Top rating and night flying are included in this licence.
The following endorsements can be added:
- Landplane rating
- Seaplane rating
- Multi-engine rating
- Multi-engine centre line thrust rating
- Instrument rating
- Second officer rating
- Flight instructor rating
Commercial pilot licence—helicopter
The commercial pilot licence—helicopter licence allows the holder to fly professionally as pilot of a single pilot helicopter or as copilot of a multi-crew helicopter.The commercial pilot licence—helicopter involves more advanced piloting knowledge, skill and experience than the private pilot licence—helicopter. A private pilot licence—helicopter is not a prerequisite to earning a commercial pilot licence—helicopter, however, the requirements for knowledge and experience are greater. A commercial pilot licence—helicopter is a prerequisite to earning an airline transport pilot licence—helicopter or any class of flight instructor—helicopter rating. The privileges of the private pilot licence—helicopter are included in this licence.
The commercial pilot licence—helicopter is restricted to daylight unless endorsed for night flying. The CARs provide for a number of significant options for credit in terms of knowledge and experience for pilots with previous experience flying with other permits and licenses.
The following endorsements can be added:
- Night
- Instrument rating
- Flight instructor rating
Airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane
The airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane allows the holder to fly professionally as pilot or co-pilot of a single pilot or multi-crew aeroplane This licence is required in order to be a professional airline captain.The airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane involves more advanced piloting knowledge, skill and experience than the commercial pilot licence—aeroplane. A commercial pilot licence—aeroplane, multi-engine rating and a Group 1 instrument rating are prerequisites for the airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane. The privileges of the ultra-light pilot permit, private pilot licence—aeroplane and commercial pilot licence—aeroplane are included.
The following endorsements can be added:
- Second officer rating
- Flight instructor rating
Airline transport pilot licence—helicopter
The airline transport pilot licence—helicopter allows a pilot to fly professionally as pilot or co-pilot of single pilot or multi-crew helicopters.The airline transport pilot licence—helicopter involves more advanced piloting knowledge, skill and experience than the commercial pilot licence—helicopter. A commercial pilot licence—helicopter is a prerequisite to the airline transport pilot licence—helicopter. The privileges of the private pilot licence—helicopter and commercial pilot licence—helicopter are included.
The airline transport pilot licence—helicopter is restricted to aerial work only if the night and instrument flight time requirements are not met. This means that the licence is restricted to commercial flying that does not include air transport (transportation of commercial passengers) nor flight training.
The following endorsement can be added:
- Flight instructor rating
Flight engineer licence
Some airlinerAirliner
An airliner is a large fixed-wing aircraft for transporting passengers and cargo. Such aircraft are operated by airlines. Although the definition of an airliner can vary from country to country, an airliner is typically defined as an aircraft intended for carrying multiple passengers in commercial...
s are flown by a third crew member in addition to the pilot and co-pilot, a flight engineer
Flight engineer
Flight engineers work in three types of aircraft: fixed-wing , rotary wing , and space flight .As airplanes became even larger requiring more engines and complex systems to operate, the workload on the two pilots became excessive during certain critical parts of the flight regime, notably takeoffs...
. The flight engineer is responsible for monitoring aircraft systems in flight and for inspecting the aircraft before and after each flight. The Boeing 747-300
Boeing 747
The Boeing 747 is a wide-body commercial airliner and cargo transport, often referred to by its original nickname, Jumbo Jet, or Queen of the Skies. It is among the world's most recognizable aircraft, and was the first wide-body ever produced...
is an example of an airliner that employs a flight engineer. Recent airliners from manufacturers such as Boeing
Boeing
The Boeing Company is an American multinational aerospace and defense corporation, founded in 1916 by William E. Boeing in Seattle, Washington. Boeing has expanded over the years, merging with McDonnell Douglas in 1997. Boeing Corporate headquarters has been in Chicago, Illinois since 2001...
and Airbus
Airbus
Airbus SAS is an aircraft manufacturing subsidiary of EADS, a European aerospace company. Based in Blagnac, France, surburb of Toulouse, and with significant activity across Europe, the company produces around half of the world's jet airliners....
are designed for a two pilot crew with flight management functions previously the responsibility of a flight engineer now handled by automation. Many older airliners flying require a flight engineer.
The flight engineer licence allows the holder to be an aeroplane flight engineer. Generally, this will be on a large transport aircraft. Being a pilot is not a prerequisite to earning a flight engineer licence, though many flight engineers do hold a commercial pilot licence—aeroplane or airline transport pilot licence.
There is no blanket aircraft type rating associated with the flight engineer licence. The licence must be endorsed with an individual type rating for each aeroplane type. When issued the flight engineer rating for the aeroplane type used by a person for training is issued.
The following endorsements can be added:
- Flight engineer rating
Aeroplane class ratings
Aeroplane class ratings are specific to fixed-wing aircraftFixed-wing aircraft
A fixed-wing aircraft is an aircraft capable of flight using wings that generate lift due to the vehicle's forward airspeed. Fixed-wing aircraft are distinct from rotary-wing aircraft in which wings rotate about a fixed mast and ornithopters in which lift is generated by flapping wings.A powered...
. These include:
- Seaplane rating
- Landplane rating
- Multi-engine rating
- Multi-engine centre line thrust rating
Aircraft type ratings
Aeroplane licences may be endorsed with individual aircraft types or with blanket ratings for groups of aircraft, for instance "All aeroplanes with a minimum flight crew requirement of one pilot excluding high performance".Other blanket type ratings available for the respective licence or permit include:
- Gliders
- Balloons
- Ultra-light aeroplanes
- Gyroplanes
Individual aircraft type ratings required for the respective licence or permit include:
- Each aeroplane with a minimum flight crew requirement of at least two pilots
- Each aeroplane with a minimum flight crew requirement of at least two pilots utilizing a cruise relief pilot
- Each high performance Aeroplane type to be endorsed on a pilot licence - aeroplane category
- Each aeroplane type to be endorsed on a flight engineer licence
- Each aeroplane type to be endorsed on a second officer rating
- Each aeroplane type to be endorsed on a licence for which no blanket type rating is issued
- Each type of helicopter
- Each type of power driven balloon or airship
- Each type of gyroplane other than single seat gyroplanes
- Restricted Licence - Individual aircraft type ratings for certain medically restricted licences
Night rating
The night rating allows a pilot to fly in VMC and navigateAir navigation
The basic principles of air navigation are identical to general navigation, which includes the process of planning, recording, and controlling the movement of a craft from one place to another....
in visual reference to the ground, at night. This is different from instrument meteorological conditions
Instrument meteorological conditions
Instrument meteorological conditions is an aviation flight category that describes weather conditions that require pilots to fly primarily by reference to instruments, and therefore under Instrument Flight Rules , rather than by outside visual references under Visual Flight Rules . Typically, this...
(IMC) where the pilot flies and maintains situational awareness strictly by using instruments and avionics
Avionics
Avionics are electronic systems used on aircraft, artificial satellites and spacecraft.Avionic systems include communications, navigation, the display and management of multiple systems and the hundreds of systems that are fitted to aircraft to meet individual roles...
.
The night rating is available only for the following permits and licences:
- Gyroplane pilot permit
- Balloon pilot licence
- Private pilot licence—aeroplane
- Private pilot licence—helicopter
For the commercial and airline pilot licences (aeroplane) it is expected that the night rating will have already been earned. If not, a restricted licence may be issued for day flying only.
VFR-Over-the-Top rating
The VFR-Over-the-Top (VFR OTT) rating allows the holder to fly above and between cloudCloud
A cloud is a visible mass of liquid droplets or frozen crystals made of water and/or various chemicals suspended in the atmosphere above the surface of a planetary body. They are also known as aerosols. Clouds in Earth's atmosphere are studied in the cloud physics branch of meteorology...
, without visual reference to the ground under visual flight rules during the daytime. Pilots are required to takeoff from an aerodrome
Aerodrome
An aerodrome, airdrome or airfield is a term for any location from which aircraft flight operations take place, regardless of whether they involve cargo, passengers or neither...
in normal VMC
Visual meteorological conditions
In aviation, visual meteorological conditions is an aviation flight category in which visual flight rules flight is permitted—that is, conditions in which pilots have sufficient visibility to fly the aircraft maintaining visual separation from terrain and other aircraft. They are the opposite of...
and VFR and land at the destination aerodrome under VFR. The cruise flight in between may be flown under VFR OTT flight rules.
This rating is an intermediate step between piloting privileges that allow only for VFR flying and an instrument rating. This rating is included in the privileges of an instrument rating, as well as the Commercial Licence.
The VFR OTT rating is available for the following licences:
- Private pilot—aeroplane
- Private pilot—helicopter
- Commercial pilot—helicopter
- Airline transport pilot—helicopter
Instrument rating
The instrument rating allows a pilot to fly in instrument meteorological conditionsInstrument meteorological conditions
Instrument meteorological conditions is an aviation flight category that describes weather conditions that require pilots to fly primarily by reference to instruments, and therefore under Instrument Flight Rules , rather than by outside visual references under Visual Flight Rules . Typically, this...
(IMC), for example when cloud layers obscure the pilot's view of the ground. An instrument-rated pilot is able to fly and maintain situational awareness strictly by using instruments and avionics
Avionics
Avionics are electronic systems used on aircraft, artificial satellites and spacecraft.Avionic systems include communications, navigation, the display and management of multiple systems and the hundreds of systems that are fitted to aircraft to meet individual roles...
. This rating is one of the more complex ratings and is a major step toward earning more advanced licences such as an airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane. It can be added to any aeroplane or helicopter licence and is a requirement for the issue of an Airline Transport Pilot Licence - Aeroplanes.
The rating may only be exercised for aircraft in the group endorsed. An instrument rating is often combined with other ratings to form a set of piloting privileges. For example, the multi-engine rating is required in addition to an instrument rating to fly a multi-engined aircraft under instrument flight rules.
VFR-Over-the-Top privileges are included in an instrument rating.
The requirements for an instrument rating are the same for both a private pilot licence—aeroplane and a private pilot licence—helicopter. Helicopters certified for IFR operations are generally complex multi-crew and multi-engine aircraft, so a helicopter instrument rating is generally issued in conjunction with other ratings.
Transport Canada issues distinct instrument ratings for each of the following four groups of aircraft types dependent upon the nature of the training for the instrument rating and the associated flight test.
- Group 1 for multi-engine aeroplanes
- Group 2 for multi-engine centre line thrust aeroplanes
- Group 3 for single engine aeroplanes
- Group 4 for helicopters
Second officer rating
The second officer rating can be added to the professional aeroplane licences to allow the holder to act as second officer on a multi-crew aircraft. By itself the rating does not confer piloting privileges.The second officer rating is available only for the following licences:
- Commercial pilot licence—aeroplane
- Airline transport pilot licence—aeroplane
Passenger-carrying—ultra-light aeroplane rating
Transport Canada defines two general types of ultra-light aeroplane, basic ultra-light aeroplanes are not allowed to carry passengers, while advanced ultra-light aeroplanes are allowed to carry one passenger, if the pilot has an ultra-light pilot permit endorsed with this rating.The passenger-carrying—ultra-light aeroplane rating applies only to the ultra-light pilot permit. Pilots with a recreational pilot permit—aeroplane and higher aeroplane licences are allowed to carry passengers in an aircraft that is authorized for passenger-carrying.
Aerobatic rating
There is no aerobaticAerobatics
Aerobatics is the practice of flying maneuvers involving aircraft attitudes that are not used in normal flight. Aerobatics are performed in airplanes and gliders for training, recreation, entertainment and sport...
rating for pilots to carry out aerobatics in Canada, although there are ratings for instructors to teach students aerobatics on aeroplanes and gliders.
Flight instructor ratings
The following flight instructor ratings are available to be added to the applicable licence or permit:- Aeroplane instructor rating - Class 1, 2, 3 or 4
- Aeroplane aerobatic instructor rating - Class 1 or 2
- Helicopter instructor rating - Class 1, 2, 3 or 4
- Gyroplane instructor rating
- Glider instructor rating
- Glider aerobatic instructor rating
- Balloon instructor rating
- Ultra-light Aeroplane instructor rating
Foreign licence conversion
As of 1 December 2006 Canadian pilots who hold certain pilot licences are able to convert those licences into FAAFederal Aviation Administration
The Federal Aviation Administration is the national aviation authority of the United States. An agency of the United States Department of Transportation, it has authority to regulate and oversee all aspects of civil aviation in the U.S...
Certificates with greater ease than in the past. Similarly, American pilots who hold certain pilot certificates are able to convert those certificates into Canadian licences.
See also
- Pilot licensing in the United KingdomPilot licensing in the United KingdomPilot licensing in the United Kingdom is regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority under the auspices of the Joint Aviation Authorities and European Aviation Safety Agency. Each member nation in the EU has responsibility for regulating their own pilot licensing...
- Pilot certification in the United StatesPilot certification in the United StatesPilot certification in the United States is required for an individual to act as a pilot of an aircraft. It is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration , a branch of the Department of Transportation...
- Pilot licensing and certificationPilot licensing and certificationPilot licensing or certification refers to permits to fly aircraft that are issued by the National Aviation Authority in each country, establishing that the holder has met a specific set of knowledge and experience requirements. This includes taking a flying test. The certified pilot can then...