Private Pilot License

The Private Pilot License course is designed to provide the individual with the knowledge and skills to safely operate a small, single-engine airplane under visual conditions, during daylight hours. Qualifications beyond the Private Pilot License are available as endorsements to the basic license.

The course consist of a minimum of 45 hours flight training, which must include a minimum of 17 hours dual instruction, and 12 hours solo. The remaining 16 hours may be either dual or solo. Dual time must include at least 3 hours cross-country, including a trip of 150 NM and landings at two other airports. The candidate will be required to demonstrate an appropriate level of skill and ability through a flight test given by a Transport Canada Examiner, or a person designated by them. The flight test requirements and standards are as specified in the Flight Test Guide from Transport Canada.

There is also requirement for an essential level of knowledge, which will be met through a course of ground school, which shall not be less than 40 hours. The knowledge level will be demonstrated by attaining a minimum of 60% on a written exam consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions. This exam, can be completed right here at the school as we are an authorized exam center. The syllabus and course content are specified in the Study and Reference Guide. The flight training and ground school are separate and do not need to be taken at the same time. You may begin flying before starting ground school, or vice-versa.

Flight Training can begin at any age, but a student must be 14 years old before a Student Pilot Permit can be issued, enabling them to fly solo, and must be 17 years old before a Private Pilot License can be issued which we are also authorized to provide student pilot permits and temporary licensing privileges.

There are certain medical standards which must be met in order to ensure the pilot is healthy enough to be trusted with the operation of an aircraft. These are met through an examination by a Designated Medical Examiner found in your area.

On average, students will need more dual than solo, and more training than the specified minimum 45 hrs required by Transport Canada. Rather than provide a bare minimum cost estimate, we have based our pricing on a more realistic 55 hr completion time. As well, there are no extra hidden charges.