For parents and guardians
Help your student make a careful aviation decision
Interest is a good reason to investigate. It is not a reason to pay a large deposit before the medical, training offer and full cost are understood.
Reviewed 24 September 2026 ยท Sources beside key claims
What pilot training actually involves
A Canadian commercial aeroplane licence requires more than a PPL: Transport Canada sets medical, knowledge, experience and flight-test standards. A typical route includes the PPL and then CPL training, but approved integrated programs differ. Ratings and hiring requirements may follow.
Read the pilot roadmap together. Ask the student which career outcome they are aiming for and which step they are ready to investigate now.
Six things to check
- Medical: if commercial flying is the goal, understand Category 1 and consult a designated examiner. Do not infer eligibility from a website.
- Provider: verify the school's flight-training authorization and the exact program offered.
- Quote: get a written breakdown of dual and solo hours, ground training, tests, taxes, surcharges and equipment.
- Capacity: ask about aircraft, instructors, waitlist and realistic booking frequency.
- Contract: read refund, cancellation, transfer and interruption terms before signing.
- Outcome: distinguish a Transport Canada licence, an academic credential, a school marketing claim and an actual job offer.
Transport Canada recommends reviewing fees, aircraft, staffing, insurance and policies while choosing a school. Official school-selection guide.
Questions to ask as a family
The training provider
- What exactly is included in the price?
- What have recent students paid when they needed extra hours?
- What happens to prepaid funds if training stops?
- Which licence and ratings are included?
Your student
- Why this route and this timing?
- What other aviation roles would you consider?
- How will you manage time, travel and living costs?
- What would make you pause and reassess?
Limits of this guide
Fieldbook does not assess a student's medical fitness, endorse providers, advise on loans, or predict employment. Official regulators, organizers and providers control their own current rules. Use the guide to prepare better questions.