Become a pilot / Provider due diligence
How do I choose a flight school?
Ask every provider the same questions, visit if practical, and get costs and policies in writing before paying.
Reviewed 24 September 2026 ยท Based on Transport Canada school-selection guidance
First, confirm what the provider offers
Use Transport Canada's flight-training services and flight-training-unit search to identify providers in your region. Ask which licence and aircraft category the school is authorized to train for. If a program advertises an integrated course, ask for the exact approved course name.
A school being listed or approved does not mean it is the best personal fit. Compare access, instruction and terms yourself.
Questions before a deposit
Training
- What licence and ratings does this quote cover?
- Which hours are minimums and what do students typically use?
- How is progress documented? What happens if I change instructor?
Availability
- How many usable training aircraft and instructors are available?
- How many students are waiting for an instructor or check ride?
- How often can I realistically book flying in my season?
Cost and contract
- Which aircraft, instructor, ground school and exam charges are included?
- Are fuel surcharges, taxes, equipment and extra hours separate?
- What are the deposit, refund, cancellation and transfer terms?
Outcome
- Can I meet an instructor and a current student?
- What credential will I hold at completion?
- What support exists if training is delayed or interrupted?
Transport Canada specifically recommends checking fees, aircraft, instructors, scheduling, records, facilities, insurance and school policies. Read its full checklist.
Compare two schools side by side
Keep each unanswered field visible. A polished brochure is not an answer to an aircraft waitlist or refund-policy question.
Open the comparison worksheet