Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to the most common questions we receive about learning to fly at Brampton Flight Centre.
The age requirements in Canada depend on what stage of training you are at:
- 14 years old — You can begin flight training (dual instruction with an instructor).
- 16 years old — You can fly solo and obtain a Recreational Pilot Permit (RPP).
- 17 years old — You can obtain a Private Pilot Licence (PPL).
- 18 years old — You can obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).
There is no upper age limit for learning to fly, as long as you can pass the required aviation medical examination.
You need an aviation medical certificate issued by a Civil Aviation Medical Examiner (CAME) approved by Transport Canada. The category you need depends on the licence you are pursuing:
- Category 4 — Recreational Pilot Permit (RPP). This is the least restrictive medical and is similar to a driver's licence exam.
- Category 3 — Private Pilot Licence (PPL). A more thorough examination including vision and hearing tests.
- Category 1 — Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and ATPL. The most comprehensive medical exam, required for professional pilots.
We recommend booking your medical early, as it can take several weeks to receive your certificate from Transport Canada. You must have your medical before your first solo flight.
The time it takes to earn your pilot licence depends on several factors, including weather, your schedule availability, the time of year you start, and how quickly you progress.
- RPP: Some students complete their RPP in as little as 3-4 months if they fly frequently.
- PPL: Most recreational students complete their PPL in 6 to 12 months when flying 2-3 times per week.
- CPL: A Commercial Pilot Licence typically takes 12-18 months on a self-paced basis after earning your PPL.
Flying regularly (at least 2-3 times per week) is the most important factor in completing your training efficiently. Long gaps between lessons mean you spend time reviewing rather than progressing.
PPL Ground School at BFC runs for 16 weeks, with classes held three times per week:
- Tuesday: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
New sessions start several times per year. Visit the Ground School page for the current schedule and registration information.
The Transport Canada minimum flight hours for each licence are:
| Licence | TC Minimum | Typical Actual |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Pilot Permit (RPP) | 25 hours | 35-45 hours |
| Private Pilot Licence (PPL) | 45 hours | 60-90 hours |
| Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) | 200 hours | 200-250 hours |
The actual hours needed vary by individual. Flying regularly, staying current with ground school material, and using chair-flying techniques at home can help minimize the total hours required.
Yes. BFC is a certified educational institution and issues T2202 tuition tax receipts for eligible students. To qualify, you must meet minimum monthly training hour thresholds set by the Canada Revenue Agency.
Visit our Tax Receipt Information page for full details on eligibility and how to request your T2202.
The cost depends on the number of flight hours you need and the type of licence you are pursuing. Major cost components include:
- Aircraft rental (charged per flight hour)
- Flight instructor fees (charged per hour for dual lessons)
- Ground school tuition
- Membership fees
- Books and supplies
- Medical exam and Transport Canada exam fees
- Flight test fee
Visit our Rental Rates page for current aircraft and instructor rates.
While you can begin dual flight lessons before completing ground school, we strongly recommend starting ground school first or concurrently with your flight training. The knowledge you gain in ground school directly supports what you learn in the air.
Before you can fly solo, you must pass the PSTAR exam (90%) and the Radio Operator Certificate exam (70%), both of which are covered in ground school.
Still Have Questions?
Call us at 905-838-1400 ext 0, or contact us online. We are happy to help!