Recreational Pilot Permit
What is a Recreational Pilot Permit?
The Recreational Pilot Permit (RPP) is the quickest and most affordable way to start flying in Canada. With fewer required flight hours and a less demanding medical requirement than the Private Pilot Licence, the RPP is an excellent option for those who want to fly for personal enjoyment within Canada.
RPP Privileges and Limitations
An RPP allows you to:
- Fly in Canada only (not valid outside Canadian airspace)
- Carry a maximum of 1 passenger
- Fly VFR (Visual Flight Rules) in daytime only
- Fly aircraft with 4 seats or fewer
- Fly single-engine, non-high-performance aircraft
Advantages of the RPP
Fewer Hours Required
Only 25 hours of flight training compared to 45 for a PPL, meaning you can be flying sooner.
Lower Cost
Fewer required flight hours translate to lower overall training costs.
Easier Medical
Category 4 medical is less restrictive than the Category 3 required for a PPL.
Younger Start
You can obtain your RPP at age 16, one year earlier than a PPL.
Stepping Stone
All RPP flight hours count towards a PPL if you decide to upgrade later.
Same Great Flying
You still learn to fly the same aircraft and develop real pilot skills.
RPP Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 16 years old |
| Medical Certificate | Category 4 (or higher) |
| Total Flight Time | 25 hours minimum |
| Dual Instruction | 15 hours minimum (with an instructor) |
| Solo Flight Time | 5 hours minimum |
| Written Exam | Transport Canada RPP written exam (RPAER) |
| Flight Test | Practical flight test with a Transport Canada designated examiner |
| Pre-Solo Requirements | PSTAR (90%), ROC exam, medical certificate |
RPP vs PPL Comparison
| Feature | RPP | PPL |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 16 | 17 |
| Medical Category | Category 4 | Category 3 |
| Minimum Flight Hours | 25 | 45 |
| Passengers | 1 maximum | No limit (within aircraft capacity) |
| Where You Can Fly | Canada only | Worldwide |
| Aircraft Limit | 4 seats or fewer | No restriction |
| Night Rating Eligible | No | Yes |
| IFR Rating Eligible | No | Yes |
Getting Started
The steps to start your RPP training are the same as for a PPL. Review our First Steps page for a complete checklist of what you need to do.
Questions? Call 905-838-1400 ext 0 or visit us at the airport.