Frequently Asked Questions
Please read our Admissions Update:
How do I get started flying?
To get started flying at Spectrum Airways, please download our free information sessions here! This will give you all of the information you need to start your flight training, and answer any questions you have about progression and requirements to get your license.
Do I need to do anything in advance to take an Introductory Lesson?
No, you do not need to do anything! Basically, you will need to make a booking (we are open 7 days a week) and just show up! You do not need a medical or any permits to be able to do the discovery flight. Please note that the discovery flight will only be conducted if the weather is suitable. Call in before your flight to ensure you will be able to fly!
PLEASE NOTE: We are currently not scheduling Introductory Lessons in Burlington as we are at capacity with our current students. Please see our Admissions Update for further details.
What is the difference between all of your programs?
If you're looking to fly recreationally or as a personal goal, our Private Pilot Licence (PPL) program is a great place to start. You can find detailed information, including training structure and estimated costs, here: Spectrum Airways PPL program.
If you're considering a career in aviation, we recommend exploring our Advanced Commercial Pilot Licence (ACPL) program. This full training pathway includes your PPL, Night Rating, CPL, Multi-Engine, and Instrument Rating—all designed to prepare you for a professional career in aviation. Learn more here: Spectrum Airways ACPL Program
We also offer a free downloadable Information Session, which provides a great overview of the pilot lifestyle, industry outlook, training options, and how to apply: FREE INFORMATION SESSION
I just want to fly recreationally, which program should I apply for?
Our Private Pilot Licence (PPL) program is perfect for recreational pilots. This licence encompasses the first 3 phases of our ACPL program, so if you decide later that you would like to continue your training with a Commercial Pilot licence or further ratings, you are welcome to do so!
PPL Training:
Phase 1: Introductory flight training, air exercises, PPL ground school and first solo.
Phase 2: PPL Cross Countries.
Phase 3: Written exam, PPL flight test.
By the end of Phase 3, successful candidates will have earned their Private Pilot Licence (PPL).Click here for more information about our PPL Program.
How does your ACPL program work?
Our ACPL program is a comprehensive, structured training path designed to take you from your first flight all the way through to a Commercial Pilot Licence with a Multi-Engine and Instrument Rating (Multi-IFR) in 6 phases. It’s the ideal track for students pursuing a professional career in aviation, offering a consistent and focused approach to flight training with ongoing mentorship and support throughout.
The ACPL is divided into multiple progressive phases, each designed to build your skills in a deliberate, step-by-step way:
PPL Phase 1-3: Private Pilot Licence Training
Phase 1: Introductory flight training, air exercises, PPL ground school and first solo.
Phase 2: PPL Cross Countries.
Phase 3: Written exam, PPL flight test.
By the end of Phase 3, successful candidates will have earned their Private Pilot Licence (PPL).
CPL Phase 3-6: Commercial Pilot Licence Training with Multi-IFR
Phase 4 (Time Building): Structured time-building flights to meet CPL experience requirements.
Phase 5: CPL flight test & written exam.
Phase 6: Multi-Engine Rating & Group 1 Instrument Rating: Training in our multi-engine aircraft (flight test) and under instrument flight rules (flight test and written test).
By the end of Phase 6, successful candidates will graduate with their Commercial Pilot Licence with Multi-Engine and IFR ratings. Click here for more information about our ACPL program.
What is the difference between your ACPL and your Career Pilot Pathway (CPP) program?
For students aiming to complete both their ACPL and Instructor Rating, our Career Pilot Pathway (CPP) Program offers a streamlined approach by adding an optional Phase 7: Instructor Rating after your ACPL is completed.
Note: The Multi-IFR and Instructor Rating portions of the program are exclusively available at our Burlington campus .
Enrolling in the CPP program provides a cohesive and efficient path to achieving your professional aviation goals. Find more information about our CPP program here: Career Pilot Pathway (CPP) Program
Do I have to finish ground school before I start flying?
No, we find that students learn better if they are conducting their flight training and ground school concurrently. This helps understanding some of the more abstract concepts in the ground, as well as better understanding the theory behind the exercises in the air. Completion of the first 4-5 ground school sessions tends to better prepare students for their in flight training.
What if I miss a ground school class?
When you register for Ground School you are responsible for ensuring you are available to attend all of the classes scheduled. If your name is not on the attendance sheet, you will not be credited for that class. You need 40 hours total of ground school (not including the time for exams) and you have to ensure that you have had instruction in all the areas listed in the PTR on page 7. These hours must be acknowledged with the appropriate signatures as per Transport Canada requirements. You may choose to make up a class one-on-one with an instructor at the PGI rate. You can always ask other students to share this cost (if they need to make up the same class).
How do I know which instructor to choose?
We have a wide variety of instructors at Spectrum Airways. Upon acceptance into our flight school, you will be assigned a Flight Instructor. Each Spectrum Airways Flight Instructor is certified by Transport Canada. We request that you fly with one primary instructor and one back-up instructor as it is crucial to have continuity to ensure effective, efficient flight lessons while also helping to keep costs down. If you have difficulty in making bookings with your instructor, please speak your instructor or reach out to our CFI: cfi@spectrumairways.com.
What's involved in an Aviation Medical?
To get a Private Pilot Licence, you will need a “Category III” Medical, which must be conducted by a Transport Canada approved medical examiner. This medical is to ensure you are “fit to fly” as the holder of a private pilots licence. The fees vary from examiner to examiner, but are generally around $150.00. We have a list of examiners in the area available for you. If you are getting a Recreational Permit, you will need a “Category IV” Medical, which can be conducted by your family doctor. You do not need to have your medical done before your Introductory Lesson.
Do I have to pay for an annual fee?
No, Spectrum Airways does not charge an annual fee or also known as a ‘club fee’.
How far ahead should I book for a lesson?
We recommend you book at least 4-6 weeks ahead to ensure the time, instructor and aircraft which you would prefer.
How long does it take to get a licence?
Transport Canada’s minimums for flight training is 45 hours. 17 dual (with an instructor), and 12 solo (by yourself). The average flight time which a student takes though is 65 hours including dual and solo. There is no set time which we can give you; it totally depends on the student and how often they are able to come in, the availability of instructors and planes, as well as the weather.
What do "dual" and "solo" mean?
“Dual” means the training you do with your Instructor in the airplane with you. “Solo” means training you do in the airplane on your own. Your training will be made up of both dual & solo hours.
What will I be tested on?
Both a Transport Canada Flight Test and Written Exam are required for. The in-flight training will get you ready for your Flight Test and the ground school will get you ready for your written exam.
What if I want more information?
We offer a free downloadable Information Session! This session provides valuable insight into the life of a pilot, the current industry outlook, training options, what Spectrum Airways has to offer, and how to get started with your application.
To access the session, simply visit www.spectrumairways.com/infosession and download it at your convenience.
So, how do I get started?
PLEASE CHECK OUR ADMISSIONS UPDATE PAGE:
Testimonials
“Learning a skill like flying requires a very special rapport with someone who has patience and challenges you to your limits. This makes you a better pilot and improves your character as a person. Spectrum Airways provided these people to me and as a result I feel fully qualified and confident taking to the skies.”
“BP Imaging has flown with Spectrum Airways for more than 20 years taking high quality aerial photographs throughout Southern Ontario. The Staff and Pilots are great to work with and always do their best to accommodate our schedule and ensure that all of our needs are met. I would highly recommend Spectrum for your next photo flight!”
“It’s a fun, yet professional environment, and I enjoy the heck out of flying the diverse fleet at Spectrum Airways.”
“I always dreamed of flying but could never imagine myself doing it until I met the folks at Spectrum Airways. They showed me that it was possible, affordable and safe and that someone like me who had never even been in a small plane could get their pilot’s licence. I have a private, multi-engine and at one time a multi-engine IFR rating all attained through Spectrum Airways. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I actually be a pilot?” The answer is yes. And the place to begin that journey is Spectrum Airways!”