How do I get started flying?

To get started flying at Spectrum Airways, first sign up for one of our 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. From there you will apply to one of our pilot programs found here.

What is involved in getting a Private Pilot Licence?

Your training will involve both in-flight training, and ground school (each are separate entities). You can start your flight training any time you want, and you can schedule your own time (as much or as little as you want). The ground school is usually held on Monday - Thursday evenings (once a week) or Saturday mornings. The dates are based on the ground school you sign up for and will be on the same day every week.

What is the difference between a Private Pilot Licence and a Recreational Permit?

A Recreational Permit is just that, it is a "permit," not a licence. There is less training required for a Recreational Permit, but more restrictions. You can find more information about the Private Pilot Licence and Recreational Pilot Permit here.

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!

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 or our Student Administrator for assistance.

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 Discovery Flight.

Do I have to pay for an annual fee?

No, fortunately Spectrum Airways does not charge an annual fee or also known as a ‘club fee’.

How far ahead should I book for a lesson?

As you may or may not know, weekends tend to be our busiest time of the week. 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. 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 do I need to do to become a Commercial Pilot?

First things first – you will need to get a Private Pilot licence. If you are interested in becoming an “airline pilot”, you will need a Commercial licence, and a Multi-IFR (Multi Engine rating with an Instrument Rating). Please refer to information about our Advanced Commercial Pilot Licence here.

So, how do I get started?

We recommend you first book your Introductory Lesson, which will get you out to the Airport and up for an introductory lesson. At that time, you can go for a tour of the facility and ask your Instructor any questions that you have about licensing, and your training. We also recommend that you put your name on the list for the next ground school as soon as possible.