Commercial Pilot License

Turn Your Passion into a Profession

If you're dreaming of flying for a living , whether as an airline pilot, charter pilot, bush pilot, or flight instructor, the Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is the next major step after earning your Private Pilot License (PPL). The CPL allows you to fly aircraft for hire, meaning you can be paid to do what you love.

Why Get a Commercial Pilot License?

Start a Career in Aviation:
A CPL is required for almost any job as a professional pilot in Canada, including airline training programs, medevac, aerial survey, firefighting, and flight instruction.

Sharpen Your Skills:
Commercial pilot training focuses on advanced flight techniques, precision flying, and professional-level decision-making. It builds your confidence, situational awareness, and overall airmanship.

Access More Opportunities:
With a CPL, you can fly passengers, cargo, or perform specialized operations , expanding your career options across Canada and internationally.

Step Toward Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL):
The CPL is a key milestone on the way to the ATPL, which is required to captain large commercial aircraft.

female pilot with Cessna 172 in Manitoba

Private Pilot License

Must hold a valid PPL

Age Requirement

Must be at least 18 years of age at time of completion

Medical Requirement

Must hold a category 1 aviation medical

Language Requirements

ALPD of a minimum of 5 or IELTS score of 6.0 with no band under 5.5

Flight Training

200 hours total flight time including
- 100 hours PIC including
  - 20 hours PIC cross country
65 hours CPL training time (does not include PPL hours)
- 35 hours dual training including
  - 5 hours night including
    - 2 hours night cross country
  - 5 hours cross country (may include the 2 night hours)
  - 20 hours instrument flying (max 10 hours in a simulator)
- 30 hours solo training time including
  - 5 hours night including 10 takeoffs and landings
  - 25 hours general skill practice
  - 300 NM cross country flight

Ground School

80 hours of CPL ground school

Examinations

Transport Canada CPAER written exam (minimum 60%)
Flight test with a Transport Canada examiner

Open Enrollment

Start when you want and work at your own pace. Full time and part time options are available.

Commercial Airport

Train on a 6000 foot long runway and mingle with the local, regional and national pilots arriving at BFC!

All - Season Training

All season flight training! The four contrasting seasons allow pilots to get experience flying in various weather conditions.

Job Opportunities

Be ready to launch your career! Pilots are on the in demand occupation list in Manitoba, meaning no shortage of job prospects.