Frequently asked questions

I want to learn to fly, now what?

Your first step in learning to fly is a discovery flight. A discovery flight is a chance to get in the air with our qualified flight instructor and take control for the first time. This is your chance to fully explore what BFC has to offer before making a commitment. Chat with the team, explore the hangar and experience the attmosphere of this friendly, supportive training unit. Your next step should be to connect with a medical examiner and make sure that you clear your medical. It is recommended that the medical should be taken before training begins to ascertain you meet the medical standards. While you can begin your training before its finalized, your approved medical must be received before your instructor can let you fly solo. Transport Canada Authorized Doctor: DR. K.R. Loader, Brandon Clinic Station 2 Phone: (204) 571-7131 Helpful Tip: Please ensure that the name on your medical is exactly the same as on your birth certificate!



How long will it take?

That depends on you! We don't believe one size fits all and we know everyone works at their own rate, depending on time, money and apptitude. Our instructors work with you to make sure that you are able to get the training you need when you need it. Many people attend school or work full-time while getting their licence or permit. In general, full time students will complete a private license in 2-3 months, a full commercial license in 6 months to a year.



What does membership include?

BFC is a first and foremost a not-for-profit club for aviation enthusists to share their joy of aviation and to share that mission with the community. Your membership fees help us to support our mandate by providing the club house, loung and classrooms for your use 7 days a week as well as supporting community events lifke our Fly- In Breakfasts and other social events throughout the year. These events and the business operations of our club help to offset the costs of flying for you, our members and help us reach out to our community. All students are members to BFC which provides them a wonderful opportunity for support and networking. Weather you are looking for a study buddy or a new job the community is here to help you grow. As a licensed pilot or permit holder and a member of the BFC, you are entitled to rent club aircraft for either local flying or extended trips away from Brandon. You also have access to special discounts at places like Enterprise, Lakeview Inn, The Clarion and more.



What is Ground School?

For the flying courses, each student is required to obtain a minimum number of hours of formal lectures on subjects such as Air Regulations, Airmanship, Navigation, Meteorology, Theory of Flight, Pilot Decision Making, Engines, Airframes, and use of the radio. These lectures are supplemented by use of overheads and videotape presentations of various subjects. Ground school lectures are normally held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 18:00 to 22:00 and consist of approximately 40 hours of instruction. Upon completion of ground school and a minimum of ten hours of flying, the student may attempt the Transport Canada written examinations. Arrangements may be made with your instructor. Online instruction and preparation for students who are contemplating or completing a Pilot Licence is also available. Save time and money by studying anywhere at any time! Take your Ground School Online! Click here for more information. http://www.pilottraining.ca/lms2/



What are the required hours to obtain a licence?

Transport Canada sets the standard for all pilot licensing. You must have a minimum number of hours of ground school, 25 hours of flight training for the Recreational Permit (including 5 solo) and 45 hours of flight training (including 12 hours of solo) for the Private License. After you receive an endorsement from your instructor, you may undertake the written exam and flight test.