Recreational Pilot Permit

Fly your own adventure!

A recreational pilot permit has many additional restrictions over a Private Pilot License but that doesn't mean that it might not be the right choice for you. It's perfect for students too young to hold a full private license but ready to fly without supervision, or for pilots who just want to fly for fun. If you decide to upgrade to a Private License down the road, its an easy upgrade!

Why Get a Recreational Pilot Permit?

Faster and more affordable entry into aviation
The RPP requires fewer training hours than a Private Pilot Licence, making it a cost-effective way to start flying.

Perfect for leisure flying
Ideal for those who want to fly recreationally, explore local areas, or enjoy aviation as a hobby without committing to a full professional path.

Carry a passenger
Once licensed, you can bring one passenger along and share the experience of flight.

Build a foundation for future training
The RPP can serve as a stepping stone toward more advanced licences, such as the Private or Commercial Pilot Licence.

Flexible and enjoyable learning experience
Training focuses on practical flying skills, making it engaging and rewarding from the very beginning.

Training Requirements

Flight Hours:

Minimum 25 hours total between Dual and Solo flight time
At least 15 hours dual flight time, includes 2 hours Dual Cross Country
And 5 hours solo

Examinations:

Pass the PSTAR and ROC-A examinations to obtain privileges
Pass the Transport Canada Private Pilot Written Exam (PPAER), or
Pass the Transport Canada Recreational Pilot Permit Exam (RPPAE).
Pass the Transport Canada Recreational Pilot Flight Test

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Estimated Duration & Costs

Estimated Duration:

Approximately 2-3 months full time
Approximately 6 months or more part time
Flexible schedules
Training is done at the students convenience

Estimated Costs:

$9,000 approximately, which varies by hours flown
This prices are an estimation of:
- Flight hours
- Ground briefings
- Ground school and Materials
- Flight Test and Written Exam Fees
- Licence application fees

*This calculation is an estimate, costs will vary based on students experience and training hours needed.*

Prerequisites

Age Requirement

Must be 14 years of age by first flight solo and,
Must be 16 years of age at time of completion

Medical Certificate

Must hold a minimum of a category 4 Aviation medical certificate

Language Proficiency

Must be able to read, write, and communicate in English

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RPP vs PPL vs SPP

SPP

Student Pilot Permit

Allows student pilots to conduct solo flights while under the direct supervision of a flight instructor. No passengers may be carried at any time

Age: 14
Medical: Category 4
Test: PSTAR (90% to pass)

RPP

Recreational Pilot Permit

Allows pilots to fly a single engine aircraft with a maximum of 1 passenger anywhere in Canada during daylight VFR conditions only.

Age: 16
Medical: Category 4
Test: RPPAE/ PPEAR written exams (60% or higher to pass)
Recreational Pilot Flight Test

PPL

Private Pilot Licence

Allows pilots to fly a Canadian registered single engine, non-high performance aircraft. A PPL license can be validated with additional ratings for more flexibility.

Age: 17
Medical: Category 3
Test: PPEAR written exams (60% or higher to pass)
Private Pilot Flight Test

Take the first step today!

Submit your application here!

Domestic Student Application Form

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Test it out, book a discovery flight!

+1 (204) 728-7691

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