Diploma of Technical Studies (Full Time)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How does this program differ from other colleges?

BCIT has developed a program unique in Canada that is designed to give aspiring pilots the skill sets required to become professional pilots as well as a background in the operations and knowledge required to play a role in aviation management. 

Do I require a Private Pilot Licence prior to enrolling? 

BCIT’s Airline & Flight Operations program is designed to train students from the Private up to the Commercial and Multi – IFR rating.  Unlike many other college programs, the candidate does not require a PPL prior to enrollment.

If I hold a Private Pilot Licence, can I still apply and be given full credit for any flying I have done to date?

Students applying with flying experience will be evaluated on an individualized basis by the Director of Flight Operations.  In no cases will experience beyond the Private Pilot Licence Transport Canada minimums be granted.

Can I submit my application without the Category 1 medical?

Students can submit their application to PFC or BCIT but all required documentation will be required prior to processing further.  Applications missing any required documentation will be held as pending and cannot be processed until all requirements are submitted.

Will there be student loans available?

Students interested in obtaining funding through the provincial and federal student loans should contact the BCIT Student Financial Assistance Office for specific details.  Students should be aware that full funding for the entire cost of the program is not available from government sources.

Will I be flying everyday?

Academic courses and flying will be held from 8:30 to 3:30 daily.  Students should note that flying will be scheduled according to the weather and that more or less flying will take place according to schedules and weather patterns.  We will likely schedule more flying in months where statistically the weather has a higher likelihood of co-operating.

Where will the courses be held?

All academic courses will be held at BCIT Aerospace Campus located at the South Terminal side of Vancouver International Airport.  All flying will be located out of Boundary Bay Airport at Pacific Flying Club.

What types of aircraft will I train in?

Students can expect to complete their training in Cessna 152’s and Cessna 172’s with the Multi  and Multi IFR training conducted on a Seneca and/or Seminole. 

What is the uniform requirement?

Students will be expected to wear dark navy pants, professional pilot shirt and tie at all times.  We are training professional pilots and expect the student to dress appropriately during their training.

What will the pre-entry assessment test be examining?

The pre-entry aviation written test is one tool used to evaluate prospective students.  It will test the student’s mechanical reasoning, abstract thinking, math, and English.  A sample is available on BCIT’s web site.

What can I expect from the pre-selection interview?

Prospective students will be evaluated on interpersonal and verbal communication skills.  BCIT has limited seats available in this program and want to ensure that students accepted into this program meet the criteria for ultimate success. 

Are there any additional costs over and above the quoted?

BCIT costing includes all flying costs and written and flight test fees as well as all books and supplies required to complete the program.  Should insurance or fuel costs escalate beyond normal expected increases, BCIT reserves the right to charge a surcharge on flying to be completed.