Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot (BCIT Program)

BCIT, one of the biggest aviation training schools in Canada, and Pacific Flying Club, an elite flight-training private school in Western Canada, have joined together to offer a variety of training programs designed to help aspiring airline pilots hone the skills and knowledge they will need to be highly adept professionals in the industry. Students are trained in order to qualify for the Private Pilot Licence (PPL), Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), Multi Engine Rating, Instrument Flight Rating, and Diploma. The certificate is developed specifically for aviation professionals, allowing them to grow reach their professional engagement needs as an exciting air traveler.

The Program

The program is 64 weeks long and operates for 4 terms. It is one of the fastest ways to qualify for a commercial pilot license in Canada while getting a postsecondary diploma. The program offered by the Airline and Flight Operations Program adheres to the Transport Canada security standards and the standards for the aviation industry. It’s offered at BCIT Aerospace and Technology Campus and at the Boundary Bay Airport.

Entrance Requirements

Applicants should come prepared to take the Category 1 Aviation Medical Examination from Transport Canada first; this process takes up the most time.

Application processing

Applications are accepted from June 1st* to January 15th, or the next business day. We recommend that you apply early. All supporting documents must be submitted by the application deadline.

Entrance requirements

Preference will be given to applicants with:

• Academic grades above the minimum
• Requirements completed within the last five years
• Related experience
• Additional post-secondary academic courses

Click here for a detailed list of Entrance Requirements

Recommended for success

• It is strongly recommended that all applicants attend an Airline and Flight Operation Information Session prior to applying for this program.
• A driver’s licence valid in BC is an asset.
• A good understanding of MS Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint) computer software is highly recommended.
• Applicants should also take a familiarization flight at any flying school that offers them.

Validation of previous Private Pilot Licence (PPL) flying time

An applicant who has applied to this program and holds a valid Transport Canada Private Pilot Licence (PPL) may be eligible for a refund relating to flight training fees after the completion of Term 2.The student needs to provide documentation to confirm the planned future return by supplying a copy of a legitimate PPL, customs Transport Canada PPL, and flight test results to the application portal. In Terms 1 and 2, PPL flight training fees are calculated based on 65 hours of flight training time. Once accepted to the program, the student is required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of flight training which will be distributed across Terms 1 and 2. This flight training is necessary to demonstrate competency which will include a mock flight test and to maintain currency. Once the PPL competencies are validated then unused flying fees will be calculated. The maximum refund will not go beyond the equivalent of 45 hours of flight training. It will be refunded no later than the end of Term 2.

International applicants

This program is available to international applicants. A valid study permit is required prior to starting the program.

Apply to program

To submit your application:

• Include proof of meeting all entrance requirements.
• Convert all transcripts and supporting documents to PDF files.
• Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.

Click here to be redirected to British Columbia Institute of Technology to apply. Credit: BCIT Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot