Choosing a Flight School

flight school

There are plenty of flight schools around the world to choose from, and each employs an abundance of flight instructors. With so many options at your disposal, it can be difficult to decide which one is the right fit for you. Aviation is an exciting field with a lot of potential, but to make the most out of it you need to find the perfect school and instructor.

What kind of a pilot do you want to be?

If you’re thinking of becoming a pilot, the first question to ask yourself is, “What type of pilot do I want to be?” You may choose to pursue a career as a professional aviation pilot or take up the activity recreationally. Both are equally rewarding and provide the opportunity for different types of experiences.

Those who want to become professional pilots must understand that it requires dedication and commitment to obtain the necessary qualifications.

Choosing the flight school

For those looking to learn how to fly, the first question is usually: which flight school has the best reputation for quality of training and customer care? Choosing a flight school can be a daunting task. After all, you want to find one that offers expert instruction from highly experienced instructors as well as top-notch customer service. Fortunately, there are several flight schools in your local area that offer great training and value for money. 

Choosing between Integrated and Modular Training

Integrated training refers to a training program that is a complete package on a set schedule. Integrated programs are structured. You will graduate from an integrated program with a degree or diploma that will go hand in hand with your flight training and licences. Visit this page for more details about Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot at BCIT.

Modular training refers to a training program with a much looser schedule. You may fly a couple times a week after work or on weekends, or every day during the summer between semesters of post-secondary education. Basically, with modular flight training, you create a schedule that fits around the other things you’ve got going on in life, and you create a timeline that suits your ultimate career path plans.

Typically, integrated programs cost more than modular flight training courses, because students are paying for the added bonus of achieving their diploma or degree while they learn to fly. 

Modular training programs break down the process of learning how to fly into individual components (or modules) allowing students to purchase only the courses they need. This means that students don’t pay for any unnecessary courses or extra fees associated with traditional flight schools. It also allows those who are on tight budgets the chance to take certain parts of their course at their own pace – either part-time or full-time – while still being able to train around other commitments.

Choosing the right school for you

When researching schools, look for accredited schools with experienced instructors and quality aircrafts. Quality flight training should include comprehensive instruction on aircraft systems and operations, navigation, communication procedures and safety protocols. To become a commercial pilot you will need to successfully finish approved courses such as the Private Pilot License (PPL) with an Instrument Rating followed by the Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with an Instrument Rating and Multi-Engine Rating. Your instructors should have experience working in aviation so they can provide real-world insight into what it takes to be successful in this field of work.

When you’re looking at websites or visiting schools, look for a training facility where you can finish your PPL, CPL, instrument rating, multi-engine ratings, night rating, and seaplane rating (if your career is headed in that direction). 

Safety record

Above all other considerations, a flight school’s safety record and reputation may be the two most important pieces of information you’ll want to consider.

At a reputable flight school, safety is paramount. Instructors must abide by strict standards to ensure that every aircraft is maintained properly, procedures are followed correctly and any potential hazards are addressed promptly. Additionally, instructors must remain knowledgeable of any changes in regulations or policies and stay up-to-date on their training. The school should also have an established emergency plan in place in case of accidents or other dangerous situations. 

Selecting your flight training centre checklist

  • Date established
  • Graduate history
  • Accreditation
  • Fleet size
  • Simulators
  • Size of staff
  • In house examiners and invigilators
  • Insurance
  • Ground Schools
  • Number of senior instructors on staff

Te see the detailed checklist visit our page Selecting your flight training centre checklist.

What sets PFC apart from others?

PFC’s not-for-profit status allows us to focus on continually upgrading facilities, the fleet, equipment, and no-charge seminars to students and members.

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