Flying offers Canadians new challenges and freedoms. Piloting an aircraft is a satisfying hobby, a skill-testing sport, a new source for friendships, a path to a career and a great way to travel.

Aviation in Canada consists of nearly 75,000 pilots flying over 40,000 aircraft from 2,000 airports. With aircraft on skis or floats, the destinations become limited only by the imagination. Once you cross the U.S. border, over 12,000 airports become available to explore.

Flying an aircraft is available to most people. Getting started requires a certain level of fitness, some money and a strong desire. The physical standards are not much more demanding than those for driving a car. Less than one percent of pilot applicants are found unfit. The minimum ages vary with the type of license but you are never too old to learn how to fly. The cost of flying lessons varies with personal ability and frequency of flight training with pay-as-you-go the most popular way to fit your budget.

The knowledge required for the written examination covers navigation, weather, theory of flight, basic aircraft mechanics, air regulations and general airmanship. The material is diverse and interesting. Specialized textbooks and organized courses break it down into easy-to-learn small steps.

Transport Canada is the governing body of aviation in Canada. They set standards as well as developing and administering all the necessary tests for the various levels and aspects of aviation.

Pilot licenses are valid as long as the holder maintains the medical, an acceptable level of proficiency and adheres to air regulations. Once the pilot license has been obtained, rental aircraft are available for either local sightseeing flights or extended vacations in such places as Florida or other getaway spots.

No matter who you are or why you want to fly, you’ll share in the unique feeling of achievement and pride that comes with earning a pilot’s certificate. A whole new world of possibilities will open up to you and you will have a skill that will be an asset in both your personal and professional lives for years to come.