What are the requirements?
The minimum age requirements are 14 for a student pilot permit and 17 for a private pilot license. There is no maximum age as it has little to do with a person’s ability to fly well. Transport Canada requires a routine medical periodically to ensure that the pilot has no medical problem that would interfere with the pilot’s ability to fly safely. Glasses and contact lenses are perfectly acceptable. Applicants must be able to read, speak and understand the English or French language. Physical handicaps are not necessarily a barrier to earning your pilot’s license.

How long will it take?
The average student pilot completes the requirements for a private pilot license within twelve months. Some students take as little as two months to complete the course. It depends on various factors, the biggest ones being how often you can fly and how much time you put in on the ground BEFORE showing up for your lesson.

How safe is it?
As pilot-in-command of an aircraft, you are also in command of most of the variables that affect safety. With excellent equipment, thorough training and prudent judgment, your flying can be at a very high safety level.

Do I have to own an airplane?
Not at all. Aviation Academy Niagara has rental aircraft available for local sightseeing or cross country trips. If you happen to be in another part of Canada or the U.S., most airports have rental aircraft available.

Do I pay a Membership Fee?
Many flight schools require you to pay an initiation fee as well as an annual membership fee just for the privilege of flying their airplane. This membership fee often ranges between $100 and $200 per year. At Aviation Academy Niagara there are no up-front fees, only quality flight training and superbly maintained aircraft.

Where are we located?
Aviation Academy Niagara is located in the main terminal building at the Niagara District Airport on highway 55 in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Pilot Employment Opportunities?
Upon completion of the Commercial Pilot course, opportunities may be available for those who qualify, as a tour pilot with Niagara Air Tours Ltd. or as a flight instructor. For many, this is the first step toward their airline career.