How to become a helicopter pilot in Canada
First of all, ask yourself these three questions:
- Am I medically fit?
- Do I like to travel?
- Do I like the outdoors?
If you have answered yes to these important questions, you will need to find a Transport Canada Doctor for a pilot medical, a Flight Training School for pilot training information and research the industry for employment opportunities.
You may find information at tc.gc.ca/CivilAviation/menu.htm
Go to Civil Aviation Medicine to book a Transport Canada medical with an approved Transport Canada doctor in your area. Fees vary around $100.00 to $150.00 for a medical.
Go to General Aviation/Flight Training to locate a Flight Training School that you may wish to attend. Careful consideration must be given to the training school location, total training costs, the type of equipment used in training, endorsements provided with the training, experience of the instructors, the flight school reputation and credibility and potential employment opportunities after pilot training is completed.
Investigate and research the industry, potential hiring opportunities and secure training funds to complete the 100 – 150 hour training courses.
The life of a helicopter pilot is exciting, as you will operate highly technical equipment in specialized tasks and assignments. Flight operations occur in all kinds of weather conditions, various types of terrain, in isolated and sometimes sparsely populated areas of the country transporting passengers, supplies and equipment as needed.
