Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
Not published
Time to earn it
about 3 to 5 years
Issued by Transport Canada
Required to start: Captaining an airline aeroplane needs the Transport Canada airline transport pilot licence.
About
This licence shows that a pilot has the skill, knowledge and experience to command large, complex aircraft. It is the top licence for aeroplane pilots. It sits above the private and commercial pilot licences.
It is issued nationally, so it is valid in every province and territory. Many careers in aviation use it, from airline and charter flying to bush flying, aerial firefighting, medical evacuation and search and rescue. Flight instructors, test pilots and corporate pilots also hold it, and some employers look for it when hiring for senior roles.
How to get it
Earn your commercial pilot licence
Start with a private pilot licence, then complete training for a commercial pilot licence. You also need an instrument rating and a multi-engine rating.
Build flying experience
The licence requires a large amount of flight time, including cross-country, night and instrument flying. Most pilots build this time over several years while working in entry-level flying jobs.
Hold a valid medical certificate
You must pass an aviation medical exam with a doctor approved by Transport Canada. The licence needs the highest category of medical certificate.
Complete the ground training
Study advanced topics such as air law, navigation, meteorology, aircraft systems and flight planning. Many pilots use a flight school or ground school course to prepare.
Pass the written exam
Take the Transport Canada written exam for the airline transport pilot licence. It covers the advanced knowledge needed to captain a large aeroplane.
Pass the flight test
Show a Transport Canada flight test examiner that you can fly to the required standard. The test focuses on instrument flying and handling complex situations.
The exam
You must pass a written exam and a flight test. The written exam covers advanced aviation knowledge. The flight test is done with a Transport Canada examiner and checks your skills in the air. Most candidates study for a few months before the written exam.
Careers that mention it
No Canadian career on the site names this yet.
Keeping it
To keep flying, you must keep your medical certificate valid and meet Transport Canada's ongoing requirements. Airline pilots also complete regular training and checks with their employer. Check the current rules with Transport Canada, as requirements can change.