RECREATIONAL PILOT PERMIT
The Recreational Pilot Permit allows you to fly single-engine aircraft up to 4 seats, however it comes with a number of restrictions that are not imposed on Private Pilot License holders.
RPP REQUIREMENTS
AEROMEDICAL
Students must be at least 14 years old to start training, and must be 16 years old to have their permit signed off.
As well, you must have a valid medical. A category 1 or 3 medical must be obtained through a Transport Canada Certified Aviation Medical Examiner, though a category 4 medical can be obtained through your family doctor.
You must also be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
GROUND SCHOOL
Ground school is not required by Transport Canada for this permit. However, it is recommended that students complete at least forty hours of ground school, covering Air Law, Meteorology, Navigation and Aeronautical General Knowledge.
MINIMUM FLYING REQUIREMENTS
This permit requires students to complete a minimum of twenty five hours of in flight training consisting of eighteen hours of dual flying, seven hours of solo flying and approximately four hours of ground instruction.
TRAINING COST
Demonstrating proficiency throughout this process and preparing for the flight test usually requires more time than the Transport Canada minimums. Accounting for these additional hours we usually advise that students budget $12,000-$15,000 plus GST to spend on their training.
Non-Flying Expenses Include:
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Pilot kit (everything required for private and commercial training) – $295
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Recreational Pilot Permit ground school, (optional) – $250
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Written Exam – $110
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English Proficiency Test – $100
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Flight Test Fee – $400
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Licence Sign Off Fee – $75
HOW LONG IS THIS GOING TO TAKE?
Timeline depends on student dedication and availability.
WHAT CAN I DO WITH AN RPP?
YOU CAN
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Fly anywhere within Canada,
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Fly with 1 passenger only,
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Fly single engine aircraft with a maximum seating capacity of 4,
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Fly during the day in safe weather that allows you to maintain visual contact with the ground.
YOU CAN NOT
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Fly with more than 1 passenger,
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Fly anywhere outside of Canada,
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Fly at night,
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Fly in weather conditions where you cannot maintain visual contact with the ground,
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Fly aircraft with more than 1 engine or more than 4 seats,
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Fly high performance aircraft, or
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Obtain additional ratings to fly larger aircraft or in other conditions.