HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical pathway usually starts with learning to fly and building strong pilot experience. In Ontario, certified flying or aviation school plus a commercial pilot’s or air transport pilot’s licence are required for air pilots, while flight engineers require a Flight Engineer Licence issued by Transport Canada. Requirements can vary by role and employer. People often begin with entry-level flying jobs or training positions, then gain more flight hours and teaching experience. Over time, some pilots move from smaller regional operations to larger commercial airlines, and some experienced pilots become instructors. Strong practical skills, good judgment, and comfort with both flying and teaching are important throughout the path.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Instruct student pilots in procedures and techniques of flying aircraft and in ground-school subjects such as navigation, radio procedures and flying regulations
- Train licensed pilots for additional certification.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A flying instructor’s day may start with checking weather, aircraft status, lesson plans, and student progress. A morning lesson might cover ground-school topics such as navigation or radio procedures, followed by a flight where the instructor demonstrates skills and lets the student practise. During the flight, the instructor keeps a close watch on safety, traffic, and conditions while offering calm coaching. Later, they may review what went well, what needs work, and how the student can improve next time. Some days focus more on classroom teaching, record-keeping, or preparing licensed pilots for extra certification. Work can change quickly if weather or flight schedules change, so flexibility matters.
SKILLS TO BUILD