5 Weeks
Private Pilot License
Obtain foundational certification to operate private aircraft. Develop flight navigation, safety, and operational knowledge essential for general aviation careers.
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Take the First Step into Aviation
This is the first step of your flight training! Through your Private Pilot License (PPL) training you will be able to fly as Pilot In Command on aircraft up to 12,500 pounds with as many passengers as the aircraft is certified to carry. During the day (Day-VFR) while maintaining visual contact with the ground. Even if you are working toward becoming an airline pilot you must start here. If you choose to fly recreationally this may be your first and final stop. It is important to note that the holder of a PPL may not fly for hire or compensation.
Students will be thoroughly prepared to meet Transport Canada’s standards for private pilots, laying the groundwork for further aviation pursuits.
- Comprehensive flight training and ground school instruction.
- Emphasis on fundamental piloting skills and aeronautical knowledge.
- Preparation for Transport Canada’s Private Pilot License examination.
Next Intakes
Contact our admissions team today or request information on upcoming program start dates.
Career Opportunities in PILOTING
Start Your Career in Aviation
Upon completion, graduates will possess the skills and certifications to operate aircraft for private recreation only.
- Private Pilot: Fly personal or rented aircraft for leisure or business purposes.
- Aviation Enthusiast: Participate in recreational flying clubs and activities.
- Pathway to Commercial Pilot: Serve as a foundational step toward a professional piloting career.
Why Study at Western Community College
Western Community College offers students an inclusive and vibrant learning environment, with dedicated support services to ensure your academic success and personal well-being.
- Installment-based, low tuition fee.
- Choose weekday, weekend, or evening classes to fit your schedule.
- Part-time or full-time class schedule.
- Free CLB preparation classes (*Conditions Apply).
Begin Your Path in AVIATION
Admission Requirements
Applicants for this program must provide the proof of following:
- An applicant shall be a minimum of 17 years of age.
Completion Requirements
- To successfully complete the program, you must pass the PPAER exam with a minimum of 60% marks and receive a “Pass” from the Designated Flight Test Examiner (DFTE) on the Flight Test.
- CAT 3 Aviation Medical Certification
- Your progress will be assessed through a series of exams, including the CPAER exam, which serves as the final exam for the ground school course, and the Flight Test, which ensures your flying skills meet the required standards.
Apply Now
Take the next step toward your future!
Gain the skills you need for success and take the first step toward a rewarding career. Enroll today to learn essential industry knowledge, enhance your expertise, and open doors to new opportunities.
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Total program
hours
45
TOTAL FLIGHT HOURS
8
CAMPUSES ACROSS BC
97%
Graduate Employment Rate
Aerodynamics and Theory of Flight:
Taught in our Abbotsford classroom. Instructions on all the forces encountered flying an airplane. How lift is generated and maximized. Theory of lift and drag. Aircraft stability and how it is achieved.
Airframes Engines and Systems: Taught in our Abbotsford classroom. Objective is to achieve a high level of understanding of all the components of an aircraft. The knowledge required to comprehend how load factors affect an aircraft an how to utilize a formula that must be utilized. Obtain and memorize all of the V-speeds of the aircraft that commercial training will take place on. Learn operational understanding of weight and balance. Memorize specific operational speeds. Obtain thorough operational knowledge of how to utilize Personal and Maintenance Logbooks. Pilot Operating handbooks. Definition of elementary work as per the Company Maintenance Control Manual.
Air Regulations and Licensing: How to utilize the internet to be operational regarding the Canadian Aviation Regulation. Minimum equipment lists for aircraft depending on where they operate. Regulations and minimum requirements regarding licensing and ratings. Recency requirements and Medical classifications
Human Factors and Pilot Decision Making: In classroom Abbotsford classroom. Detailed analysis, discussion and how to utilize the physiology and psychology that needs to be utilized before Any flight takes place. A lot of instructor experience and case studies will be used to obtain expertise in these subjects. Crew Resource Management will also be covered as the majority of commercial flying is conducted in a multi-crew environment.
Meterology: Working knowledge of weather, more specifically, the levels of the atmosphere, cloud formation and weather associated. Comprehension of thunderstorms and how to utilize Transport Canada forecasts for safe airmanship as well as success for the written exam.
Navigation: Obtain operational expertise in flight planning using maps and more specifically computes, ipads and GPS for successfully completing the cross country flights. Also covering the use of and formulas to utilize VOR’s and ADF’s covering all topics regarding the Transport Canada exams
Radio Navigation: Classroom study and flight training regarding the more specific use of GPS, VOR and ADF and the theory involved with how these systems operate
Flight Instruments: In classroom instruction regarding all of the instruments the student will see and utilize in their flight training and further in their aviation career. Theory on how all instruments operate will be covered.
Operations: How flights are dispatched, mandatory weight and balances conducted, use of the Pilot Operating handbook to determine take off distances and landing distances will be covered. Mandatory Documentation, thorough knowledge of Emergency Procedures. Fueling, maintenance requests will also be covered.
| Course Name | In-Class Hours |
|---|---|
| Aerodynamics and Theory of Flight | 5 |
| Airframe Engines and Systems | 5 |
| Air Regulations and Licensing | 5 |
| Human Factors and Pilot Decision Making | 5 |
| Meteorology | 4 |
| Navigation | 4 |
| Radio Navigation | 4 |
| Flight Instructors | 4 |
| Operations | 4 |
| PPL 102 – Flight Training | 45 |
| Total | 85 |
Our Academic Partners
We collaborate with leading Legal profession courses to ensure our curriculum is relevant and up-to-date, providing our students with valuable insights and connections.
Our PartnersFee Structure
Tuition & Financing
We offer competitive tuition rates and flexible financing options to make your education at Western Community College both accessible and affordable.
BC Student Loan
In-house Financing
Student Line of Credit
Scholarships
Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.
Finance Options-
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