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featuredSep 1 - Sep 1, 2028
Tuition
$8,312
Scholarships available
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featuredAug 24 - Aug 24, 2030
Tuition
$27,756
Scholarships available
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Sep 1 - Sep 1, 2028
Tuition
$88,154
Scholarships available
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featuredMar 2 - Mar 2, 2028
Tuition
$92,500
- featured
Tuition
$92,500
- featured
Tuition
$95,200
- featured
Jan 5 - Jan 5, 2028
Tuition
$124,304
Scholarships available
About
You’re in the skies, steering enormous planes through the air in miraculous feats of physics – or you’re on the ground, making it possible for thousands of people to step foot in a brand new city each day. A career in aviation is nothing short of a dream job.
Aviation has gone from literal flights of fancy to a fundamental industry crucial to the business of tourism, supply chains, and trade, among others. Today, it makes up approximately 3.8 percent of Canada’s GDP, and ranks among the top industries for Canadian research and development spending.
There are lots of ways to approach a career in aviation. You might fly commercial routes as a pilot, design and engineer airplanes as an aircraft maintenance engineer, or guide pilots safely through airspace as an air traffic controller.
And the skills required are as varied as the jobs themselves; for example, where an aircraft maintenance engineer will regularly use maths and physics for the maintenance and improvement of aviation equipment, a flight attendant must have excellent customer service skills, high adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and more.
Each role in the aviation industry has its own training and licensing requirements. For example, to operate an agricultural sprayer — farming equipment used for aerially applying fertilizer, herbicides or pesticides to crops — a person must obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence. On the other hand, a pilot who works exclusively for commercial airlines flying passenger planes must obtain an Airline Transport Pilot Licence. No matter your end goal, you’ll need a Private Pilot Licence, the first step to legally piloting an aircraft solo.
Whichever aviation career a candidate pursues, the necessary certifications, licences, degrees, diplomas and training can be obtained at flight schools, colleges, and universities throughout Canada.
Salaries within the aviation industry vary as greatly. For example, a commercial airline pilot in Canada can earn between $65,000 and $125,000 per year, depending on where you work. Entry-level positions for flight attendants begin at $40,000 a year, going up to $56,000 per year, whereas aerospace engineers and air traffic controllers earn average salaries above $100,000 annually.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of jobs are there in aviation?
Anyone wanting to become a pilot also has a plethora of career options to choose from: where commercial airline pilots fly passengers to and from destinations, private or charter pilots operate planes owned by individuals or companies. Cargo pilots transport parcels and packages for companies, while helicopter pilots can find work within emergency medical services or law enforcement. Learn more about how to become a pilot.
For commercial airlines, flight attendants support passengers throughout the duration of the flight. On the ground, air traffic controllers use radar technology and communications to guide pilots safely.
Meanwhile, aircraft safety inspectors and aircraft maintenance workers ensure an aircraft is safe to fly, by checking that it is in-line with regulation. Aircraft maintenance engineers repair and maintain an aircraft to ensure it remains airworthy, while aerospace engineers and aeronautical engineers design the airplanes themselves.
Is aviation in demand in Canada?
Yes, aviation is an industry actively recruiting motivated workers. In 2023, the Canadian aerospace industry contributed $28.9 billion to the country’s GDP and 218,000 jobs to the Canadian economy. In order to sustain growth and fill retirement vacancies, the Canadian Council for Aviation & Aerospace (CCAA) estimates that the aviation workforce must be increased by 50 percent by 2028. This means that Canada has a high demand for professionals entering the aviation industry.
What field is best for aviation?
While dependent on a person’s individual career aspirations, some of the highest-paying careers in aviation are that of pilots, aircraft maintenance crew, and aircraft engineers.
Other jobs in the industry, such as airport operators — which includes patrolling the airport runway to ensure there are no obstructions, monitoring airport checking gates, and more — may also see a high level of career growth; according to Talent.com, entry level positions for airport operators start at $52,000 per year, and can go up to $113,000 per year.
Is aviation a stressful field?
Aviation can be a stressful industry, regardless of which specialization a professional pursues. This is especially true for airline pilots, who deal with irregular schedules and are responsible for the safety of their crew and passengers, and air traffic controllers, who must concentrate intensely for prolonged periods of time, while making precise decisions to ensure the safety of the aircraft they are directing. However, employees in both professions receive training for how to handle the stresses of their occupations.
Is it hard to become a pilot?
Becoming a pilot requires months of training to obtain a proper licence; for example, in Canada, a candidate wanting to fly a commercial passenger airliner must obtain, in order, their:
- Student Pilot Permit (SPL)
- Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
- Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL)
As an example, a Commercial Pilot licence can require 80 hours in ground school instruction covering topics like Canadian Aviation Regulations, aerodynamics and theory of light, meteorology, airframes engines and systems, flight instruments, radio and electronic theory, navigation, and flight operations, as well as human factors including pilot decision-making.
From there, a candidate is expected to complete 200 hours of flight time, with 100 hours as pilot-in-command, and 20 hours of cross-country flights, 35 hours of dual instruction with a flight instructor, and 30 hours of solo flight time.
Tuition for a commercial pilot licence can range from $29,000 to $73,000, and take between 11 months to 4 years to complete, depending on whether it’s a certificate or university degree. You can learn more about grants, loans, and scholarships for flight school here, with more information under ‘Certification’.
Certification
While employer requirements may vary, not all roles within the aviation industry require a candidate to hold a specific licence or certificate in order to be hired — for example, an airport terminal operator or flight attendant. However, certain roles, such as aircraft maintenance workers, engineers, and pilots do require certification.
To become a pilot in Canada, a candidate must first hold a Student Pilot Permit (SPL), which can be attained as early as 14 years of age. From there, individuals can pursue their Private Pilot Licence (PPL); candidates must be 17 years of age, hold a Category 1 or 3 Medical Certificate, and complete 40 hours of ground school instruction, and 45 hours of flight training. Form there, candidates must obtain certification from Transport Canada.
With PPL in hand, a candidate wanting to become a commercial airline pilot can apply for their Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). Here, individuals must complete 80 hours of ground school instruction, 200 hours of flight time, 100 hours as pilot-in-command, and 20 hours of cross-country flights. From there, to fly a passenger plane for airlines like Air Canada or WestJet, candidates must obtain their Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL). The highest licence that can be achieved as a civil pilot, it requires 1500 hours of flight time for eligibility; courses can vary anywhere from 18 months to five years, and cost from $53,000 to $145,000.
To become an aerospace engineer, a candidate will require a Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field, like mechanical engineering. Undergraduate programs typically take four years of full-time study to complete; certain aviation employers may require candidates to hold a postgraduate degree, or additional provincially-regulated permits and certificates.
Individuals interested in becoming an aircraft maintenance technician are required to obtain an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s (AME) licence issued by Transport Canada. This requires the completion of AME basic training, offered by accredited institutions typically as a two-year diploma, covering everything from repair maintenance to the electrical systems of an aircraft.
For aspiring air traffic controllers, NAV CANADA offers training and licensing as the authority of air navigation services in Canada. If accepted into NAV CANADA’s program, candidates will receive paid training for 37.5 hours per week; this full-time commitment covers theory, air traffic simulators, and on-the-job learning. Once a candidate moves past basic training, students will switch to shift work for 34-hour weeks.
The full training period typically takes one year. Paid training salaries differ depending on a person’s career track, but for air traffic controllers, can range between $56,899 to $59,550 according to NAV CAN, with salary increases once fully qualified (ranging between $80,000 – $133,000 for those with experience under their belts).
While some careers in aviation may not require it, aspiring professionals may benefit from obtaining degrees, diplomas and certificates in the field; for example, there are a variety of aviation-specific courses available through accredited institutions like the Canadian Airports Online College, covering subjects like airport commercial management, airport business operations, airfield maintenance, and more.
The EWA.1F Commercial air transport pilot – Integrated ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence) program by Select Aviation College provides rigorous training to achieve the highest level of pilot licensing in the world. The program is based on a continuous learning … Continue reading
Tuition
$92,500
Tuition
$92,500
The Canadian Integrated Airline Transport Pilot Licence (CIATPL) program is the choice for those who want a career as a professional pilot – and have little to no previous flight experience or training. The programs’ Transport Canada-approved curriculum provides students … Continue reading
Prepare for an exciting career as a professional pilot. The current unprecedented demand and projected growth in the aviation industry offers numerous opportunities to excel post-graduation. Conestoga’s two-year Commercial Flight Operations program allows students to enter the industry quickly with … Continue reading
Sep 1 - Sep 1, 2028
Tuition
$88,154
Scholarships available
Tuition
$88,154
Scholarships available
Centennial College’s Aviation Technician – Avionics Maintenance program is geared to the needs of the aircraft industry and will give learners the essential theoretical knowledge and the practical skills to apply that knowledge on real aircraft and aircraft systems, under … Continue reading
Select Aviation’s Private Pilot Licence Helicopter program is for individuals looking to fly helicopters. Graduates can explore further options looking to start a career as a professional pilot. Private Pilot Licence – Helicopter training is a comprehensive program covering theoretical … Continue reading
This program is geared toward motivated individuals looking for rewarding careers in software engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering, product development, machine learning, artificial intelligence, aerospace, internet networking, cyber security, internet-of-things, robotics, and the next generation of smart devices and technology. … Continue reading
Tuition & Completion Data
Domestic
Last updated: October 10, 2025
International
See below for the latest data on international student tuition across Canada, excluding housing costs and ancillary fees.
Source: Statistics Canada 2023
Careers
There are many career opportunities within the aviation industry, which can be broadly split into three categories: aviation support activities (such as safety inspectors, flight attendants, and more); aviation manufacturing (aerospace engineers and aeronautical engineers); and air transport (pilots).
There is currently a large demand for aviation industry workers in Canada: the number of commercial pilot licences issued in Canada fell by more than 80 percent from 2019 to 2023. The Canadian Job Bank anticipates a strong risk of shortages of air pilot workers through 2033, meaning there will be lots of job opportunities for aspiring aviation professionals.
Below are just some of the possible aviation career paths:
Airport Security Officer – $33,000 – $46,000
With great attention to detail and knowledge of security protocols, airport security officers use equipment to screen luggage and passengers to ensure no harmful items enter the airport, while staying vigilant for any suspicious behaviour.
Airport Loadmaster – $34,000 – $62,000
Requiring strong organizational skills and physical fitness, airport loadmasters work to secure items onto an aircraft; for commercial airlines, loadmasters handle passenger luggage, and for cargo service airports, manage the loading and off-loading of cargo.
Flight Attendant – $40,000 – $56,000
With excellent customer service, communication and ability to remain calm under stress, flight attendants work on commercial airlines to support passengers’ comfort and safety.
Flight Operations Coordinator – $42,000 – $68,000
A flight operations coordinator or flight plan coordinator manages logistics around flight schedules and the flow of traffic on the airport tarmac. This administrative role requires problem-solving skills and a keen attention to detail.
Airport Operations Specialist – $42,000 – $68,000
Working in airports, airport operations specialists run the daily functions of an airport, from maintenance of the facility to logistics coordination to security, ensuring compliance with airport regulations.
Aviation Safety Inspector – $54,000 – $98,000
With excellent attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills, airline safety inspectors play a critical role in ensuring aviation regulations are met, maintaining aircraft safety – from commercial to private planes – through scheduled examinations and maintenance records.
Flight Instructor – $58,000 – $100,000
Requiring in-depth knowledge of aviation and teaching skills, flight instructors work with students to teach them how to fly aircraft, covering everything from aviation theory to flight skills.
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer – $60,000 – $120,000
With a high degree of technical engineering knowledge, these aviation professionals are responsible for the safety and reliability of aircrafts; following safety protocols, they inspect, repair and maintain equipment.
Pilot – $65,000 to $125,000
Flying an aircraft, pilots safely transport people or cargo from one point to another; they may work for commercial airlines, private individuals or companies, or the military. With a high degree of flight expertise, quick problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure, pilots operate and control the aircraft, communicate with passengers, cabin crew and air traffic control, and respond to unexpected events should they occur.
Air Traffic Controller – $80,000 – $133,000
A high-pressure job requiring quick decision-making, an air traffic controller guides pilots near the airspace of an airport, ensuring the safety of the aircraft and its passengers by avoiding collision. Using radar scanning technology, air traffic controllers track aircraft, and are the main point of contact between pilots and airports.
Aerospace Engineer – $80,000 – $120,000
These aviation industry experts leverage their maths, physics and design backgrounds to design and test aircraft, ensuring the aircraft functions well and can fulfill its duty — whether that is a commercial aircraft, spacecraft, sattleines, drones, or more.
Air Ambulance Pilot or EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Helicopter Pilot – $84,000 to $146,000
Air ambulance pilots are responsible for safely flying patients, along with a medical team, from the scene of their injury to a hospital; sometimes, they may operate in remote areas where it would take too long to get the patient to a hospital through ground transport. While medical training isn’t required to be an EMS helicopter pilot, the role does require advanced flight experience, with employers sometimes requiring between 1,000 to 2,000 flight hours.
Salaries
Here is a closer look at salary ranges based on job type and seniority:
| Role | Average Salary in Canada |
|---|---|
| Airport Security Officer | $37,138 |
| Airport Loadmaster | $46,234 |
| Flight Attendant | $53,625 |
| Flight Operations Coordinator | $57,335 |
| Airport Operations Specialist | $57,335 |
| Aviation Safety Inspector | $66,412 |
| Aircraft Maintenance Engineer | $73,229 |
| Flight Instructor | $85,178 |
| Pilot | $87,770 |
| Air Traffic Controller | $103,204 |
| Aerospace Engineer | $107,647 |
| Air Ambulance Pilot or EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Helicopter Pilot | $110,897 |