How To Get Your Ultralight Permit

If you’ve ever dreamt of taking to the skies as a pilot above the stunning Canadian landscape, then you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to obtain an advanced ultralight permit in Canada.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to become a pilot or an experienced aviator aiming to fly ultralight aircraft, this article is your one-stop resource to navigate the process successfully.

What is an Advanced Ultralight Permit?

To kickstart our journey, let’s understand what an advanced ultralight permit entails. An advanced ultralight permit, issued by Transport Canada, allows individuals to pilot ultralight aircraft in Canada. These aircraft are lightweight, and are designed for recreational use and training, providing a unique and exhilarating way to explore the country from above.

Requirements for an Ultralight Pilot Permit

Before you can spread your wings and fly, you must meet several requirements: 

Age and Health

To obtain an advanced ultralight permit, you need to be at least 16 years old and be in good health. At a minimum, you will need to complete a Category 4 Medical Certificate valid for a Pilot Permit – Ultra-light Aeroplane.

The only requirement needed to obtain this level of medical certification is a form of self-declaration similar to that of a driver’s license. To that end, a screening medical questionnaire was created and the need to see a Civil Aviation Medical Examiner (CAME) was eliminated.

However, you need to have your family physician countersign the questionnaire if you want to carry a passenger on your aircraft. That’s right: no physical examination, unless of course you have or have had one of the conditions that we are concerned about, in which case you may need to see a CAME.

Training and Education

Comprehensive flight training is a crucial step in the process. Transport Canada mandates the completion of a Transport Canada-approved training program to ensure that you acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to operate an ultralight aircraft. 

The Training Process

Your journey to becoming an ultralight pilot is paved with training and education:

Flight Training

You will need to complete a minimum of 10 hours of flight time, with a minimum of 5 hours dual flight time, and 2 hours of solo flight time.

Written and Practical Exams

After completing your flight training, you’ll be required to Achieve a  minimum 60% on Transport Canada’s written examination Pilot Permit Ultra-light Aeroplane (ULTRA)

Your Application

Once you have met the training and exam requirements, you can submit your application for an advanced ultralight permit to Transport Canada. Make sure to have all the necessary documentation ready, including proof of training and exam results.

Passenger Carrying Rating

• Obtain a minimum of 25 hours of total flight time
• 15 hours dual minimum
• 2 hours cross-country
• 5 hours solo minimum
• Successfully complete a flight test

Certified Flight Instructor Ultralight

You may decide to turn your passion for aviation into a career. To do this you’ll need to earn a certified instructor rating for ultralight. Below are the requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Hold a Category 3 Medical Certificate valid for a Pilot Permit – Ultra-light Aeroplane
• Completed a minimum of 10 hours in instructional techniques
• Achieve 80% in the written examination Flight Instructor Rating Instructional Techniques (FITEN)
• Complete ground school training, including normal and emergency procedures, on ultra-light aeroplanes
• Obtain a minimum of 50 hours of flight time, with 5 hours dual minimum, 5 hours dual flight time on instructional techniques, and 25 hours solo flight time minimum
• Successfully complete a flight test

Advanced Ultralight Permit in Canada – A Privilege

Receiving your advanced ultra-light aeroplane permit in Canada is a privilege, and with it comes great responsibility. This permit allows you to operate advanced ultralight aircraft, which include both amateur-built and certified aircraft. The permit’s definition allows for the inclusion of advanced ultralight aircraft within the ultralight category, rather than existing categories.

Explore the Canadian Skies

With your advanced ultralight permit, you can explore Canada’s diverse landscapes from the air. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the picturesque coastlines and vast prairies, the possibilities are endless. Fly with confidence, knowing that you’ve undergone comprehensive training and met all the requirements set by Transport Canada.

Aerial Freedom

Upon successful application review, Transport Canada will issue your advanced ultralight permit. You are now ready to take to the skies, exploring the magnificent Canadian landscapes from the cockpit of your ultralight aircraft.

Key Takeaways

• To obtain an advanced ultralight permit in Canada, you must meet age and health requirements, undergo comprehensive flight training, and pass written and practical exams.

• Flight training covers flight maneuvers, navigation, and emergency procedures, ensuring you acquire the necessary skills to operate an ultralight aircraft safely.

• Your advanced ultralight permit unlocks the skies and allows you to explore Canada’s breathtaking landscapes from a unique perspective.

• With this permit, you can operate, train others, and enjoy the freedom of flying in Canada’s stunning scenery responsibly.

So, spread your wings, embark on your aerial adventure, and make the most of your advanced ultralight permit in Canada. The sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning of your journey.