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All you need to know about the program goals, and why this program is right for you.
Selecting the ideal flight training program is much like choosing the perfect aircraft for an expedition—it's about understanding the nuanced features, capabilities, and the specific trajectory you aim to follow in your aviation career. The flight training arenas of the United States and Canada each present unique benefits, meticulously designed to cater to varying career goals. Let's delve into how each country's offerings might align with your aspirations in the skies.
The journey to realizing one's aviation career objectives is highly individualized. Engaging in conversation with a flight training consultant is pivotal in tailoring a program that not only satisfies immediate educational needs but also strategically sets the stage for future endeavors. Critical to this discussion is an understanding of the candidate's preferred airline or the region they aim to build their career in. This insight aids in developing a flight training pathway that is both relevant and forward-thinking.
For aspirants from the developing nations of Southeast Asia—such as India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Vietnam—the prospect of flying with prestigious Gulf carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways holds considerable allure. These carriers are celebrated for their lucrative salaries, appealing pilot lifestyles, extensive networks, modern long-range fleets, and the chance to thrive in vibrant, multicultural environments. However, potential drawbacks include less clear career progression, lower job security due to the absence of pilot unions, and certain discriminatory hiring practices.
In contrast, candidates may prefer to establish their aviation careers in specific regions, such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, or North America. Opting for North America as a career base offers distinct advantages over the Gulf region, including clearer career progression paths, high job security supported by robust pilot unions, and inclusive hiring practices that prohibit discrimination. Notably, North American airlines do not mandate jet experience, requiring only a complete ATPL with 1500 hours of flight time on any mix of piston or turbine aircraft.
After thorough discussions with a qualified Aerocadet consultant, candidates are presented with tailored program options. There are two principal types of fully integrated programs that include internships and guaranteed employment assistance upon training completion. The first, known as FPAP-US (or FPAP-IND-US for Indian students), is conducted in the United States. The second, named FPAP-C (or FPAP-IND for Indian students), takes place in Canada. Each program is designed with the candidate's ultimate career destination in mind, offering a structured path towards achieving their aviation dreams.
Through informed decision-making and strategic planning, candidates can embark on a flight training journey that not only meets their current educational needs but also aligns with their long-term career aspirations. Whether drawn to the opportunities in the United States or Canada, each path offers a unique set of advantages ready to be navigated by the aspiring pilot.
Read the full artciles about the US-Canada differences on our Blog here >>>
Programs allow students to achieve full, unrestricted ICAO Airline Transport Pilot License pilot certification, with over 2500+ hours of total aeronautical experience and unrestricted amount of passenger jet experience.
These licenses and flight experience will make you fully airline-employmen-ready, and thus eligible for direct entry First Officer employment with the leading airlines in US Canada, Middle East, Asia and most World regions.
Let's review the main program differences in the tabular format, and we will discuss each difference point separately.
| Program details | USA | Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Training duration | 12-18 months | 18-24 months |
| Online visa application without interview | ||
| ICAO ATP License | ||
| ICAO Instructor License | ||
| Earn money while training | ||
| Instructor internship in school | ||
| Instructor internship nationwide | ||
| Internship work-hour limit (weekly) | 20 hours | 30+ hours |
| Airline Pilot internship opportunity | ||
| Permanent residency opportunity | ||
| Permanent employment international | ||
| Estimated cost of training | $85-90k USD | $85-90k USD |
| Salary during CFI internship | apprx $1,600 USD | apprx $2,200 USD |
Duration of training in the United States is shorter than in Canada due to weather and curriculum differences. The weather in Florida is a lot warmer than in Canada, which allows training around the clock, almost every days, except for 15-30 day breaks for hurricanes.
In contrast, Canada has much colder weather with frequent snow-storms during winter period. This factor extends the total training period by, approximately, 6-8 months.
United States consulate requires the applicants to personally attend the F-1 student visa interview. In contrast, Canada consulate does not require personal attendance. Hence, Canada visa can be processed by filing some forms Online, and via mail.
United States F-1 visa terms do not allow students to take any type of employment during the training phase of the program. Only after the program is completed (12-14 months) can the students start working, and only as aviation interns, where their employment hours are limited to 80 hours per week.
In contrast, Canada allows students to work part-time immediately after arrival in Canada. Students are allowed to work anywhere on or off-campus, in any part-time position, limited to 20 hours per week. Normally, this type of additional income allows students to earn enough money to pay for their accommodation and food, but not tuition. The minimum salary for international students working part-time jobs in Canada is $11.06 CAN ($8.40 USD) per hour. Providing that a student works 80 hours per month, he/she can expect to earn approximately $884.80 CAN ($672.00 USD). There is no income tax on earnings below $8500 CAN per year. Earnings above $8500 CAN are taxed at 15%.
After completion of the flight training phase, students in the US will start their internship program (CPT) with the college. Students will be limited to working only on-campus for the first 6 months of the internship, and then have freedom to work anywhere else in the US within the aviation industry (OPT) for additional 12 months.
In contrast, students in Canada will not be limited to working at the academy where they have studied. They will be free to take pilot internship either as instructor or commercial pilot, anywhere in Canada for up to 24 months.
Students in the US will be able to apply for the airline pilot internship after extending their FPAP-US program by two additional years to obtain the AAS (associate of aeronautical science) degree. This extension will require students to study for 6 more months, and then be released for airline internship for 18 additional months. In addition, students will be required for pay for the AAS degree program extension, wich will cost approximately $25,000 USD in tuition fees, and approximately $4500 USD in additional accmmodation fees. Permanent employment in the United States may be achieved by qualified candidates through EB-1 visa application.
In contrast, students in Canada will be able to get airline internship within the need to extend the program: they will be able to apply and qualify for permanent residency immediately after completion of 12 months of full-time internship, and be eligible for Canada airline internship. And since our FPAP-C program in Canada now has a PGWP allowaqnce of up to 24 months, the chances of successfull application for PR are very high. The Canadian Experience Class point-based system is discussed in detail on our blog here >>>
Students in the US, unless qualified under a special visa category, may not be eligible for permanent residency (known as "Green Card") after completion of airline internship, and may be required to leave the country for international airline employment placement by Aerocadet. (You can find more information about who qualifies for which US working visa and after how much experienece here >>>) In all cases, only highly experienced pilots who hold advanced academic degrees (Masters of Aviation Science, and up) and/or have logged significant flight time (5,000 hours and up), and have a US aviation company/charter/airline sponsorhsip, are able to qualify for a permanent employment permit in the United States.
In contrast, After completing 12-24 months of full-time study at a Canadian post-secondary institution, international students may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). If they meet the eligibility criteria, they can apply for permanent residence (PR) in Canada through various immigration programs. Here is a general overview of the PR application process and requirements in Canada after completing 12-24 months of internship on a PGWP (The Canadian Experience Class point-based system is discussed in detail on our blog here >>>)
Check eligibility: The first step is to check your eligibility for the different immigration programs. There are several programs you may be eligible for, including the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Meet language requirements: One of the main requirements for PR in Canada is to demonstrate proficiency in either English or French. You will need to take a language test and achieve a certain minimum score to be eligible for most immigration programs.
Meet work experience requirements: To be eligible for some immigration programs, you may need to have a certain amount of work experience in a skilled occupation. For example, the CEC requires at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada.
Complete medical and security checks: As part of the PR application process, you will need to undergo medical and security checks to ensure that you are admissible to Canada.
Submit an application: Once you have determined which immigration program you are eligible for and have met all the requirements, you can submit an application for PR. You will need to provide various documents, including language test results, work experience letters, educational credentials, and proof of funds.
Wait for a decision: After submitting your PR application, you will need to wait for a decision from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Processing times can vary depending on the program and the volume of applications received.
It's important to note that, although the PR application success rate is very high, when done correctly, the actual application process may be complex, and it's recommended to seek the assistance of an immigration lawyer or consultant to help guide you through the process. This is why we have secured the services of Canadian Immigration Services agency to assist our graduates with the PR application process.
The journey to amassing jet experience, a vital milestone for pilots aiming to fly with renowned Gulf Airlines like Emirates or Qatar Airways, is markedly distinct in the United States compared to Canada. This difference stems primarily from the unique immigration policies of each country and their implications for career progression.
In Canada, the pathway to permanent residency is notably more straightforward, providing a significant edge for pilots pursuing careers with international airlines, particularly in the Gulf region. Achieving permanent residency allows pilots to seek employment with any Canadian airline, granting them the ability to work without time restrictions and accumulate the crucial passenger jet flight time needed for direct entry roles as first officers with Gulf carriers. These carriers have strict criteria, often selecting pilots with extensive jet experience.
Canada's immigration system, especially with initiatives like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and the Express Entry system, offers a seamless transition from aviation education to permanent residency. This not only aids in gaining the required flight hours on advanced aircraft but also in adapting to a varied aviation sector, enhancing both skills and knowledge.
For aspiring pilots looking towards the Gulf Airlines, beginning their career journey in Canada can provide a strategic edge. The blend of superior flight training, early work experience opportunities, and a supportive immigration regime fosters an ideal setting to achieve their professional aspirations. With the necessary experience and jet time acquired in Canada, these pilots emerge as strong contenders for roles within Emirates, Qatar Airways, and similar airlines, ready to meet the high standards and operational demands of these prestigious carriers.
Conversely, the United States, despite its expansive aviation sector and abundant flight training and employment opportunities, offers a more complex route to permanent residency for pilots trained abroad. This complexity may restrict their capacity to secure the long-term positions needed to develop the jet flight time coveted by Gulf carriers. Therefore, for individuals specifically eyeing careers with these airlines, the Canadian pathway presents a notable advantage. It underscores the value of considering the broader career and immigration landscape when choosing a flight training program, ensuring alignment with long-term professional goals.
Read the full artciles about the US-Canada differences on our Blog here >>>
Still confused? Contact one of our consultants for explanation
If you need a personal consultation regarding the flight training program, please email one of our highly qualified consultants with a full list of your questions, and receive a structured response within 24 hours.
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Yes, you can. We do not require you to high grades, just a full certificate of secondary education.
Yes, you do.
Flight instructor internship is offered on discretionary basis by the FTP: the students will be able to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) to continue working in Canada after the completion of training. The flight academy will be the final authority in determining whether or not the applicant is a suitable candidate for the internship as a flight instructor. The main factors considered by the academy will be: his/her performance during the training phase, professionalism, safety orientation, level or English knowledge and determination.
Airline pilot internship it is subject to approval by the Canadian Government: the foreign students who have studied at an accredited post-secondary school on a full-time basis, in a program of at least 2 years, may qualify to apply for a Permanent Canadian Residency status under the CAC program and, if approved, will be able to apply for an Airline Pilot Employment in any Canadian airline. To qualify, the foreign student must have completed the program on a Canadian campus at a Canadian FTP and achieved the educational and pilot licensing objectives required by the program. In addition, the foreign student must have worked for at least 12 months in a full-time, skilled position (see stage 4). The work experience must have been obtained after graduating from the program of study. (More details about this program can be located here >>>)
Yes, it is conditionally guaranteed: in case of unsuccessful application for the Canadian Experience Class (permanent residency), the students will be offered an internship as international ferry pilots with our direct partner, Global Air Holdings, operating out of Hong Kong SAR.
Yes, it is conditionally guaranteed: upon completion of flight training and internship phases,our company will offer the internship graduates a fully guaranteed and comprehensive airline employment placement assistance support for those who aspire to work in the Middle East, S.E. Asia, Central America and Europe, rather than Canada..
Yes, you can! If you have a current and valid ICAO PPL, you can get a discount of $10,200 USD from either the FPAP-1 program or a full AAS degree program.
Yes, shortly after arriving in Canada students can apply for work off- and on-campus. Students are not allowed to work only 20 hours per week and only in entry-level, basic-pay jobs.
No, You can only work in Canada and many other countries that hire international ex-patriat pilots, but U.S. is not one of them. All U.S. pilots must have a current Green Card or U.S. passport.
You can review the full Frequently Asked Questions section here >>>