Earning Money as a Pilot with PPL and CPL in Canada

As a pilot, your potential for earning money varies based on your license and the country in which you operate. In some regions, aerial photography is a lucrative option. However, in Canada, the options for earning money as a pilot are limited. This article provides a detailed guide on what you can and cannot do with a PPL Private Pilot License and a CPL Commercial Pilot License.

Understanding PPL and CPL

A Private Pilot License (PPL) is designed for personal use. It prohibits any commercial activities, including flights paid for by another party. Flying for pay without a CPL can lead to significant legal issues. A CPL, on the other hand, allows you to use your license for commercial purposes.

What PPL Holders Can Do in Canada

In Canada, a PPL holder can engage in two commercial activities while flying an aircraft: banner towing and glider towing. Participation in these activities is subject to specific ratings and access to an appropriately equipped airplane.

What CPL Holders Can Do in Canada

A CPL holder in Canada has more opportunities for earning money. They can:

Act as a pilot for various services without being associated with an air operator. Transport airplanes for others. Deliver cargo using aircraft. Hire themselves out to fly other people's airplanes. Teach flying if they have an instructor rating. Perform agricultural flying with the appropriate rating. Carry out aerial photography. However, in most cases, this can be done using rental aircraft, but with different rental rates reflecting the differing insurance needs.

While many of these activities can be pursued with the help of rental aircraft, the cost of hiring versus owning a plane varies significantly. Additionally, owning an airplane that meets operational standards can be expensive, particularly with the initial setup costs.

Additional Opportunities

For those interested in flying tours or scheduled services, the process becomes more complex. It requires either:

Access to a plane and obtaining an air operator certificate, which is relatively expensive. Establishing a relationship with an entity that already has an air operator certificate. This can be through employment or other business deals, but it often involves costs associated with maintaining the operator certificate.

The entity must have operational control of the airplane, which might necessitate leasing it from the pilot. This setup not only ensures legal compliance but also keeps the airplane engaged in various flying activities. Regular maintenance of an airplane under operator certification standards is also more expensive, making thorough research essential before embarking on any such venture.

If you are looking to rent out an aircraft for commercial purposes, you should consider the operational and insurance requirements and fees. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about what might be the best path for your career as a pilot in Canada.

Whether you are looking to pursue a career in aviation or simply want to earn extra income as a pilot, familiarizing yourself with the specific rules and requirements in Canada can help you navigate the legal and financial aspects of commercial flying. Remember, the key is to plan your actions carefully and ensure that you comply with all relevant aviation regulations.