Government of Canada introduces changes to pilot licensing

The Honourable Lisa Raitt today announced amendments to the Canadian Aviation Regulations which will set the groundwork for the introduction of the Multi-crew Pilot Licence (MPL), extend the validity period of medical certificates associated with certain pilot licences and modify the requirements regarding credits of co-pilot flight time.

Industry groups, including training organizations, pilot associations, unions and operator associations, have widely supported these regulatory amendments, which bring Canada in line with international standards.

The amendments were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I in February 2013, followed by a 30 day public consultation period. The final regulations were published in Canada Gazette II today and come into force 60 days from today.

Quick Facts

The regulatory amendments introducing the MPL are the first step toward establishing the MPL in Canada. The next step is updating certification standards for approved training organizations (ATO) intending to deliver MPL training.

MPL training is an innovative and structured competency-based program, specifically designed to develop the skills and knowledge required to become an airline co-pilot.

Other international civil aviation authorities, such as the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, allow MPL training.

Certain pilot medical certificates will have a longer validity period in accordance with recent changes to international standards.

All experience gained as a co-pilot can now be put towards other pilot licences, making it easier for pilots to progress professionally.