Pilot

Overview
As a member of the military, Pilots fly a range of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) aircraft in a variety of roles:
Search and Rescue, Fighter, Transport, Tactical Helicopter, or Maritime Patrol.

The primary responsibilities of a Pilot are to plan, communicate, coordinate and execute tactical missions in support of civil authority or military objectives, such as humanitarian and disaster relief and air intercept operations. They work with sophisticated technology for precision tactical navigation systems, advanced communication systems, sensor systems, counter‑measure systems and weapon delivery systems.

Aircrew Selection Centre
The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) requires all Pilots, Aerospace Controllers and Air Combat Systems Officers to attend and successfully complete the Aircrew Selection Centre located in Trenton, Ontario. Candidates are tested over a 2‑day period with computer‑based scenarios designed to validate the skills and aptitudes required by the RCAF. Success at Aircrew Selection is a necessary step to continue to be processed for these occupations.

Watch this video to learn more.

Work environment
Pilots work in a variety of areas ranging from the northernmost parts of Canada to duties supporting the Royal Canadian Navy. Search and Rescue Pilots are deployed anywhere in Canada to rescue people in distress and emergency situations. Fighter Pilots protect Canadians and defend our interests abroad. Transport Pilots deliver humanitarian aid to people around the world. Tactical Helicopter Pilots support aid distribution and peace‑keeping missions.

Maritime Patrol Pilots protect Canadian coasts.

If you choose a career in the Regular Force, upon completion of all required training you will be assigned to your first base. While there is some flexibility with regards to postings (relocations), accommodations can’t always be made, and therefore you can likely expect to move at some point in your career. If you decide to join the Primary Reserve Force, you will do so through a specific Reserve unit.

Your Reserve unit will be your workplace on a part‑time basis, and you will not be obligated to relocate.

As part of the Primary Reserve Force, you typically work one night per week and some weekends as a minimum with possibilities of full‑time employment.

Entry plans

Direct Entry Options

Paid Education Options

Applicants who already have a university degree will be evaluated to determine if their academic program matches CAF criteria. Those eligible may be placed directly into the required on‑the‑job training program following basic training. Basic training and military officer qualification training are required before assignment.

Corrective Surgery for Vision
Applicants who wear glasses, contacts, or have had certain types of laser refractive surgery to improve vision may apply for the Pilot occupation. Pilots have more stringent visual requirements and must pass additional ophthalmology screening. Radial keratotomy or corneal reshaping procedures are not approved for pilots.

Regular Officer Training Plan
Because CAF officers must obtain a university degree, the CAF will pay successful recruits to complete a bachelor degree program in the Royal Military College System. Recruits receive full‑time salary including medical and dental care, and vacation time with full pay in exchange for working in the CAF for a period of time. Typically, candidates enter the Canadian Military College System as an Officer Cadet where they study subjects relevant to both their military and academic career.

In rare instances, based on CAF needs, candidates may be approved to attend another Canadian university. Decisions are made on a case‑by‑case basis. If you are applying for this program, you must apply to the CAF and it is recommended to apply to other Canadian universities of your choice if not accepted for the Regular Officer Training Program.

Training
After enrollment, you attend basic officer training at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint‑Jean‑sur‑Richelieu, Quebec for 12 weeks. Topics covered include general military knowledge, leadership principles, CAF regulations and customs, basic…