Conestoga’s New Commercial Flight Operations Program Lifts Off in Milton

The first class of Conestoga’s new Commercial Flight Operations program are already practicing their aviation skills in the cockpit and using the in-class flight simulators.

The first class of Conestoga College’s new Commercial Flight Operations program are already practicing their aviation skills in the cockpit and using the in-class flight simulators.

The two-year program at the Milton - Parkhill Drive campus in partnership with Spectrum Airways out of a Burlington airport combines theory provided by Conestoga and practical training from Spectrum for careers in the aviation industry as pilots, flying instructors and dispatchers.

“They learn everything they need to be successful in an entry-level pilot position upon graduation,” said Joni Jean, chair of the School of Engineering & Technology and School of Trades & Apprenticeship.

Flight simulators offer lots of opportunities for students to practice

Demand is high for the program — the only two-year course offered in Ontario — and long-term pilot employment prospects are excellent with many carriers experiencing a shortage and the projected growth of the aviation industry. Students have the option to concurrently complete flight training to qualify for a Canadian commercial pilot licence.

Simulators are located right in the classroom, enabling students to learn the theory and then practice immediately. At first, flight simulations begin with the virtual aircraft already in the air before the students will start practising takeoffs and landings. “They practice and get comfortable with that and then it increases in complexity,” said Riley White, assistant chief flight instructor at Spectrum and part-time faculty.

Students can also practice outside class hours on the simulators, which have all the controls they’ll need to master in the cockpit. “They’re right on par with what would be in a plane,” White said.

Flight school planes have dual controls, allowing students to become comfortable with flying knowing there is a pilot alongside them to offer guidance and take over if needed. The Burlington airport where students train is a short drive from the Parkhill campus.

Students receive comprehensive education in all related fields

Classes are comprehensive, covering aviation as well as all the related fields including physics, math, human factors, geography and international law. Students also learn to work together, recognizing that pilots will be in the small space of a cockpit for an extended period. “We’re emphasizing that teamwork,” Jean said.

White is looking forward to being alongside the students as they learn about the exciting world of aviation, and Spectrum appreciates the new partnership with Conestoga. “Spectrum Airways is thrilled to partner with Conestoga for the Commercial Flight Operations diploma, featuring our Advanced Commercial Pilot Licence (ACPL) training program. With both companies having a long-standing presence in our respective industries, we are excited to collaborate in training the next generation of pilots and advancing aviation excellence in Canada.”

Conestoga’s Commercial Flight Operations program prepares students for a career as a professional pilot. The current unprecedented demand and projected growth in the aviation industry offers numerous opportunities to excel post-graduation. The two-year program allows quick entry into the industry with the necessary skills to be successful.

Students have the option to concurrently complete flight training, qualifying them to apply for Canadian Commercial Pilot Licence endorsed with a multi-engine instrument rating. Those who choose to work as a pilot post-graduation will need to complete flight training with partner Spectrum Airways, which will grant the Transport Canada licences upon completion and required examination.