Commercial Flight Operations

Select start date and campus

Menu
Close

Applying as a Canadian applicant

Domestic students should apply online or by phone at 1-888-892-2228.

Apply now: Canadian applicant
Close

Campus tours

Campus tours are one of the best ways to experience Conestoga. During this time, we are offering online guided tours to show you all Conestoga has to offer.

Book your tour

Virtual tours

If you can't make an on-campus tour or attend one of our events, the virtual tour is a great way to visit us.

View our Virtual tour

Courses - September 2025

Level 1

Course details

Introduction to Aviation
AVIA1010

Description:

This course will introduce a range of sectors within both the domestic and global aviation industries. Students will explore the history of aviation, civil aviation, international air law, airports and security, general aviation, the environment, accidents and safety, and Remotely Piloted Aircraft. Students will gain an understanding of the industry through the lens of multiple professional disciplines, such as airport managers, pilots, maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers and flight dispatchers.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Private Pilot Groundschool
AVIA1030

Description:

This course is an introduction to the foundation of professional pilot studies. Students will gain a fundamental understanding of theory of flight, aircraft performance, systems and instrumentation, meteorology, navigation, and flight planning procedures. Through interpretation and application of the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) students explore Canadian airspace structure, radio communications, personnel and licensing standards, air traffic rules and medical factors. Students will be prepared to write the Transport Canada PPAER Private Pilot - Aeroplane written exam.

  • Hours: 84
  • Credits: 6
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Private Pilot Maneuvers
AVIA1040

Description:

In preparation for the initial phase of flight training, this course will further develop students theoretical and practical knowledge to advance through flight training to their first solo flight. Through instruction and simulation, students will understand how to prepare the aircraft for flight, adhere to checklists, perform system checks and taxi. They will then advance to learning the theory behind basic air work maneuvers, take-offs, circuits, and landings, and how to perform them safely.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

College Reading & Writing Skills
COMM1085

Description: This course introduces students to the reading, writing, and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse a variety of texts and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising to produce writing that meets the expectations of selected audiences and purposes. The course prepares students for college-level writing tasks, research, and documentation by asking them to produce clear, informed, and purposeful documents relevant to both academic and professional contexts.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Conestoga 101
CON0101

Description: This self-directed course focuses on introducing new students to the supports, services, and opportunities available at Conestoga College. By the end of this course, students will understand the academic expectations of the Conestoga learning environment, as well as the supports available to ensure their academic success. Students will also be able to identify on-campus services that support their health and wellness, and explore ways to get actively involved in the Conestoga community through co-curricular learning opportunities.
  • Hours: 1
  • Credits: 0
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Algebra
MATH1380

Description: This course is designed to provide the student with a mathematical basis for dealing with physical, biological, economic, business and social relationships described in terms of algebraic equations; with a review of key mathematical concepts from high school. Additional topics include linear and quadratic equations, graphical representation of a variety of functions, matrices and determinants.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Physics for Aviation
PHYS1180

Description: This course will provide the student with a historical background in the field of physics, in addition to the standard measurements and calculations involved in the basic principles of physics. The student will develop structured problem solving skills in the study of kinematics, and dynamics; and laboratory exercises will also provide a practical application of theories.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 2

Course details

Applied Aircraft Maintenance
AVIA1200

Description:

Develop a practical understanding of basic aircraft systems, approved procedures and operating principles. Through hands on learning experience with aircraft components and systems, students will engage in elementary maintenance training, aircraft handling, and basic servicing. Students will also learn about airworthiness documentation, dispatch procedures, weight and balance, and practice effective record keeping procedures, such as journey log entries.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Commercial Pilot Groundschool I
AVIA1210

Description:

Students will advance their professional pilot training to the commercial level by building upon the foundational knowledge learned in Private Pilot Groundschool. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of meteorology through the analysis and interpretation of aviation forecasts, weather reports, and charts. Further practice in flight planning and navigation will be explored. Students will develop a greater understanding of theory of flight and flight operations.

  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites: AVIA1030
  • CoRequisites:

Private Pilot - Navigation and Instrument Training
AVIA1220

Description:

The skills learned in Private Pilot Flight Maneuvers will be further advanced to prepare students for the Transport Canada Private Pilot flight test. Practical flight planning exercises, including preparing maps, weather briefings, performance calculations, completing navigation logs, filing flight plans, and diversion planning will be studied.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: AVIA1040
  • CoRequisites:

Human Factors in Aviation
AVIA2011

Description: This course will enable students to gain an understanding and apply principles of human factors in the aviation industry with a particular focus on physiology and cognition and how these concepts impact aviation safety. This course is divided into three main sections: (1) Physiology with a focus on understanding key elements of the human body as it pertains to aviation flight physiology; (2) Human Cognition as it pertains to information perception, decision-making, and bias to develop a holistic understanding of situational awareness; (3) System Safety Models including Crew Resource Management, Threat and Error Management, Safety Management Systems, and Safety Culture. Success in these areas will allow the student to be a safety-focused commercial pilot that would act as a positive, confident leader in a flight deck or flight operations department.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Exponents And Trigonometry
MATH1390

Description: This course is a continuation of algebra, where the examination of functions is further developed through the study of logarithmic and exponential functions. The trigonometric functions are introduced and are expanded to include trigonometric identities, graphs, equations, and applications. In addition, polar coordinates and vectors are examined.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 3

Course details

Introduction to the Electronic Flight Bag (EFB)
AVIA2050

Description:

Integrating an Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) to efficiently prepare for commercial cross-country flights will be introduced. Students will learn to use technology to complete the planning for their cross-country routes and learn how to safely apply aviation applications on the EFB. Students will also advance their practical understanding of radio navigation aids and global navigation satellite systems (GNSS).

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Commercial Pilot Groundschool II
AVIA2060

Description:

Commercial Pilot Groundschool II further builds upon Commercial Pilot Groundschool, by preparing students to complete the Transport Canada CPAER Commercial Pilot – Aeroplane written exam. Students will learn to interpret the Commercial Canadian Aviation Regulations, including Air Taxi flight operations. Students will also examine human factors and pilot decision making skills. Further practice in meteorology, airframes, engines and systems, flight instruments, flight operations, and navigation will be explored.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: AVIA1210
  • CoRequisites:

Technical Communications
COMM1130

Description:

In this course, students will learn professional writing and presentation skills required for effective technical communication in the workplace. They will learn to write technical documents by applying standard technical writing style and analyzing their forms and uses for target audiences, purposes, and contexts. They will also learn to write formal technical proposals or reports using research and documentation skills.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: COMM1085
  • CoRequisites:

Level 4

Course details

Impact of Aviation on Canadian National Development
AVIA2040

Description:

In this course students will review the history of Canadian aviation and will learn about the impact of aviation on the development of Canada as a nation. Students will examine the early years of aviation, Canada's military participation in and contribution to Allied aviation efforts during the wars of the 20th Century, and the influence of aviation in the development of the Canadian north. In addition, the course will focus on the transition from trains and ships to airplanes as the preferred method of regional, transcontinental and international travel, and the effects of Canada's aviation industry on the country's economic development and Canada's international trade and influence.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Instrument Flight Rules Groundschool
AVIA2070

Description:

Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) will transition the students from flying in Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) to IFR, further preparing them for a career as a professional pilot. Students will explore licensing and training, and general operating and flight rules, including departure, enroute, holding and approach procedures. Meteorology, instrumentation, navigation and radio aids in relation to IFR flight will also be analyzed. This course will prepare fixed wing students to write the Transport Canada INRAT Instrument Rating - Aeroplane exam.

  • Hours: 84
  • Credits: 6
  • Pre-Requisites: AVIA2060
  • CoRequisites:

Commercial Pilot Training
AVIA2230

Description:

In preparation for the Transport Canada Commercial Pilot Flight Test, students will review in class the flight test requirements and maneuvers. In this course, students will gain an understanding of the theory behind night flying and its associated illusions. Analyzation of advanced aircraft performance charts and navigation systems will also be explored. Students will apply some of the commercial operational procedures such as the Transportation of Dangerous Goods.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: AVIA1220
  • CoRequisites:

Career Success
CDEV1830

Description:

This dynamic career course offers a comprehensive exploration of essential skills and strategies required for career success. Students will learn to navigate the labour market effectively, conducting research to identify employment opportunities and potential employers that align with their career goals. They will also attain skills in writing professional self marketing documents, tailored to specific job opportunities. With a focus on interview preparation, students will participate in a range of simulated scenarios, learning to respond confidently and competently to various interview questions, enhancing their employability and interview performance. By the end of the course, students will emerge equipped with the skills and strategies needed to thrive in today's competitive job market.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Introduction to Personal Finances
FIN1100

Description: This course will focus on providing students with the knowledge required to effectively understand and manage their personal financial situation. It will provide a foundation for students to develop personal financial goals and to avoid many common financial problems. Topics covered will include personal cash flow and budgeting, establishing and maintaining a good credit rating, the effective use of credit, understanding group benefits, RRSPs, TFSAs and pension plans. The course will also address various types of insurance coverage and investment products.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 5

Course details

Geography and International Law
AVIA2030

Description: Scientific knowledge of geography is crucial for pilots. Knowing how to read and interpret the map, understand coordinates and being able to do simple calculations on the fly — all covered by Geography — will ensure success of future aviators. This course will also explore the interrelationships between human populations, resources, and environmental changes/outcomes impacting society and various ecologies both today and into the future. Lastly, understanding the world of international law and policy regarding aviation and transportation will be relevant for emerging professionals to navigate complex global environments.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Multi-Engine Instrument Training
AVIA2260

Description:

Through two-crew simulations, students will develop their crew resource management (CRM) and threat and error management (TEM) skills while learning to operate a multi-engine aircraft simulator in a variety of instrument meteorological conditions. Emphasis will be placed on working as a team to analyze and solve problems, while gaining experience practicing instrument flight rules (IFR) procedures. Students will prepare for their Transport Canada Multi-Engine Rating and Multi-Engine Instrument Rating.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: AVIA2230
  • CoRequisites:

Multi-Crew Coordination
AVIA2270

Description:

Multi-Crew Coordination will provide students the theoretical understanding to flying larger aircraft in a two-crew member environment. Topics explored include air law and procedures, aircraft components and systems, meteorology, flight instruments and navigation, flight operations, theory of flight and human factors. Students will be prepared to write the Transport Canada IATRA Exam; Aeroplane Type Rating for Two Crew or Cruise Relief Pilot.

  • Hours: 84
  • Credits: 6
  • Pre-Requisites: AVIA2070
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options
Electives: Program Option
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

View Program Option Electives

Please note that all courses may not be offered in all semesters. Go to your student portal for full timetabling details under "My Courses".

Instructional Techniques
AVIA2240

Description:

Whether students choose to start their career as a Certified Flight Instructor or later enter a training role, such as a Company Training Pilot, Instructional Techniques will provide students with a thorough understanding of the principles of learning. Students will also gain practical experience developing engaging lesson plans and presenting preparatory ground instruction in a variety of formats to support both in-person and remote learning. Pre and post flight briefings integrating CRM and TEM will also be explored. This course helps prepare students to write the Transport Canada Instructor Rating AIRAF exam.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: AVIA2060
  • CoRequisites:

Flight Dispatch
AVIA2250

Description:

Preparation for an exciting occupation as a Flight Dispatcher will be delivered in this course. Students will focus on the foundational knowledge required to write the Transport Canada Flight Dispatcher's exams. Topics explored include meteorology, aviation regulations and air traffic procedures, aeroplane operations and general navigation, radio aids and flight planning.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Program outcomes

  1. Operate a multi-engine aircraft through all phases of simulated flight in a multi-crew commercial operation.
  2. Develop Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Threat and Error Management (TEM) strategies to effectively manage flight deck and operational situations.
  3. Evaluate the aviation flight deck environment to identify and respond to human factor issues related to physiological, psychological, and human-machine interfaces in order to conduct a safe flight.
  4. Conduct oneself professionally and ethically as expected of professional pilots while complying with industry standards and regulations.
  5. Solve problems and issues that arise in emergency and irregular situations to ensure successful flights.
  6. Communicate directions and ideas clearly and concisely while exhibiting interpersonal skills to ensure successful flight operations.
  7. Analyze the financial, operational, and administrative aspects of the aviation sector to explore means for economic growth and sustainability in the industry.
  8. Verify aviation-related conversions, calculations, and measurements related to aircraft design, performance, and general practices to ensure safe flight operations.
  9. Examine emerging technologies, local and global issues, and trends to advance career development.