Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot (Rotary-Wing) at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot (Rotary-Wing) program at BCIT is a comprehensive training course designed for aspiring commercial rotary-wing pilots. This Diploma program is delivered in a full-time format and spans a total of 57 weeks. The program is structured to meet the training standards set by both Transport Canada and the aviation industry, ensuring that students receive the highest quality of education and practical experience. The program is a collaboration between BCIT, Pacific Flying Club, and Chinook Helicopters, leveraging their extensive expertise in aviation training. Students will gain a robust set of skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the aviation sector.

Program Structure

The Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot (Rotary-Wing) program is structured over three terms, with a total duration of 57 weeks. Here are some key details about the program structure:

Program Length: 57 weeks
Credits: 113.5
Delivery Format: Blended (partly on-campus and partly online)
Location: BCIT Aerospace Technology Campus, Pacific Flying Club, and Chinook Helicopters
Scheduled Breaks: Breaks are included to accommodate potential weather-related flight training interruptions.

Students will complete flight training necessary to qualify for a fixed-wing Private Pilot Licence (PPL) in the first two terms, followed by rotary-wing Commercial Pilot Licence training. The program is designed to be one of the fastest pathways in Canada to achieve a commercial rotary-wing pilot licence while also earning a post-secondary diploma.

Featured Experiences

Integrated Training: The program combines both fixed and rotary-wing flight training with industry-focused academic training.
Hands-On Experience: Students will engage in practical flight training at renowned facilities, including Pacific Flying Club and Chinook Helicopters.
Industry Connections: The program is closely tied to various aviation industry organizations, providing students with networking opportunities.
Accredited Institutions: Both Pacific Flying Club and Chinook Helicopters are accredited by the Private Career Training Institutions Agency of British Columbia (PCTIA).
Competency-Based Training: The flight training portions are competency-based, ensuring that students meet the required standards for licensing.

Career Options

Graduates of the Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot (Rotary-Wing) program can pursue various career opportunities in the aviation industry. Here are some potential job roles:

Commercial Helicopter Pilot: Operate helicopters for various purposes, including transportation, tourism, and emergency services.
Flight Instructor: Teach aspiring pilots the skills and knowledge necessary to obtain their pilot licenses.
Aerial Survey Pilot: Conduct aerial surveys for mapping, environmental studies, and resource management.
Search and Rescue Pilot: Participate in search and rescue missions, providing critical support in emergency situations.
Corporate Pilot: Fly corporate executives and clients to various destinations, ensuring safety and comfort during travel.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Academic Requirements for the Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot (Rotary-Wing) Diploma program are as follows:

Step 1: Meet the following entrance requirements

English language proficiency: one of the following:
- Category 2 – English Studies 12 (67%) or equivalent or
- BCIT English Trades Entry Assessment
Math: one of the following:
- Pre-Calculus 11 (50%) or
- Foundations of Math 11 (50%) or
- Workplace Math 11 (60%) or
- Other acceptable BC and Yukon courses or
- BCIT Math Trades Entry Assessment
BCIT Abstract Reasoning Trades Entry Assessment
BCIT Mechanical Reasoning Trades Entry Assessment
Transport Canada Category One Aviation Medical
Complete the following form for submission with your online application:
- Mandatory Applicant Questionnaire: This form will be used with other entrance requirements in the competitive selection for the program.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Step 2: Requirements for selected applicants

All complete applications will be reviewed by the program and shortlisted applicants will be required to complete the following:

Multiple Mini Interview Process (MMI)

During this process, applicants will be assessed for their suitability for this profession. Final selection into the program will be based on the results of the MMI assessment.

International applicants

This program is available to international applicants.

Study permit: A valid BCIT study permit is required prior to starting the program.

For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Airline and Flight Operations Commercial Pilot (Rotary-Wing) Diploma program, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. The following English Language Proficiency assessments are accepted:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Overall score 6.5, no band less than 5.5
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test - 70 overall band score with no component below 60
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - Overall score 60, no skill score less than 60
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) - Overall score 86, no section score less than 20
Duolingo English Test - 120 overall, no integrated subscore less than 95
Cambridge Assessment English - BCIT ISEP Online test (Cambridge Linguaskill) - B2 First or C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with minimum overall score of 176

It is important to note that test results must be dated no more than two years before the start date of the program you’re applying to. Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!