If you’re a 250-hour pilot dreaming of flying in Canadian airspace, you’ve come to the right place. If you are a pilot with limited flight hours, it can prove to be even more daunting of a prospect to find your first pilot job in Canada. But no need to panic — this step-by-step guide takes you through all of the 250-hour pilot jobs in Canada, including how to get a 250-hour airline job or airline job with low-time pilot experience and what qualifications to become a pilot, to help you stand out in this competitive job market.
The Demand for 250-Hour Pilot Jobs in Canada
The expanse of Canada, along with the expanding aviation industry, have made the country a mecca for pilots, even those with less flight time. Many regional airlines, charter services and cargo operators are also aggressively recruiting pilots for entry-level jobs. Golden opportunity for a 250hr pilot to get career started.
This demand is especially acute for remote areas such as Northern Canada, where smaller aircraft, bush planes, etc. are literally the main means of transport, Operators like Jazz Aviation, Perimeter Aviation and Bearskin Airlines regularly hire low-time pilots for first officers, bush pilots, and flight instructor positions.
Top Airlines Hiring Pilots with 250 Hours in Canada
For companies open to hiring pilots with only 250 flight hours, here’s a list of the top employers.
Jazz Aviation
Jazz Aviation, an Air Canada subsidiary, is among Canada’s largest regional carriers. They tend to be a low-time friendly place to work (particularly in terms of first officer positions with their Dash 8 fleet).
Perimeter Aviation
Perimeter Aviation also offers regional flights and charter services based in Manitoba. They hire pilots with as little as 250 hours, especially for their Medevac and cargo operations.
Bearskin Airlines
This regional airline operates in Northern Ontario and Manitoba. Bearskin is a good experience for out-of-the-box new pilots seeking to fly smaller aircraft in more remote areas.
Northwestern Air
Northwestern Air — which operates in Alberta and the Northwest Territories — scoops up low-time pilots for goods and passenger flights. Their operations in undeveloped locations make them a unique opportunity for adventurous pilots.
Flight Schools and Teaching Positions
In Canada, many flight schools employ pilots with only 250 hours as flight instructors. This is a great way to earn hours whilst making a guaranteed income.
250-Hour Pilot Jobs in Canada: What do you need?
It’s important to know beforehand what qualifications and certifications you will need before applying. Here’s a breakdown:
Commercial Pilot License (CPL): CPL is a minimum requirement for most pilot jobs in Canada. Confirm that you are Licensed by Transport Canada
250 Flight Hours: For some jobs you may need a few more hours, but most regional airlines and charter services will take pilots with 250 hours.
Medical Certificate: You will need to obtain at least a valid Category 1 Medical Certificate to fly commercially.
Instrument Rating: This is not required but having one will make you a more competitive candidate.
A Canadian Citizen or Work Permit: Most airlines prefer Canadian citizens or permanent residents, but some visas may be sponsored for overseas pilots.
Regions in Canada with the Most Opportunities
Canada’s aviation industry is not uniform — some areas of the country are better for low-time pilots than others. So where should you look for work?
Northern Canada
In remote areas of the country, such as the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut, there’s a high demand for pilots because of access by road. Airlines in these regions frequently employ low-hour pilots for cargo and pass flights.
Manitoba
Perimeter Aviation and Bearskin Airlines are both from Manitoba, one of several regional airlines in the province. The diverse aviation needs in the province create a hotspot for entry-level pilots.
Ontario
Ontario is home to several regional airlines, flight schools and charter services. Low-time pilots are sought after by some cities like Thunder Bay and Sudbury.
Alberta
Alberta has a thriving oil and gas sector, ranging from charter and cargo operations. Northwestern Air is an employer of importance in this region.
Salary Expectations for 250-Hour Pilot Jobs in Canada
As a pilot with 250 hours, you’re likely entering the industry at an entry-level position. Here’s what you can expect in terms of salary:
- First Officer Roles: 30,000–30,000–50,000 per year
- Bush Pilots: 35,000–35,000–55,000 per year
- Flight Instructors: 25,000–25,000–45,000 per year
While these salaries may seem modest, remember that gaining experience and flight hours will open doors to higher-paying roles in the future.
How to Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market
Making yourself distinguishable is crucial with so many aspiring pilots competing for limited spots. Here are some tips:
Network with Industry Professionals
Make sure to attend aviation job fairs, join pilot forums and connect with current pilots on LinkedIn. Networking can sometimes lead to jobs that aren’t openly posted.
Tailor Your Resume
Emphasise your 250 flight hours, relevant qualifications, and any niche experience (e.g., bush flying, flight instructing). Use terms such as “low-time pilot jobs Canada” and “entry-level pilot jobs Canada” to match the job postings.
Obtain Further Certifications
Get instrument rated or a multi-engine endorsement. These extra credentials may help set you apart as a candidate.
Apply to Multiple Airlines
Don’t restricting it to one or two employers. Just apply to as many regional airlines and charter services as you can; this will help increase your chances of getting the job.
Be Willing to Relocate
Many 250-hour pilot jobs are located in remote areas. Being open to relocation can significantly expand your job opportunities.
FAQs About 250-Hour Pilot Jobs in Canada
1. Do I qualify for a pilot job in Canada with only 250 hours?
Yes! Many regional airlines and charter services in Canada employ pilots with only 250 flight hours. Companies include Jazz Aviation, Perimeter Aviation, and Bearskin Airlines.
2. Where are the best places to find a low-time pilot job in Canada?
The best places to find low-time pilot jobs are northern Canada, Manitoba, Ontario and Alberta. These regions commonly have a growing aviation market and are remote so they have a high demand for pilots.
3. What should I do to get hired/double my chances to get hired?
Reskilling, networking, custom resume writing, certifications and relocation are some of the best ways to stand out in a competitive job market.
4. How much does a pilot with 250 hours make in Canada?
Entry-level pilots in Canada typically earn between 30,000and30,000and55,000 per year, depending on the role and location.
Conclusion:
With 250 hours in Canada, a pilot job is achievable if you approach the search in the right way and get yourself ready. But, through targeting regional airlines and networking for all the right certs and positions, can make it happen for sure.
You have to remember, that every pilot had to begin somewhere. Keep working hard, and that those 250 flight hours will turn out the stepping stones for a long and effective career in aviation. So, polish that resume, submit some apps, and prepare for takeoff!