What is the CPL(A) licence?

The CPL(A) – Commercial Pilot Licence (Aeroplane) – allows the holder to conduct flights for remuneration, either as Pilot-in-Command on single-pilot aircraft or as co-pilot in commercial airline operations.

How to obtain a Commercial Pilot Licence

A CPL(A) licence can be obtained after completing either a dedicated Commercial Pilot theoretical course or an Airline Transport Pilot ATPL(A) theoretical course, followed by practical training and the required examinations before the Aviation Examination Board of the Civil Aviation Authority (ULC).

CPL(A) training at Smart Aero Flight Academy

The commercial pilot course can be completed either as a standalone CPL(A) programme or as part of an integrated ATPL(A) training pathway. Choosing the integrated option allows the candidate to complete three theoretical courses simultaneously: IR(A), CPL(A), and ATPL(A). The total number of training hours depends on the selected programme. The practical course consists of 20 flight hours on a Cessna 152 or a Piper PA-28 and 5 flight hours on a Piper PA-28R Arrow.

CPL(A) theoretical training covers:

• air law,
• general aircraft knowledge (instruments, powerplant, airframe and systems),
• on-board equipment and avionics,
• flight performance, planning and monitoring,
• navigation,
• radio navigation,
• mass and balance,
• aircraft performance,
• meteorology,
• operational procedures,
• principles of flight,
• VFR communications,
• human factors and limitations.

CPL(A) practical training includes:

• operating a complex aircraft (variable-pitch propeller, retractable landing gear, at least 4 seats),
• night flying,
• flight in various meteorological conditions,
• basic instrument flying,
• navigation skills development.

What participants receive during CPL(A) training:

• all necessary training materials,
• support from highly qualified flight instructors and aviation specialists,
• an individual approach and a friendly learning environment,
• guidance on all aviation-related questions.

Requirements for CPL(A) training

Minimum entry requirements:

• PPL(A) licence,
• NVFR rating,
• at least 150 total flight hours, including a minimum of 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC).

Candidates must also:

• be at least 18 years of age,
• hold at least secondary education,
• hold a valid Class 1 aviation medical certificate.

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