This program is for individuals with the unrestricted right to live and work in Canada.
Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)
A partnership between Cygnet Aviation Academy LP, CAE and Jazz Aviation LP, Jazz Approach is the first pilot creation program of its kind in Canada.
This program is designed for people with little or no flight experience. Applicants without any previous flight experience are encouraged to apply.
• Integrated Airline Pilot License Program training for 20 months in Kingston, Ontario
• Jet Orientation Training for 2 weeks at CAE Toronto
• Upon successful completion of the training program and subject to certain conditions, the graduates of the Jazz Approach will join Jazz as First Officers
Theoretical Knowledge
Foundation Flight Training
Intermediate Flight Training
Advanced Flight Training
Multi-Crew Coordination and Jet Transition Training
Jet Orientation Training
Jazz Approach
$130,895* CAD plus taxes
*The amount is subject to periodic review and might be adjusted accordingly.
Financing opportunities are available through CIBC and Scotiabank.
CIBC provides student loans up to $200,000.
Scotiabank provides student loans up to $100,000.
See www.cae.com/funding for further details.
Student loan applications and instructions will be provided upon acceptance into the program.
Although it is not a requirement, it is recommended that applicants, who are not familiar to aviation operations, participate in a Familiarization Flight on a small aircraft to better understand what to expect in flight training.
FAQs
1. APPLICATION
1.1 What are the pre-requisites to apply to the Jazz Approach program?
The pre-requisites for this program are listed on the website, cae.com/flyjazz and are as follows;
• Citizenship: Legally entitled to work in Canada, and a citizen or permanent resident of Canada. In the latter case, the Trainee must be able to obtain and maintain crew visa documentation required to operate aircraft within the USA.
• Minimum Education: Post-secondary degree, diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum Age: 18 years old.
• Physical & Medical Requirements: Must be able to obtain a Category 1 Medical Certificate issued by TC. https://tc.canada.ca/en/corporate-services/acts-regulations/list-regulations/canadian-aviation-regulations-sor-96-433/standards/standard-424-medical-requirements/standard-424-appendix-ii-limitations-restrictions-which-may-appear-permit-licence-medical-certificate#physical
• Language Skills: Fluency in English, both written & spoken; a minimum of ICAO level 4 English Language proficiency.
1.2 How do I apply to Jazz Approach?
Ready to apply? Fill out the form to determine your eligibility and proceed with your application on this webpage: www.cae.com/flyjazz
You will be required to enter your personal information, and submit the following 4 documents:
*Submit the transcript, degree, or diploma of your highest level of post-secondary education. For those who meet post-secondary education equivalency, please upload relevant documentation.
Priority will be given to applications that have indicated some kind of exposure to what flight training would be like. Although it is not a requirement, all applicants are encouraged to participate in a Familiarization Flight on a small aircraft prior to applying to the program.
Please be advised that CAE will only review applications that are completed in full, including all the above documentation. Applicants who meet the minimum eligibility criteria will be contacted by CAE within 2 weeks of their application with assessment instructions.
1.3 I am currently doing a post-secondary course. Can I apply before I graduate?
To be eligible to apply, you must hold a post-secondary degree, diploma, or equivalent. Proof of completion is required at the initial stage of your application.
We strongly recommend waiting to apply until you have officially graduated. However, if you are expected to graduate within the next six months, you may begin the recruitment process by submitting your most recent transcript along with your anticipated graduation date. Please note that your application may be placed on hold until updated documentation, such as your final transcript, degree, diploma, or equivalent, is received.
1.4 What should I expect after I submit my application?
Once your application documents have been received and reviewed, eligible applicants will receive an email confirming they meet the eligibility criteria. This email will include an invitation to complete the ADAPT assessment. A follow-up email will then be sent with instructions on how to submit payment for the assessment.
1.5 What do I need to know about the assessments for the Jazz Approach program?
Once payment for the ADAPT assessment invoice is received, applicants will be provided with a link to complete an online assessment, along with a digital handbook outlining what to expect. This assessment evaluates both personality traits and aptitude. If you are successful and selected to move forward in the application process with Jazz Aviation, you will be invited to complete two additional assessments and an interview. These next steps will be scheduled in advance directly with Jazz Aviation.
1.6 How long do I have to complete the ADAPT Assessment?
To maintain momentum in your application process, we recommend completing the ADAPT assessment within 2 to 4 weeks of receiving your access code.
1.7 Do I have to complete the assessment all in one sitting?
Each module of the assessment can be completed individually, and your score will be saved upon submission of that module. This flexibility allows you to complete the assessment at your own pace. Please note that each module must be completed in its entirety in one sitting. If you exit partway through a module, your progress will not be saved. The full assessment is expected to take approximately 3 hours to complete.
1.8 Can I arrange a tour of Cygnet Aviation Academy LP?
Tours of Cygnet Aviation Academy LP can be arranged upon request. Please email [email protected] to schedule a tour.
1.9 How do I get my Transport Canada Medical Certificates?
You can initiate your application before receiving your medical certificate. We will however, require a copy of your medical to confirm enrollment in the course. Your medical must be a Transport Canada category 1 medical – for more information on where to obtain one, please visit; https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/saf-sec-sur/2/came-meac/l.aspx?lang=eng
1.10 Do I need to have prior flight experience to apply for the Jazz Approach program?
You do not need to have any prior flight experience to apply for the Jazz Approach program however, we recommend that applicants participate in a familiarization flight prior to applying to the program. This will be beneficial as it can help the applicant better understand what flight training will be like.
1.11 I have already started flight training. Can I apply for the Jazz Approach program?
You can still apply with a PPL. Keep in mind that you will be required to complete the syllabus in full, regardless of prior experience. No credits or discounts will be given for existing flight time.
We consider those who are working towards their CPL, have their CPL or higher to be overqualified. Anyone who already holds a CPL is encouraged to follow the traditional hiring process and apply directly to Jazz online, once they meet minimum hour requirements.
1.12 I already have my licenses and a few hundred hours. Can I apply?
This program is meant for individuals with no flying experience, or low time (PPL or below). Individuals who already meet the qualifications and experience required to become a pilot at Jazz should apply through the traditional hiring process at: https://flyjazz.ca/en/careers/pilots/pilot-recruitment/
1.13 Is there an age limit to apply to the program?
There is no age limit to apply to the program, we welcome all career changes, however, keep in mind there are flight restrictions for those that reach the retirement age of 65 in the aviation industry.
2. COST, FINANCING & PAYMENT
2.1 How much does the Jazz Approach program cost?
The full course price is $130,895.55CAD, before taxes. This price includes your Integrated Airline Pilot Licence Program, including a Multi-Crew Cooperation Course (MCC), and a Cadet Bridge Course at CAE. In addition to the course price, you should budget housing costs in Kingston, Ontario at approximately $1,000-$1,100 per month with 3-5 roommates or $1,300-$1,400 per month with 1-2 roommates.
Remedial training, headset, uniforms, laptops, and books are not included.
2.2 Is there financing available for the Jazz Approach program?
Financing solutions are available to cadets and instructions on how to apply for your student loan will be provided to accepted cadets.
Please see the attached link for current financing opportunities:
https://www.cae.com/civil-aviation/become-a-pilot/how-to-become-a-pilot/funding/
2.3 What should I expect when I apply for financing?
Once you’ve been accepted into the program and are ready to begin the financing application process, please ensure you have the following documents and information prepared for your appointment with the bank:
2.4 Is the Jazz Approach program eligible for OSAP funding?
At this point in time, the Jazz Approach program is not eligible for funding under the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).
Federal and provincial student funding opportunities are being sought for the program. More details will be provided should such funding opportunities become available.
2.5 Are there any scholarships or bursaries I can apply for?
There are currently no scholarships or bursaries that we are aware of.
2.6 Can the program be paid in installments?
Yes, the program can be paid in installments. Accepted cadets will be provided with an enrollment agreement, which outlines the payment plan for the program.
2.7 What payment methods are accepted?
Payment is accepted in the form of e-transfers, wire transfers, cheques, and bank drafts.
Credit cards cannot be used for payment at this time.
3. TRAINING
3.1 Where will the training take place?
The ab-initio (on-aircraft) portion of the flight training course will be conducted at Cygnet Aviation Academy LP in Kingston, Ontario.
The simulator training for the Jet Orientation Course will take place at the CAE training center in Mississauga, Ontario.
Cygnet Aviation Academy LP is owned by Chorus Aviation. Chorus Aviation is also the parent company of Jazz Aviation.
3.2 What aircraft will be used for training?
The ab initio (on-aircraft) training provider will be using a fleet of Diamond aircraft (DA-20s, DA40s, and DA-42s), as well as simulators.
3.3 What is the duration of the program?
The duration of this program is expected to take 22 months in total.
The first 20-21 months will be spent training at Cygnet Aviation Academy LP in Kingston, Ontario. There you will complete your Integrated Airline Pilot Licence Program. The following month will be spent at CAE Toronto, in Mississauga, Ontario where you will complete a Jet Orientation Course.
This training program is a full-time commitment. You will be expected to attend training an average of 5 days per week. Due to weather delays, you may be asked to attend 6 days per week as necessary.
3.4 What is the Jet Orientation Course provided by CAE?
The Jet Orientation Course is designed for crewmembers with no previous experience on flying a jet. It focuses on the handling and operation of jet powered aircraft and is designed to develop the knowledge and flying skills required to perform their safe and efficient operation. The intent is to bridge the gap between ab-initio flight training and airline operations. The course is compiled of Instructor Led Ground School, Integrated Procedures Training (IPT), and Full Flight Simulator (FFS) training.
3.5 How many flight hours will I have when I graduate from the Jazz Approach program?
The Jazz Approach program follows a Transport Canada approved Integrated Airline Pilot Licence Program. You will graduate from the program with more flight and flight simulation training hours than are required under the regulatory minimums.
3.6 How often will classes be run?
Jazz Approach expects to run 3 classes per year and are scheduled to start in January, May and August. The exact class start dates will be communicated to cadets who are accepted into the Jazz Approach program, during the Enrollment Phase. The Jazz Approach program will continue to accept cadets for training, until otherwise communicated.
3.7 How often can I expect to fly per week?
Flying is very dependent on the seasons and the weather. The aim is for you to fly at least 3 times per week. Flexibility is key: if possible, you may fly more often. Alternatively, if you are scheduled to fly but the weather turns bad, you may be asked to do Ground School or a simulator session at short notice.
3.8 What is the cadet to Instructor Ratio?
The current ratio is 6 cadets per instructor. Cygnet Aviation Academy LP is hiring instructors as more cadets join, to keep the ratios balanced.
3.9 How many aircraft and simulators does Cygnet Aviation Academy LP Aviation Academy have?
Cygnet Aviation Academy LP currently has 5 DA-20s, 5 DA-40s and 2 DA-42s. Cygnet Aviation Academy LP is growing and has additional aircraft on order. Cygnet Aviation Academy LP also has two simulators (one ALSIM and another DA-40/42 simulator).
3.10 Where does the training take place?
Ground School and simulator training takes place at Cygnet Aviation Academy LP Aviation Academy’s facility at Gardiners Road in Kingston. Flight training takes place at the Kingston Airport (CYGK).
3.11 Is there a lot of self-directed learning?
While learning is classroom based, your success is largely dependent on keeping up with readings and making sure that you understand what is being taught. The instructors are always there to help and go into further detail, but it is expected that you dedicate enough time to reviewing the material you’ve been taught.
3.12 Where are Transport Canada exams written?
Students will write Transport Canada exams at a Transport Canada testing facility at either Toronto, Ottawa, or Longueuil.
3.13 What is the schedule like during training?
Ground School is taught Monday through Saturday, with an occasional Sunday class, between 9am and 4pm.
Scheduling for flight and simulator training can be outside of these hours, to take advantage of the season and the weather. Cadets are expected to be available 6 days per week for scheduling purposes.
3.14 Do Cadets get longer breaks during training?
No extended time off is scheduled. The program is designed to be a continuous, 22 month program. Any time off that is taken by a cadet, will extend the 22 month training timeline.
Some statutory holidays are given and cadets have a week off between Christmas and New Years. Cadets may request time off for personal commitments. It is requested that you schedule any time off as far in advance as possible. The attendance and time off policies will be reviewed during orientation.
3.15 Are all books provided?
Cygnet Aviation Academy LP Aviation Academy will provide the list of required books on your orientation day. You are expected to buy these yourself.
Cygnet Aviation Academy LP Aviation Academy issues pre-loaded iPads that contain the course content as well as some helpful apps.
3.16 What equipment do I need?
All required equipment will be outlined during orientation. You will need a headset for training. Many cadets want to buy their own for comfort, but keep in mind that Jazz issues headsets to all pilots. You will be issued a headset by Jazz upon completion of training.
3.17 Do cadets wear a uniform? What is the dress code?
Shirts and ties are provided by Jazz at no cost. The uniform will be sized to each cadet upon acceptance into the program. It is expected to wear black or navy-blue dress pants (minimal pockets) and black dress shoes. Cadets are expected to adhere to a business casual dress code until their uniform arrives.
3.18 Can cadets hold a full-time or part-time job while training?
Jazz Approach is a full-time training program. Holding any form of employment (either full-time or part-time) during training is strongly discouraged.
Cadets are expected to be available for training up to 6 days per week and will be required to go over study-material outside of scheduled class time. Furthermore, the training schedule is highly dependent on the weather, and therefore requires a high degree of flexibility on the part of all cadets.
4. ACCOMMODATION
4.1 Does Cygnet Aviation Academy LP Aviation Academy provide accommodation?
Cygnet Aviation Academy LP Aviation Academy does not provide accommodation for cadets in the Jazz Approach program. Cadets are expected to make their own accommodation arrangements. Cygnet Aviation Academy LP Aviation Academy is located in Kingston, ON, which is a student town. Apartments for rent are readily available. You should budget housing costs in Kingston, Ontario at approximately $1,000-$1,100 per month with 3-5 roommates or $1,300-$1,400 per month with 1-2 roommates.
4.2 Where can I find an apartment in Kingston?
Cadets have successfully found apartments on rentals.ca, kijiji, and Facebook Marketplace.
4.3 Are short-term rentals or housing provided during the type training in Toronto?
Accommodation is not provided during the type training in Toronto. Cadets are expected to find their own accommodation. CAE will support where possible.
5. EMPLOYMENT AT JAZZ AVIATION
5.1 What happens after graduation?
Successful cadets will receive a conditional letter of employment with Jazz Aviation, to progress to a First Officer position upon completion of the course. No additional time building required. Hiring at Jazz is based on available course dates.
5.2 How long does it take for me to flow through to Air Canada?
Jazz and Air Canada currently have a relationship that provides preferential opportunities for Jazz pilots to interview for positions as pilots with Air Canada. Jazz is a member of the Air Canada Express preferential interview process with Air Canada.
5.3 As a Jazz Approach cadet, is there a minimum amount of time I will be required to work for Jazz?
As a Jazz Approach cadet there is no minimum required time to work at Jazz after graduation. You can leave at any time.
5.4 What salary can I expect as a First Officer at Jazz upon graduation?
Information on Jazz pilot salaries and benefits packages are listed on the following website;
https://flyjazz.ca/en/careers/pilots/pilot-recruitment/
Scroll down to ‘Compensation and Benefits’ for full details.
