CDN licence; Where can we fly commercially?

skydivepilot · Post by **skydivepilot** » Fri Nov 16, 2007 8:24 am

I was just wondering where someone with a Canadian commercial licence can fly for hire. I'm told its next to impossible to get a work visa in the US but spots in the Caribbean might be ok. Any info is appreciated.

I just finished working 7 days a week for the past 6 moths so apologize for not doing reasearch on my own.

sky's the limit · Post by **sky's the limit** » Fri Nov 16, 2007 8:33 am

The simple answer - Canada.

If you fly an aircraft in the Caribbean, you'll mostly likely need and FAA conversion, I did, and a local equivalence. If you fly Cncn registered machines, then that's a different story.

I sure somebody will post a reference.

stl

fanspeed · Post by **fanspeed** » Fri Nov 16, 2007 7:53 pm

don't need a foreign licence if you can get a validation on your cdn licence. Definately helps to have an FAA or JAA tho

skydivepilot · Post by **skydivepilot** » Sat Nov 17, 2007 8:06 am

I've been wanting to fly in the US but it seems like getting a work visa is next to impossible. I read about Belize and other southern countries but am still unsure. It doesn't seem like there's a cut and dry answer, other than Canada. Don't get me wrong, I love our country but am just interested in other locations as well. Any info is appreciated.

sky's the limit · Post by **sky's the limit** » Sat Nov 17, 2007 8:32 am

To me, working in other countries is what it's all about, you get to experience many great things, and experience is after all what's it's all about. Not hours.

I've stopped over in Belize dozens of times for fuel, seems like the Air Taxi guys there are busy, and the reefs are beautiful. If you have ANY problems with humidity, I suggest you stay FAR away though...!

I think they use the FAA license there too, not 100% sure on that however. I'll see if I can dig up a picture or two, but I don't think they're digital...

stl

Rubberbiscuit · Post by **Rubberbiscuit** » Sat Nov 17, 2007 9:12 am

I know there are several countries out there that will accept the Canadian licenses after passing a local airlaw exam. In some of these places it might be predicated on having an ATPL. Africa is one of those continents where those coubtries exist. Know it is not much help. If you go and browse on i.e. http://www.flightdeckrecruitment.com, you can look at the job postings and see where the country is and what licenses are accepted......ICAO, FAA, JAR etc.

Good luck.

Cat Driver · Post by **Cat Driver** » Sat Nov 17, 2007 11:21 am

There is no one size fits all rules for getting exemptions in foreign countries to fly under their rules in their airplanes on a Canadian license.

I have exemptions under several countries which were granted after application and meeting their requirements...and I never had to write any exams so I guess it all depends on how you apply.

One warning, it can take a long time sometimes to get approval however each one makes the process easier when dealing with a new regulator.

skydivepilot · Post by **skydivepilot** » Sun Nov 18, 2007 5:44 am

Thank you for the replies everyone. I'll keep digging around and see what I can find. I did get a call the other day for an interview with a small local company so we'll see how that goes. I would like to travel and see this big world at some point.

sstaurus · Post by **sstaurus** » Sun Nov 18, 2007 10:36 am

I know a guy going to the Maldives for right seat on the twotter and they're accepting his Canadian license. Of course, he's way more than qualified but I'm not sure if that makes any difference.

pilotbc69 · Post by **pilotbc69** » Sun Nov 18, 2007 12:53 pm

Yeah, it certainly makes the job search harder when after spending so much time you find out it's impossible to work there. Maybe even a King Air job somewhere near a beach that someone knows about. Would be good to know.

All I can tell you is that The Caribbean is a big place. The parts that i have been to were all they were cracked up to be...and more. Easy air law for 6 months and difficult license if you are going to stay in the Eastern Caribbean 6 months plus but fun fun fun. live your dreams buddy.

trey kule · Post by **trey kule** » Sun Nov 18, 2007 3:20 pm

I am mostly going to repeat what the others said about the carib.

a. If it is a US territory, like Peurto Rico. FAA convesion
b. UK territory...validation for 6 months then Part 1-4 Exams.
you must have endorsement or PPC on your canadian license as they can only validate what you have.
c. French (guadaloupe, St. Martin....have their own process, as do the Dutch (Sint Marteen and Aruba.

The best way is to inquire of any operator you apply with as to the requirements. Be careful here. Some operators have been known to advise they do not pay until you finish training and then drag the training out for months.. Can get very expensive.

Pay in the Carib is not on a par with Canada, but for the most part the cost of living is low.. Caymans are very expensive to live as are the turks.
Other places like Antigua and Anguilla can be very low cost Depends on your lifestyle

Jumpseating for free is the norm. You need a valid airport pass and company ID and have to wear your uniform, but you can travel all over the Carib for free. Great way to experience all the area has to offer.

BTW. the Caribbean island stretch for about 2400 nm,s so there are many many differences.

Hope this helps