Your Path to a Transport Canada Flight Dispatcher License
Becoming a licensed Flight Dispatcher in Canada is a structured, regulated process. This page explains the requirements, steps, and outcomes clearly so you understand what the license is, how it’s obtained, and why it matters for your aviation career.
What Is a Canadian Flight Dispatcher License?
A Canadian Flight Dispatcher License is a professional qualification regulated under the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) and Commercial Air Service Standards (CASS). It certifies that you have the knowledge and competency to support flight operations at an airline level, working closely with flight crews and operational control teams.
This licence is essential for anyone aiming to work in airline operations in Canada.
Who Can Pursue the License?
There are no mandatory aviation prerequisites to begin the licensing process; you don’t need prior flight dispatch experience or aviation background to start training.
However, Canadian airlines generally require candidates to be at least 21 years old before hiring them into operational roles.
This means you can take the training and write the exams at any age, but recruiters typically expect you to meet the age requirement by the time you enter the airline workforce.
License Structure: Two Parts
The Canadian Flight Dispatcher License consists of two sequential components:
- Generic License training
- Specific Airline Training.
Part 1 — Generic License (Transport Canada Exams + Radio Certification)
This is the foundational stage and the focus of our Flight Dispatcher Training program. To complete this part, candidates must:
1) Pass Two Transport Canada Examinations
- Meteorology
- Flight Operations
These are multiple-choice exams written at an official Transport Canada Examination Centre anywhere in Canada when you feel ready.
During our course, we guide you on the exam booking, preparation, and writing process so you feel prepared and confident before attempting the exams.
Tip: Most students choose to sit the exams within 1–2 weeks after completing the training.
Did we mention the exams are free to write?
2) Obtain an Aviation Radio Operator Certificate
You will earn this certification through our in-house examination process as part of the course.
Once you have passed both Transport Canada exams and obtained your Radio Operator certificate, you hold a Transport Canada Flight Dispatcher license and are qualified to apply for dispatcher positions with Canadian airlines.
Note: Transport Canada exam results are valid for 24 months, and once you secure employment, they remain part of your dispatcher record.
Part 2 — Specific Airline Training (On-the-Job)
After earning the Generic license and securing a dispatcher position with an airline, you will complete Specific Training with that employer.
Each airline has its own fleet, systems, routes, and procedures. Specific training usually includes:
- Ground school on company-specific processes
- On-the-job instruction under supervision
- Familiarization flights in the jumpseat with pilots
- A competency desk check is usually an 8-hour evaluated work shift
This phase typically takes 2–6 months, depending on the airline, and culminates in your fully-qualified Canadian Flight Dispatcher status for that operator.
If you later join a new airline, you complete that airline’s specific training again, maintaining your dispatcher credential within its operational context.
What This Means for You
Completion of the generic licensing stage (Transport Canada exams & Radio Operator Certificate) gives you the core credentials Canadian airlines require to hire you as a dispatcher.
Once hired, your employer will provide the additional specific training needed to operate their systems, procedures, and fleet.
This two-stage system ensures every dispatcher in Canada combines regulatory qualification with airline-specific competence.
Want Further Details on Exam Steps and Booking?
Learn how to prepare for and book your Transport Canada Flight Dispatcher exams, including locations and filing steps:
Transport Canada Examination Centers & How to Book
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Understanding the licensing process is one thing. Preparing for it with confidence is another.
Our Flight Dispatcher Training program is designed to:
- Teach you the knowledge required to pass the Transport Canada exams
- Prepare you for the operational expectations of Canadian airlines
- Support your aviation career transition with clarity and credibility
Flight Dispatch Training Canada 