CALDA

Becoming a Flight Dispatcher

Becoming a Flight Dispatcher in Canada

Are you considering a career as a Flight Dispatcher in Canada? We’re here to help guide you through the process and set you on the right path.

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

Your first step should be reviewing Transport Canada’s TP12513 – Study and Reference Guide for Flight Dispatchers . This document outlines the topics covered in the two required Transport Canada generic examinations.

You can access the study guide directly here:
TP12513 – Study and Reference Guide

Step 2: Complete the Required Examinations

To qualify for a Flight Dispatcher position at any Canadian airline, you must pass two Transport Canada exams:

  1. Operational Examination
    Covers Air Law, airport operations, theory of flight, performance, and other dispatch-critical topics.
  2. Meteorological Examination
    Assesses your knowledge of weather systems and your ability to interpret aviation weather products and reports.

Both exams are administered in person at approved Transport Canada testing facilities. There is no fee to complete these exams.
A list of exam center locations is available here:
Transport Canada Exam Centers

Step 3: Obtain Your Radio Certificate

You must also obtain the Restricted Radio Operator Certificate – Aeronautical, which is required for communicating on regulated aviation radio frequencies. This certificate is valid for life.

Validity Periods

  • Transport Canada Exams: Valid for 2 years from the date of completion
  • Radio Operator Certificate: Valid for life

Additional Airline-Specific Requirements

While the above steps are the foundation for a Flight Dispatcher application, each airline may have additional requirements, such as internal testing, interviews, or assessments. We recommend contacting individual airlines directly for the most accurate information.

If you have any further questions about becoming a Flight Dispatcher in Canada, feel free to contact us.

Please Note: CALDA provides this information as a general resource. We do not administer examinations nor are we involved in the hiring processes of any airline.