Destination Porter: Cadet Program
Your direct path to Porter Airlines starts here.
The Destination Porter: Cadet Program is a structured training pathway developed in partnership with Porter Airlines and CAE, based in Kingston, Ontario. Students accepted into this comprehensive program receive a conditional offer of employment from Porter at the outset of their training, creating a clear route into First Officer positions on Porter’s Dash 8‑400 fleet upon successful completion of all requirements.
who this program is for
- Students with little or no previous flight experience
- Individuals entering aviation from various backgrounds
- Those seeking a defined route to First Officer employment with Porter Airlines
What you will earn
- Private Pilot Licence (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL)
- Multi-Engine Rating
- Instrument Rating
- Integrated Airline Transport Pilot Licence (iATPL)
Career pathway to porter airlines
Eligible students receive a conditional offer from Porter Airlines and, after completing all program requirements, progress into First Officer roles.
program duration
Approximately 20 months, including integrated iATPL training at Cygnet and type training at CAE Toronto.
training locations
Kingston Airport (CYGK): All flight training
Gardiners Road Training Centre: Classroom and simulator sessions
CAE Toronto Training Centre: Dash 8‑400 type qualification
Program Details
What your training includes
Diamond Aircraft Fleet
Training begins on Cygnet’s Diamond DA20 before progressing to the DA40 and DA42 as skills advance, building a strong foundation for airline‑level operations.
Simulation training
Training includes nearly 90 hours on ALSIM ALX and AL4x simulators, using scenario-based, airline-aligned training.
Multi-Crew Coordination (MCC)
A 45-hour MCC program taught by airlines pilots, simulating real-world 705-level two-crew operations.
Dash 8-400 Type Training
The program culminates in tailored Dash 8-400 training at CAE Toronto, preparing graduates for entry into Porter line operations, subject to program completion and conditions.
admission requirements
- Canadian citizenship or legal entitlement to live and work in Canada
(Permanent residents must also be able to obtain and maintain the crew visa documentation required for U.S. operations.) - Minimum age of 18 by the time of graduation
- Strong proficiency in written and spoken English, including ICAO Level 4 or higher
- A valid Transport Canada Category 1 Medical Certificate
- A post‑secondary degree, diploma, or equivalent
student experience
- Instruction from highly experienced faculty, including former airline and military pilots
- Mentorship from Porter Airlines throughout training
- Small instructor-to-student ratios supporting personalized coaching
- Weekly study halls supporting academic success
- Regular student forums promoting communication and feedback
Cohort intakes and training pace
- Full‑time schedule with daytime academics and variable flight times
- Training Requires availability up to six days per week
- Cohorts start dates align with training and hiring requirements; confirm current intake timing through the CAE Porter application portal: https://www.cae.com/porter
Frequently asked questions
Application Process
What are the admissions requirements for the Destination Porter: Cadet Program?
- Canadian citizenship or legal entitlement to live and work in Canada (Permanent residents must also be able to obtain and maintain the crew visa documentation required for U.S. operations.)
- Minimum age of 18 by the time of graduation
- Strong proficiency in written and spoken English, including ICAO Level 4 or higher
- A valid Transport Canada Category 1 Medical Certificate
- A post‑secondary degree, diploma, or equivalent
How do I apply for the Destination Porter: Cadet Program?
Applicants must apply directly through the CAE Porter application portal at: https://www.cae.com/porter. This is the official pathway for submitting your application to the Destination Porter: Cadet Program.
I have already started flight training; can I still apply?
This program is designed for individuals with little or not previous flight experience. Applicants with some training may still apply, but eligibility is determined through CAE’s application review. Learn more at https://www.cae.com/porter.
program cost and payment
How much does the Destination Porter: Cadet Program cost?
Program costs are provided directly by CAE during the application or consultation process. Contact CAE through the Porter application portal for full details at: https://www.cae.com/porter.
about the destination porter: Cadet program
What is the Destination Porter: Cadet Program?
The Destination Porter: Cadet Program is an airline‑focused cadet program delivered in partnership with Porter Airlines, CAE, and Cygnet Aviation Academy. Cadets complete iATPL training in Kingston followed by Dash 8‑400 type training at CAE Toronto, preparing them for First Officer roles with Porter Airlines.
What aircraft will I train on?
Students train on Cygnet’s Diamond DA20, DA40, and DA42 aircraft before completing Dash 8‑400 type training at CAE Toronto.
Do students receive a conditional job offer from Porter Airlines?
Yes. Eligible applicants receive a conditional offer of employment from Porter Airlines at the outset of training, subject to successfully meeting all program requirements.
When do classes start?
Cohorts begin in alignment with CAE and Porter’s training schedule. Applicants can confirm the next intake date through the CAE Porter portal at https://www.cae.com/porter.
About Cygnet Aviation Academy
Where is Cygnet Aviation Academy Located?
Ground School and simulator training takes place at Cygnet Aviation Academy’s facility at Gardiners Road in Kingston, Ontario.
Flight training takes place at the Kingston Airport (CYGK).
Can I arrange a tour of Cygnet Aviation Academy?
Yes! Please email info@cygnetaviation.com to schedule a tour.
For the most current information and full program FAQs, please visit CAE’s official Destination Porter page: Destination Porter: Cadet Program
Ready to take off?
Join our Destination Porter: Cadet Program by applying through the CAE website.
More Programs
Jazz Approach
The Jazz Approach is a first-of-its-kind Canadian pilot creation program for those with no prior flight experience
Free Agent Program
The Free Agent Program offers flexible iATPL training for cadets not yet affiliated with a specific airline.
