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Gyrocopter training
Posted: Fri Nov 07, 2025 5:44 pm
by Zavie
Can someone explain how there are gyrocopter in Canada but no instructors for them? How do they train to fly them if there are no CFIs?
For example I see RAF 2000 gyros for sale but no CFIs for them.
If I wanted to buy and train on a type where there is no CFI in Canada, is there a way to do that?
I don't have a licence and am wondering if I have options other than what the CFIs fly?
Thanks
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:32 am
by CensoredLF
Most people have to go to America for training.
HTH
CLF
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:37 am
by CensoredLF
See if I can get this past ...

There is a specific name or label for a pilot who flies very low below clouds. Search for a website suing that name. On that site ask your question. There is/was a very knowledgeble and opinionated pilot on there who was into gyros.
Hope this sticks around long enough for you to see it
CLF
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sat Nov 08, 2025 11:31 am
by Zavie
Thanks CLF, there is a lot wrapped up in your post that I don't fully understand since I am new to the whole flying thing.
I will attempt to solve the riddle.
I wouldn't object to conversing elsewhere. My user name is my real name and fairly unique.
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2025 9:06 am
by ruffdeezy
There is Gyro training in Drayton Valley, AB and i think a couple in Quebec
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2025 5:37 pm
by Zavie
ruffdeezy, I was at two in Quebec.
My question was about how there are some types being flown in Canada but no instructors for them.
( I saw a Bensen in the TC registry and RAF's for sale, but no teachers that fly them?)
So can I fly something I haven't been taught in?
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2025 6:17 pm
by Zavie
So according to Transport Canada, if there are no FIs for the type I'd like to learn on then I can get a permit in the US and get it transferred to Canada.
Obviously the procedure is more complicated than that, but that is the upshot.
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2025 6:56 pm
by Tanker299
There is no “Type Rating” for a gyroplane. The back of the Aviation Booklet says GYP gyroplane permit. Much like you don’t need a float rating to fly an ultralight on floats. They are not very mainstream so you have to decide your risk, permit aviation is less restrictive in getting you in the air. Definitely more popular in Europe.
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2025 7:10 pm
by LineUpAndWeight
You don't need an instructor rating (gyroplane) to teach gyroplane. TC permits airplane and helicopter instructors to do it. See CAR 405.21(2) and standard 425.21(2)(d).
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2025 7:45 pm
by Zavie
Tanker999, this is a quote from the email I received Transport Canada:
" Two-seat gyroplanes each require their own type rating"
and also:
"The requirements to obtain a type rating for a two-seat gyroplane are listed in 421.40(3)(k). "
and also
"Once you have received training and completed a qualifying flight, you will need to apply to have each type rating added to your GPP" ( Gyro Pilot Permit)
I'm not an expert, that is why I asked in this forum, but I think the email from TC is pretty clear, have they made a mistake somewhere, I'd love to know?
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sat Nov 22, 2025 7:48 pm
by Zavie
LineUpAndWeight You are correct, but the airplane and helicopter instructors would need 10 hours on the type. So if I imported something, I'd have to find someone willing to do the 10 hours on my craft before they taught me.
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sun Nov 23, 2025 7:37 am
by LineUpAndWeight
Yes. The minister has decided that individual 2-seat gyroplane types are sufficiently different that they need individual type ratings. The fact that nobody offers training on a particular type in Canada doesn't get around that. The most practical way is to arrange training in the US or Europe before you purchase.
It looks like you need only a "qualifying flight" - there's no minimum training requirement. I don't have direct experience but (as is the case for aircraft type ratings) I think TC will accept a foreign qualified instructor as the person qualified to supervise that flight under 425.21(7)(c).
Re: Gyrocopter training
Posted: Sun Nov 23, 2025 12:17 pm
by Zavie
LineUpAndWeight : could you expand on "qualifying flight" ? regarding a US GPP transferred to a Canadian GPP, in the email TC said I must meet "all of the experience requirements for a GPP listed in CAR 421.20(4)." So I think that means the US experience needs to include everything I'd do in Canada ( even if that surpasses minimum US requirements) , so more than just a qualifying flight in the US?