Originally Posted by
+TSRA
Not speaking in an official capacity as I don't work for Transport Canada, but they are just a little busy dealing with all the recall paperwork from pilots at all the airlines. I am a check pilot though, so I do see the speed you're seeing. To give you some perspective on the issue, they are only now processing the check rides I did back in March because that's how busy they are.
Also, the airline I work for is bringing back in one month the same number of pilots we would hire in 6 months. That's one airline. Multiply that by the four other major airlines who laid off plus all the other corporate and regional airlines, and you have your answer why it is taking so long. TC is short-staffed at the best of times, so new applications have likely taken a back seat to the thousands of pilots returning to work. They all need medicals, check rides, security passes, and everything else that goes along with making sure they get back to work, so they naturally take priority over a new application. January 2022 is the next time my airline will be training the next batch of recalls and it sounds as though we'll be doing new hires for the pool candidates by the spring, so all those people will come ahead of a new applicant as well.
I'm not saying that TC can't process a new application quickly during normal times, but this is not a normal time and new applicants are likely on the wrong side of the priority list right now. I'd factor at least 3 to 6 months into your plans just for paperwork delays.
Thank you for the update.
I've heard the same, TC maxing out which can only be good news.
I'm converting my license for a future move to Canada. I have plenty of time and am in no particular rush, happy to wait. I just hope to have no hiccups in the application.
All the best. Cheers.