CAI Rates of Pay – Civil Aviation Inspector (Government of Canada)

CAI rates of pay for all CAI (Civil Aviation Inspector) levels in the Canadian federal public service, 2026. Salaries range from $113,124 to $172,529 across 5 levels. Category: Technical & IT. Source: Treasury Board collective agreements.

CAI – Civil Aviation Inspector

$113,124 – $172,529

$4,351 – $6,636 biweekly (before deductions)

5 levels · Salary data from Treasury Board collective agreements

Rates effective from 2026-01-26 · Last verified 2026-04-16 · methodology

All CAI Levels

LevelStepsStep 1Max Step
CAI-015$113,124$125,684
CAI-027$120,893$141,787
CAI-037$128,846$151,123
CAI-047$136,610$160,308
CAI-057$146,933$172,529

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About the CAI Classification

The CAI (Civil Aviation Inspector) group covers Transport Canada inspectors responsible for overseeing the safety of Canada's civil aviation system. CAI employees inspect airlines, aircraft maintenance organizations, flight training units, and airports to ensure compliance with Canadian Aviation Regulations. They also certify new aircraft types, approve maintenance programs, and investigate aviation safety concerns. The group is based primarily at Transport Canada's regional offices across the country.

CAI positions typically require extensive prior aviation experience — many inspectors are former pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers (AMEs), or aviation operations specialists. The classification reflects the specialized technical knowledge required to assess whether airlines and aviation organizations are operating safely. CAI inspectors conduct on-site inspections, review technical documentation, and make regulatory decisions that directly affect aviation safety.

The CAI group operates under significant public safety responsibility: their oversight work is the primary mechanism through which Transport Canada ensures that Canadian aviation meets international safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The group has faced recruitment challenges as experienced aviation professionals often earn substantially more in the private sector, particularly at major airlines.

Want to know your take-home pay after taxes and deductions? Use the take-home pay calculator or compare CAI with other classifications.