Navigating Drone Certification: The Basic Drone License in Canada and the Advanced RPAS

The rise of drones has transformed numerous industries, including agriculture, filmmaking, construction, and even emergency response. However, with this growth comes the necessity for responsible drone operation, governed by regulations that ensure safety in the air. In Canada, drone operators must meet specific certification requirements, whether for recreational or commercial use. Two essential certifications are the basic drone license Canada and the advanced RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System) certification, each serving a distinct purpose in the drone ecosystem.

What is the Basic Drone License in Canada?

The basic drone license Canada is designed for recreational and beginner commercial drone pilots. If you plan to operate a drone weighing between 250 grams and 25 kilograms in uncontrolled airspace, the basic drone license is all you need. This certification allows you to fly drones in most open areas, but it comes with specific restrictions to ensure the safety of both the drone operator and the general public.

In Canada, the basic drone license is governed by Transport Canada’s regulations. Drone pilots must pass a written test to demonstrate their understanding of the rules of flight, safety procedures, and Canadian aviation laws. The exam focuses on various aspects of drone operations, including:

• Airspace restrictions: Understanding where and when you can fly, particularly near airports and populated areas.

• Flight safety: Basic safety measures to prevent accidents, including avoiding no-fly zones, flying below a certain altitude, and keeping the drone within your visual line of sight.

• Weather considerations: Understanding how weather conditions, such as wind and visibility, affect drone flight.

• Regulatory knowledge: Knowing the Canadian aviation regulations for drone use, including privacy and airspace rules.

Why is the Basic Drone License Important?

The basic drone license Canada is important because it ensures that drone pilots are familiar with the fundamental rules and safety protocols needed for responsible flying. For new drone operators, obtaining this license is the first step toward operating legally in Canadian airspace. This certification also serves as a foundation for further certifications, such as the advanced RPAS license.

While the basic drone license allows pilots to operate in open, uncontrolled airspace, it comes with some key limitations:

• You cannot fly in controlled airspace (e.g., near airports or heliports).

• You cannot fly drones over people or crowds.

• You cannot conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, which means your drone must remain within your sight at all times.

• Night flying is prohibited under the basic license.

These restrictions ensure that drone operations remain safe and do not interfere with other aircraft or public safety.

What is the Advanced RPAS Certification?

For drone pilots who wish to engage in more complex operations, such as flying in controlled airspace or conducting BVLOS flights, the advanced RPAS certification is required. This certification is designed for experienced drone operators who need to meet higher operational standards. The advanced RPAS license allows for more flexibility in terms of flight locations, times, and operations.

The advanced RPAS certification is necessary for tasks such as:

• Flying in controlled airspace: This includes areas near airports, where drones must adhere to strict rules to avoid interfering with manned aircraft.

• BVLOS operations: Pilots with the advanced certification are allowed to fly drones beyond their visual line of sight, which is essential for tasks like long-distance surveying, inspection, or mapping.

• Night flying: The advanced RPAS certification also permits drone operators to fly at night, opening up possibilities for tasks such as nighttime inspections or aerial filming.

• Flying over people: While basic drone pilots cannot fly over crowds, the advanced certification permits certain operations where drones are flown over people, with specific safety measures in place.

To obtain the advanced RPAS certification, pilots must pass a more in-depth written exam that covers a broader range of topics. These include airspace management, advanced flight planning, and emergency protocols. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate their ability to handle complex drone operations safely.

The Benefits of an Advanced RPAS License

The advanced RPAS certification is beneficial for commercial drone operators who want to expand their capabilities and access more complex drone missions. Some of the key advantages include:

• Increased operational scope: With the advanced certification, drone operators can take on more diverse and high-value projects, including aerial inspections, agriculture surveys, and mapping in controlled airspace.

• Compliance with regulations: The advanced RPAS license ensures that drone operators are fully compliant with Canadian aviation laws, which helps reduce the risk of fines and legal issues.

• Professional credibility: Having an advanced RPAS certification enhances a drone operator’s credibility in the industry, making them more competitive in the job market or when bidding for projects.

• Safety and risk management: The advanced training prepares pilots to assess and manage risks effectively, ensuring safe operations in complex environments.

How to Transition from a Basic Drone License to an Advanced RPAS

For drone operators who already hold the basic drone license Canada and wish to upgrade to the advanced RPAS certification, the process involves a few additional steps:

1. Complete the necessary flight hours: To qualify for the advanced certification, pilots must have a minimum of 50 hours of flight experience, which includes time spent flying drones under various conditions and environments.

2. Study for the advanced exam: The advanced RPAS exam is more comprehensive than the basic test, covering advanced flight planning, airspace regulations, and emergency procedures. Pilots should review Transport Canada’s regulations, take training courses, and gain practical experience to prepare for the exam.

3. Pass the advanced exam: Once prepared, drone pilots must pass the advanced RPAS exam to obtain their certification. This test covers a wide range of topics and requires a higher level of understanding of drone operations and safety protocols.

4. Apply for an SFOC (Special Flight Operations Certificate): In some cases, drone pilots may also need to apply for an SFOC to conduct specific operations that fall outside the standard regulations.

Conclusion

The basic drone license Canada and advanced RPAS certification are both vital steps for anyone looking to operate drones professionally in Canada. The basic drone license is the starting point for most drone operators, allowing them to conduct simple operations in uncontrolled airspace. However, for those who wish to expand their operational capabilities and take on more complex tasks, the advanced RPAS certification is necessary. Whether you’re flying in controlled airspace, conducting BVLOS flights, or flying at night, the advanced RPAS certification ensures that you have the skills and knowledge to operate safely and professionally.

As the drone industry continues to grow, these certifications are becoming increasingly important for those seeking to work in fields like agriculture, construction, film production, and more. By obtaining the basic drone license Canada and upgrading to the advanced RPAS, drone operators can unlock a world of opportunities while ensuring they are fully compliant with Canadian aviation regulations.