KNOWLEDGE
The following regulatory links are for useful for RPAS operations:
If you plan to operate your RPAS in controlled airspace (Classes C, D or E) you must obtain a written RPAS Flight Authorization from NAV CANADA.
Links pertaining to the radio requirements for drone operators in Canada:
The following links will provide you more information should you intend on travelling with your drone:
That is correct. On June 1st, 2019, Transport Canada published new rules for flying drones in Canada. You can see those new rules in Part 9 of the Canadian Aviation Regulations here.
Yes. Transport Canada has developed a Basic Pilot Certificate and an Advanced Pilot Certificate.
If you meet all three conditions below, you will only need a basic licence:
You fly it in uncontrolled airspace
You fly it more than 30 metres (100 feet) horizontally from bystanders
You never fly it over bystanders
If you don't meet all three conditions then you must operate with the Advanced Pilot Certificate.
Flytbox is a self declared training organization with Transport Canada. You will find us listed on their 'Find a Drone Flight School' web page here.
Our curriculum has been designed to meet and exceed Transport Canada's 'Knowledge Requirements for Pilots of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems'.
No. Unlike manned aviation, there are no requirements for you to take a ground school course to write the exam.
The knowledge requirments document published by Transport Canada is essentially a study guide for the exam. If you are comfortable with the subject matter in that document you shouldn't have a problem with the knowledge exam.
Remember though, for those of you intending on getting your Advanced Certificate, you will also need to pass an in-person flight review. As part of that review you will be tested on the depth of your knowledge, and your flying skills.
While not required there are several reasons why you might want to join us in one of our classes:
Develop policies and procedures
Network with other RPAS operators
Insurance companies often require ground school training or at the very least will provide you with a more competetive rate
Client contract and site policies may require training
Prospective drone employers want to see training and experience on your resume
Just a few APPS we couldn't do without:
A great reference guide to phraseology for all pilots flying within Canadian airspace:
Get comfortable with the flow of communications over the radio by listening to live atc frequencies:
See what's intefering with your frequency:
Check with your local flying club or airport first, and if they don't have what you need check out these on-line retailers specializing in aviation goods:
UAV Site Selection Tool:
Geographic information (e.g. Terrain elevation, airport proximity, population centres, obstacles, etc.):
Aeronautical charts and airspace information:
Live air traffic around the world:
Remember that you can always call 1-866-WX-BRIEF (1-866-992-7433) toll free from anywhere within Canada to obtain a weather briefing.
Everything you need for indepth weather analysis prior to, and during, your drone operation.
Need help decoding all of that information?
Low level graphical wind information:
Get involved with these organizations that lobby on behalf of our industry.
If you want to stay up to speed on all things 'drone' you'd be hard pressed to find better information than what's coming out of these sites:
Feel free to dive right in and start learning all there is to know about the RPAS world. White papers, industry associations, blogs, articles, and more.
