Operating Rules

Maximum Altitude

According to Operating Rules, Drones in Canada must not be flown higher than 122 meters (400 feet) above ground level. This limitation is in place to avoid conflicts with manned aircraft, which often operate at higher altitudes.

• General Rule: The maximum altitude for drone flights is 122 meters (400 feet) above ground level.
• Altitude Exceptions: Operations requiring flights above 122 meters must obtain special permission from Transport Canada. These exceptions are generally granted for specific purposes such as surveying tall structures, conducting agricultural studies, or other specialized operations.

Importance of Compliance

Maintaining the altitude limit is crucial for ensuring the safety of both drone and manned aircraft operations. Violating this restriction can result in severe penalties and endanger air traffic.

Distance from People

Safe Distance for Basic Operations

Operators must maintain a minimum distance of 30 meters (100 feet) from bystanders for basic operations. This rule helps prevent accidents and injuries caused by drone malfunctions or pilot errors.

• Basic Operations: Minimum distance of 30 meters (100 feet) from bystanders.
• Crowded Areas: Drones should not be flown over large gatherings of people, such as concerts, sporting events, or parades, without special permission.

Advanced Operations

With an Advanced Operations Certificate, operators are allowed to fly closer to people, provided they adhere to specific safety protocols.

• Close Proximity: Operators with an advanced certificate can fly drones closer than 30 meters, but must follow detailed safety measures and risk assessments.
• Informed Consent: In certain cases, flying close to people is permissible if those individuals have given their informed consent and are aware of the risks.

Operational Safety

Maintaining a safe distance from people is essential to avoid injuries and ensure safe operations. Operators should always be aware of their surroundings and take preventive measures to avoid endangering bystanders.

Restricted Airspace

No-Fly Zones

Certain areas are designated as no-fly zones where drone operations are strictly prohibited. These include:

• Airports: Drones must not be flown within a specified distance of airports and aerodromes to prevent interference with manned aircraft.
• Heliports: Similar restrictions apply around heliports and medical evacuation sites.
• National Parks: Flying drones in national parks is generally prohibited to protect wildlife and the environment.
• Critical Infrastructure: Areas such as military bases, power plants, and government buildings are off-limits to drones.

Controlled Airspace

Controlled airspace is managed by NAV CANADA and requires special permissions for drone operations.

• Permissions: Operators must obtain authorization from NAV CANADA to fly in controlled airspace. This includes providing flight plans and ensuring compliance with specific safety requirements.
• Coordination: Communication with air traffic control (ATC) may be necessary during operations in controlled airspace.

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)

Temporary flight restrictions may be imposed for specific events or emergencies, such as natural disasters, VIP movements, or large public gatherings.

• Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs): Operators must check NOTAMs for any temporary restrictions before flying.

Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)

Requirement

Operators must keep their drone within visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times without the aid of visual enhancement devices such as binoculars or telescopes.

• Definition: VLOS means being able to see the drone with unaided vision throughout the flight.
• Exceptions: Special permissions are required for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, which involve additional safety protocols and equipment.

Importance

Maintaining VLOS ensures that the operator can maintain control of the drone and respond quickly to any potential hazards, such as obstacles or other aircraft.

Operational Best Practices

• Spotters: Using a visual observer or spotter can help maintain VLOS, especially in complex environments.
• Clear View: Ensure a clear and unobstructed view of the drone during flight.

Night Operations

Lighting Requirements

Drones operated at night must have appropriate lighting to ensure they are visible and can be safely navigated.

• Anti-Collision Lights: Drones must be equipped with anti-collision lights visible from at least 3 nautical miles.
• Navigation Lights: Additional navigation lights may be required to maintain orientation and visibility.

Certification

Operators must hold an Advanced Operations Certificate to fly drones at night. This certification involves additional training and safety measures.

Safety Considerations

• Enhanced Visual Aids: Use of enhanced visual aids, such as night-vision goggles, may be permitted with special approval.
• Pre-Flight Checks: Conduct thorough pre-flight checks to ensure all lighting and equipment are functioning correctly.

Summary

Adhering to operating rules is crucial for ensuring safe and compliant drone operations in Canada. By following these guidelines, operators can minimize risks, avoid penalties, and contribute to a safer airspace. Understanding and complying with altitude limits, distance requirements, restricted airspace rules, VLOS, and night operations are essential components of responsible drone usage.

To Learn more about acronyms used in this article visit our Drones Acronym Page.