New Canadian Drone / RPAS Regulations are coming! Let's check them out!

Transport Canada announced a new wave of RPAS (drones and RC aircraft) coming into effect in 2024. I'll review their proposed changes and additions, and their implications. Please learn about the new rules and provide your feedback to Transport Canada asap. The deadline is Sept 22, 2023. Here's the link:
New Regulations with imbedded 'add comments' buttons: gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p1/2023/2...
TC email address for questions or comments: [e-mail]
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[@gto49us]

I’m new to drones, buying one in February and learning a lot. One thing I’ve learned in the last 8 years: trust in the government is at an all time low. And not wanting to turn this comment political, it’s impossible to do anything any more without government involvement… even hiking in the wide open spaces.

[@bongsurfer]

Well here’s my suggestion to all Canadian politicians: 1. Don’t make rules you can not force. 2. Don’t make stupid and useless rules. Thank you for your great videos 🙏

[@billmcdonald4335]

Item 1, sheltered operations. My feedback's going to request that, with regard to smaller, recreational craft, they expand their definition to things like trees, and utility poles; any permanent structure, natural or constructed. I'd also like to see them increase the minimum AUW from 250g to 1 kg. Most hobbyists - quad, helo, and fixed-wing - fly most of their under 1 kg craft in this airspace anyways, without serious incident to people, property, or livestock. A 5-inch FPV drone's no threat to general aviation, and we need a more sensible AUW cutoff.

[@advanceddronetech9461]

i agree with this

[@carlosamat]

thank you for the information... good as always... this is why drone companies will continue to focus on drones on under 250g... (better cameras, battery life, features etc.)

[@NolanGerald]

I posted a comment pertaining to this. I have sub 250g drones for events with naked gopros. I want to add a small gimbal but then I can no longer fly near people because my drone weighs an earth shattering 320 grams.

[@nospamevereh]

Excellent video, good to know what I have to completely ignore and steps to be safe. Ensure drone is untraceable, never register and above all DDAS (Don't Do Anything Stupid). Looks like it is cheaper to write the drone off than what is proposed. TC looks like it is on track to nicely hobble the industry for any use save candle holder on your coffee table.

[@WESDEANEMARTIN]

Amen.

[@wysiwygcanada]

Its not like the police follow the rules anyway. And when they are caught it's not like there are consequences.

[@jacquelinek6432]

Appreciate all your hard work Don! So much appreciated 😊 Thank you

[@rreiter]

Happy Canada Day! We appreciate the effort you put into this, thanks. I think their slight rewording of VLOS might cover flying behind trees (no longer says "contact at all times"). What I found funny is that they calculated the benefit to Recreational Pilots in part based on a footnote 15 which refers to a 2003 study "Updated Outdoor Recreation Use Values with Emphasis on National Park Recreation". Hmmm.

[@BrainDeadEngineering]

Thanks Don ! I was born in the early 60's . I geuss that was fortunate, I got to experance some life when it seemed so magical!

[@HobbiesHobo]

They're feeding off the recreational drone operators plain & simple, it's just going to get more and more complicated and more and more expensive. They're leeches plain and simple. Soon you can bet they'll require "Annual Renewal". An import tax on drones wouldn't surprise me!

[@Vegan_Cooking_Show]

Thank you for putting all this in comprehensible format. Incredible effort and presentation as always. I hope the FPV community can live up to your standard when it comes to providing feedback!

[@MalloyUnfiltered]

Thanks so much, Don!

[@davestredulinsky]

Thank you very much Don for your excellent summary of the proposed changes to the regulations and also for using my We-roll. Still in BC. Will be home in a couple of weeks.

[@jmartinianovlogging1482]

Thank You Sir For Making Time On This!!! 🍻

[@CaptCalgary]

Thanks for the update Don.

[@barbarajoyce6865]

Great overview of all the new info

[@TraceyFougere]

Happy Canada Day Don and family ❤🎉

[@hikinganddrone]

Thanks Don for your voice and info👍👍👍👍

[@PinetreeLine]

Great of you to share all this new information Don. Thank you Brother!

[@rgt4848]

Thanks Don.

[@squadsight]

Well said. Thank you!

[@grahampurse8758]

Thanks for your videos. You inspired me to get licensed. I will likely make a submission, too, before the comment period closes. These videos are super useful for inspiration.

[@leethstarwatcher]

"In short, "We were completely ignored"." LOLOLOL! :D Truth, Don! :)

[@DonJoyce]

I'm CERTAIN that's what I said.

[@Henrybailliebrown]

Hey Dan/all ^^ Name's Henry, and I'm a Canadian Commercial Pilot (CPL) and I've also been running a commercial drone small biz since 2014 :) I think there are def some positives in the new purposed regulations. Especially with "Sheltered" ops, extended ops and heavier weight categories without SFOCs. I agree and disagree with some of the comments made here. Like, I totally agree with SFOC fees being BS (money grab) as any paperwork that is meant to create a safe operation should NOT have a pay wall, we should be encouraging SFOC creation and not making people fly "underground" avoiding it due to fees. This is a TC funding issue that has plagued the TC offices for years. Heck when I first started and got my blanket SFOC under the old rules, they only had a few guys doing approvals, and none where full time drone guys. (many of them are now retired now too lol) So, using safety practices as a way to produce funds is NOT a good idea. I also agree with your point that the spotter shouldn't require their Advance certificate. I train spotters on site and as long as my training program is TC approved (which I have under my current company manual) that should be enough with basic spotting techniques. Coming from a Commercial pilot Background, I actually agree with a lot of the current and proposed regulations. I believe small commercial operators SHOULD retain their company ops manual with them at all times. Check-lists are everywhere in aviation and I believe they should be used in RPAS ops too. I know it might be a pain, but it's amazing how many times a check list has saved me in the cockpit AND flying my RPAS system for my small biz. I DO think they should do what they did with standard aviation and create two separate sections in the CARS. One for recreational and one for commercial ops, kind of like they have for 705 operations in Canada. As soon as you start making money there are a lot of things you should be doing such as company SOPs and training, insurance, etc... But I don't think EVERYONE needs it, especially if you are just flying a mini or something recreational :) ALSO, to answer your question, the "icing" part of the cars that relates to drones is absolutely fine. It is the same standard in regards to manned aviation where there is a zero tolerance for icing on aircraft (AKA the Air Ontario accident that helped this regulation into maturity). And also relates to icing conditions. It sounds scary but is basically common sense, if you have ice or freezing precip on your RPAS, don't fly, or if there is a reasonable expectation that you accumulate icing, again don't fly :) What do you guys think? Any questions on the CARS I'll be happy to help out ^_^

[@iSeaUnplugged]

I inquired about taking course but just not willing spend same money on a drone as on a course No bothered me yet One instructor tried scaring by saying don’t post it their watching lmao Yeah right Like all cut backs less officials out their Beside they can’t even stop littering

[@SnowHarp]

Aside from the policing of drones for safety reasons, they are regulating the heck out of this making it difficult for hobbyists to get involved. Also a predictable cash grab on the part of government - they just cannot help putting their hands in the pockets of Canadians to take their money. Honestly it is nauseating.

[@haseebdailyvlogs2207]

Very good sharing Zabrdast 👍

[@DeshanJayampath]

Thanks for the info!

[@AirPhotography]

Great video, Don. Thanks for sharing all this new information. Very interesting.

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, Shawn! A lot of material here to distill down to a consumable level. Now hopefully we can all focus on the parts we like and don't like, and provide feedback to Transport Canada.

[@JamesSmeaton79]

You provide a great service to us all. Thanks Don, you have been a very positive force in my drone knowledge.

[@DonJoyce]

Thank you, James!

[@peaceandlove2555]

Thanks Don you always helping everyone 👍🏻happy Canada 🇨🇦 day

[@DonJoyce]

Very welcome

[@cdnbaconeh7321]

$150 for foreign rpas pilots who are tourists that's insane. At least an exception for our neighbors to the south. Great video!!

[@LANDSEAAIRCANADA]

Happy Canada Day DJ

[@00fluxone]

just finished possibly breaking hand full of TC regulations this beautiful canada day - 5 lipos worth of 300+ gram 4s fpv mini quad in possible restricted airspace (all of vancouver island coast is restricted) at approx 40m height at an empty park field with no one in sight - there is no path to compliance for me so i will just carry on - these rules make no sense - an advanced RPAS for what I just did is absurd ps. I may have drank a beer at lunch within 48hrs of the flights.

[@Christine-ut4dv]

You rebel you

[@tomlam3680]

Soon we need 4-year Drone University Degree to fly drone

[@ORGANIZEDCoNfUsioN]

Thanks for explaining all this Don, that's a lot. Keep up the good work. Like # 457!!!

[@DonJoyce]

Thanks, Dave!

[@jimsdroneing]

Don more great info bud its so nice you really know your stuff and great you share

[@davebeningfield]

No changes to sub 250 gram drones....that's all I wanted to know. Thanks

[@PilotPlater]

Thanks for the homework Don, great overview of the proposed regs.

[@DonJoyce]

Glad it was helpful!

[@robfj3414]

It seemed like some of the rules were tailor made to address the police drone incident at Buttonville. And then you got to the part where the police would be exempt from certain regulations involving flying over large crowds. Like you said, bad idea. Somebody was asleep at the wheel… Again🙄

[@derekcox6531]

I really enjoy watching Dave’s videos from around NS. I’m from there and it’s always nice to see home from the air. Thanks for the update Don. Your ‘rant’ had my wife laughing. Apparently I share (out loud) many of your concerns about drone regs. This is what I want to say to TC >>>🖕. But I guess I’ll go start reading the latest and grudgingly submit my respectful feedback to those stunned bazterds…erm…I mean dedicated public servants. 🇨🇦 go Canada! Btw …Happy Canada day!🇨🇦🤩

[@gbower1]

Thanks for this overview Don. My Air 2s might not get a lot of flying in the future and sure glad I've got the Mini 3 Pro and will be continuing to fly sub 250 gm drones. I had thought of trying my advanced but cost is going to be so restrictive for someone on a fixed senior income. Good job and keep up the good work.

[@AndrewMoizer]

Thanks Don. So nothing about changing the 250g to something more sensible, plus no changes to the max altitude? So effectively RC glider thermal flying is still is still effectively not possible. Any hints that there's wording for organizations like MAAC to get their act together and have exemptions for members? Are you going to do some further suggestions on feedback that DPAOC and RC Aircraft should be providing, and where best to put it? That would be a big help. It seems clear to me that these regulations are being influenced almost exclusively by segments outside of the recreation segment. Your restraint is commendable.

[@DonJoyce]

Hi Andrew! Yes, sub250g rules are unchanged, but so is the magic 250g limit. Very unlikely to change that anywhere in the world. MAAC has gone quiet, but they are likely still working their plan to become 're-exempted'. Yes, I'll be doing a follow-up to this video suggesting places to focus feedback.

[@spikekavalench]

Great summary and I totally agree with you on all points, particularly your comments respecting the stupid rules already in place.

[@mayberrywj]

As usual, great analysis Don. I especially like your comment at 17:33......:)

[@JaypeaFoto]

Great video Don. Thanks for sharing. Still a shame they didn’t clean up the tests for us.

[@robfj3414]

Thanks for putting this all together in a concise package, Don. I’m a bit surprised at your surprise over the high figure attributed to exam re-writes for renewal of certification. Given that the alternative is to arrange, schedule and take another flight test, I’ll take the more convenient route at my laptop.

[@DonJoyce]

No...refreshing your Advanced certificate can be done a number of different ways, including free options. You do NOT need to retake the Advanced exam or take another Flight Review. This video shows the options (including one I offer): kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6jIdKmqjrtoaKs

[@cfnds1]

Good analysis Don. When I worked at TC I refused to spread acronyms and initialism thought written material. I suggest you do the same. It is not hard to do and then most everyone can follow what is being said, even if they don't know all the details.

[@DonJoyce]

Yes, you are right: I normally spell out acronyms the first time at least...sorry, I goofed up this time. Jargon so easily slips into our language.

[@timtheplaneman]

Thanks so much for the detailed review and analysis. Very insightful. What's most telling about all the words about "recreational flying" - it's all fluff, there is nothing in the substance that does anything for recreational pilots at all. I think it's most significant that "recreational RPAS users" are conspicuously absent from the "Stakeholder Consultation" section of the report, and yet there is lots of impact on us especially in the fees section. They seem to have spent a lot of time considering the impact on recreational flyers, while at the same time completely excluding us from the consultation process. hmm.

[@shawnswc2539]

I definitely agree with what you have said and couldn't believe that a complete nonsense and money grabbing that the government is doing about the AC units to me meeting that small that's not too heavy should be able to fly without so many stupid distractions in the recommendation that you had mentioned. Hopefully in the future somebody will slap them around a little bit and get them to realize how stupid that the rules that they are putting out is

[@leethstarwatcher]

How are police to know everything associated with RPAS for enforcement? They have more important things on their plate to respond to on a day-to-day basis. The industry is far more self-regulated with 'grassroots' enforcement (eg. informing new or other users of drones on a forum, what they need to fly or what a regulation is). Of course, as the population of users grow, there's more likely to be misuse and even accidents. And like anything else, steps to starting enforcement only begin when accidents become more quantifiable. Presumably TC knows this, which is why they are pouring on the regulations now for when accidents start becoming more apparent and enforcement becomes an actual priority. Police, though? Again... too much already on their plate to respond to. TC should have their own 'wardens' department by region for this sort of thing, if actual efforts for enforcement are to ever occur.

[@dbdigital5880]

Just looking to get my first drone thanks for this video

[@DonJoyce]

This introduction to the regulations is probably a better way to start: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eHvJpmmcfq2sjNk

[@dbdigital5880]

Awesome thank you I’m planning to start with Dji mini 3 pro

[@morioritysresponse2287]

To much Government overreach!

[@DavePianist]

I caught you saying, "I can, and do, put my phone number on the drone". That's a great tipe! It's actually a smarter and more efficient move. I'm going to do the same on my drone besides the registration number. 😃

[@DonJoyce]

Absolutely! If someone finds your drone and if they intend to return it, they'll call your phone number. Nobody in their right mind would go through Transport Canada with the Registration Number...well, unless it had gone through their window!

[@advanceddronetech9461]

thanks for summarizing don. The costs are kind of getting out of hand, too many hoops to jump through to fly a simple mavic 3 around.

[@xXBLAKGOATXx]

Wow i wasnt really fond of your videos so i always avoided you but ive been assured by other youtubers that you are the best place for knowledge on flying drones in canada and watching this video i would have to agree perhaps ill grow to like your style of content

[@xXBLAKGOATXx]

Perhaps it was some of your older content. I thoroughly enjoyed your content thank you

[@DonJoyce]

Hey, I don't like my older stuff either...LOL! Welcome back.

[@elijahrobertscinema6351]

Canada... rules rules rules rules and more gov to oversee rules. Im so over living here

[@pauljennings2451]

I’m from Australia and took my mini with me to Vancouver and through the Rockies to Calgary. Amount of time I was legally able to fly. Zip, Sfa. All National park. We are not out to destroy areas. But get better viewpoints for graphic video or photography. Sometimes it’s just to put drone vertically up 30/40 foot. I would rather send a drone to edge of cliff than my own body..on a cost perspective cheaper to lose a drone than a human life.

[@jeremylaliberte2828]

It's not just just drones that are restricted over National Parks, its also any crewed aircraft except those needing to conduct an emergency landing. There are a few exceptions for remote parks which have some fly in services. No offence, but Canada's National Parks are mainly meant to protect wildlife and sensitive natural areas, not to provide photo-ops and recreational opportunities for people. Those are incidental benefits. Drones and other aircraft disturb animals and change their behaviours, affect their nesting and feeding habits and cause harm. If we allowed low altitude drone flights in National Parks, people being people, how long before drones would be flying close to nesting birds to get photos for social media, chasing bears and moose for kicks, and spying on hikers and campers? This is one rule that should not be changed. If anything, we need better enforcement of this.

[@Christine-ut4dv]

So drones saved your life?

[@christianmoreton9326]

It will be interesting to see how we interpret this rule 901.50 about dropping objects. It does not appear to prevent dropping objects, it does prevent the pilot from creating a hazard.

[@DonJoyce]

Yes, you have it right.

[@tcz7742]

I think the best thing that could happen would be less government and fifty percent less civil servants. The remaining civil servants could be kept busy doing things that actually matter.

[@jeremylaliberte2828]

Protecting Canada's airspace doesn't matter?

[@rbjohnson]

I would like to see some specific designations be made for FPV flying since there is definitely a difference it makes for situational awareness and safety of flight instead of having it be tied the same as other BVLOS flight. They should loosen the regulations around FPV flying.

[@DonJoyce]

I agree. In fact, any low-altitude, contained-environment kind of flights need special treatment.

[@nota_verygood_huntingchannel]

Just ask any Canadian gun owner what this all leads to.

[@DonJoyce]

I understand.

[@seyanbryan520]

📢 PLANE ✈ 😂....... Thanks for the info ℹ

[@iSeaUnplugged]

Yeah even in national parks both sides of border I seen people sneak in their drones The reality is no one policing it for one reason or another

[@TheBibleCode]

Get a Dji Mini 3 Pro. Simple at this point with regular drones you'll need a Aircraft License 🪪 😂

[@HighUpInLarderLake]

I am excited about the new bvlos rules. I live in an area that has a population density of less than 5 people per km square, so I fall into low risk category on all flights. Currently I tag all my mini flights on Nav Drone as bvlos, but have not tired yet with my larger drones yet. Hoping that I can have a long record of approved bvlos operations on my Nav Drone account so when I ask for a SFOC they won't reject it lol

[@Vegan_Cooking_Show]

I hope you have $150 per flight sitting around.

[@HighUpInLarderLake]

@@Vegan_Cooking_Show Flying over someones freshly purchaed forested land requires me to fly bvlos. The acreage that people buy is substantial out here. This morning someone is like "I am at the restaurant if anyone wants to buy 40 acres of bush for 150k" lol People buying 30-100 acres of property with no access in not unsusal up here. Rolling a government fee into the price does not reflect on me at all. I am transparent with people on my prices. If It now requires a $150 fee that would just be another line item.

[@jamiegallagher3407]

Great work Don . i used all of your study material and your drone pilot app. and did my advanced flight review yesterday and passed but tc website says no flight review submitted to the drone portal . i can not get in touch with the flight reviewer and he was on the tc website as a trainning provider that does the flight reviews . so now i am out 250 and no advanced certificate. i realize that i have to also pay an additional 25 for the application for the advanced pilot certificate. but can not get there as my flight review has not been submitted and that way 24hrs ago now. so i subscribed to you and thank you for your informative videos and app. but i am now only a basic certified pilot . i am too old too fight with the gov. and with the flight examiner.

[@DonJoyce]

Hi Jamie! Congratulations on passing your Advanced Exam and your Flight Review!! I hope the problem you are encountering is just a glitch with the system!! You are correct: before you can receive your Advanced Certificate (ie, paying your $25), the Flight Reviewer must submit his passing assessment into the Drone Management Portal. Normally, this is fairly quick (there's a bit of a form he/she fills out online, but not a big deal), and you can apply for your certificate immediately. There is no manual intervention by Transport Canada. So, you need to get hold of your Flight Reviewer first before doing anything. If that fails, the person at Transport Canada to contact for assistance is [e-mail] . You've done the work....but just need to get the system to recognize that!

[@jamiegallagher3407]

@@DonJoyce thanks Don i appreciate the info.

[@BassAnywhere]

Hey Don, thanks that video ! For someone like me who want to offer crop spraying drone services in the future, that information is very much appreciated. So if I got it right, the new rules for medium RPAs are very good news for big agricultural drones like the DJI T40 ! Was the Standard 922 just updated ? I'm curious to know if that drone meets the new requirements.

[@DonJoyce]

Yes, this is good news for agricultural drones. There is a draft Standard 922 that corresponds to the new regs. I believe it is referenced in the TC document.

[@IslandFilmMaker]

Crazy! Looks like a TC money grab to me. Hopefully TC will use this money to do a much better job at clean up these Regulations. Thx Don for all you do

[@Cloudy-Media]

The SFOC fee is nuts. $50 would be hard to swallow but I’d live with it. Thank god I’m about to get my standing one and there was no talk about renewing and if it cost 150 at least the more events I fly the cheaper it is

[@grahampurse8758]

Kindly make a submission during the consultation. Maybe they will consider the issue you have identified.

[@Aerosnapper]

Thanks for this timely analysis of quite a wide-ranging set of proposals. The great news is that for sRPAS fliers the changes are largely positive. The need to define and tighten control over operations involving drones over 25 Kg is understandable and unlikely to affect anyone except a larger commercial operator.

[@andreverville9492]

Do I understand correctly that low risk BVLOS always require a licensed advanced pilot playing the role of visual observer? And that visual observer just needs to be standing besides the pilot scanning the sky for incoming aircrafts? What is believed the worthwhile additional safety compared to the pilot himself doing his own regular sky scans is that supposed to provide?

[@DonJoyce]

The scenario I showed with the diagram is not 'low risk BVLOS'...it is 'Extended VLOS'. In those scenarios, when the drone itself is basically out of range of the pilot's vision, the pilot is expected to be flying via the controller, with the visual observer focusing on the airspace. I show them side by side, but they can be more remote as long as they have a reliable means of communication.

[@maficstudios]

The problem is always that the people writing regulations have their own agendas and background, and very rarely have 'real world' experience. Generally, TC is better about that, but clearly not when it comes to drone regulations. I'm sure if they brought together a group of experienced pilots in a focus group, they'd very quickly be able to distill things down. Frankly, I'd be happy to pay higher fees if the operational costs in time and complexity are removed. Like with BVLOS. If the pilot is flying above their property, or with the property owner in remote areas (say any land that is zoned 'agricultural' or 'rural', then there are no BVLOS restrictions inside of 30m of property boundaries, and maybe keep the AGL to 40m. Distance from lakes and other aircraft landing zones apply. Then property owners can fly inspections of their land(s) without breaking any rules. And that's just one obvious exception.

[@robertjulianagnel1100]

I agree with much of what you say, but realize the government must consider how any legislation will impact all Canadians so they do have agendas but they aren’t personal, everything is run by the bureaucracy TC and 2-3 other depatments are involved in wrting legislation.

[@maficstudios]

@@robertjulianagnel1100 Well limited agency over 'personal airspace' shouldn't be something that's too hard to manage. Not carte blanche, of course. Given that you can raise a flag pole or a comms tower below a certain height without permits in many jurisdictions, in my mind, you should be able to fly your own drone if in that same airspace. Assuming you're not near any flight exclusion zones.

[@robertcovell2787]

So I have been building (kits and scratch from plans) fixed wing, line of sight, modeled after full size aircraft, maximum !/4 scale for 50 years. Some use a grass runway, some are on floats. None have larger than 100 inch wingspan nor 1.60 cid glow engines. Please tell me where I find myself in this dog's breakfast???

[@DonJoyce]

Hi Robert! It starts with the take-off weight of your models. If they are between 250g and 25Kg, then you have what is called a 'Small RPAS' and are subject to many standard rules. The second question is where you are flying...controlled airspace or not. If controlled airspace, then you'll need your Advanced Pilot Certificate; otherwise a Basic will likely do the job. Please check my playlists for MANY videos on these subjects.

[@Vegan_Cooking_Show]

Hi Don! I've been enjoying FPV simulators like Drone Racing League and Liftoff lately. Any suggestions on what to write to get them to ease up on the restrictions to FPV flying?

[@DonJoyce]

Sneak preview: DPAC is forming a position paper on the regs. For FPV, we are saying (draft at this point): "DPAC recommends the CAR 901.11 Visual Line-of-Sight rule be amended to indicate that a VO is NOT required when flying FPV, providing the following conditions are met during the flight: a. Greater than 30m (100ft) from bystanders b. Flying below 30m AGL and within 250m of the pilot c. A reliable and continuous remote view from the onboard camera d. Flying ‘forwards’ in the direction the onboard camera is pointing" Feel free to use something like that....but certainly if you think this position can be improved, let me know by email to [e-mail]

[@Vegan_Cooking_Show]

@@DonJoyce That's awesome!!! You've really thought of everything and everyone. The community is truly fortunate to have you.

[@Komioneee]

Hey Don! Thank you for the video, I just passed my Basic exam and registered my first drone. I have a sub 250g and I just got the Nazgul F5 V2 and its around 444g. I'm just trying to wrap my head around this...from what I'm understanding the sub 250g are pretty much the same but to fly my 444g Drone. I would need the New level 1 Exam with flight review and medical check ups along with the expensive fees and what does this mean for the people currently licensed with basic exams flying 444g drones?

[@DonJoyce]

Whoa...! The new pilot certification is not likely to be anything a recreational pilot would be going for; it's designed for large drones, beyond visual line of sight operations, and basically large commercial stuff. There is no significant change for those of us flying sub250g drones or having a Basic Pilot Certification for flying drones between 250g and 25Kg.

[@Komioneee]

Thank you for clearing that up, I was a bit overwhelmed at first but hoping we do get some better laws around FPV @@DonJoyce

[@jonsgoproadventures9336]

Does anything change for drones under 250g?

[@dontcallmebrave]

Just did a quick skim it looks like it's only changes for anything 250g or higher. They're basically adding rules to allow 25kg-150kg for package delivery and other commercial stuff and then also increases fee's and adding requirements for everything else 250g-25kg.

[@petewenk]

A vacationing US citizen can fly a sub 250 gram drone without an SFOC, obviously respecting restricted airspace, correct? And a Canadian license is not required in this case, also correct? Thanks for the helpful video.

[@DonJoyce]

That is correct. Foreign pilots can fly sub 250g drones with no need to register or pass a test. That said, I encourage you to understand what restrictions DO exist for these micro drones: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpSTfI2ih9KArtE

[@DavidAdlawan_]

I can bring my Dji Mini 2? From Vancouver to Philippines without registering the drone?

[@DonJoyce]

I suggest you google it.

[@billmcdonald4335]

I decided I'm not gonna bother talking to TC. _They don't set policy._ I've started a convo with my MP. . .

[@IN10THRC]

I am extremely confused by 21:09 in the video, referencing SFOC requirement for flying "outside domestic airspace". If an RPAS pilot is flying outside Canadian airspace, would that not be outside of Canadian regulatory jurisdiction? There's a slightly-below-zero chance of this actually affecting me personally, but it seems that if there IS a perfectly good explanation for this, then it should have been worded a lot more clearly. Thanks as always, Don.

[@DonJoyce]

Yeah, that one is a bit of a mystery. I BELIEVE they are referencing cases where you are flying out into the Atlantic or Pacific ocean (vs into US airspace). The current regulation says you cannot leave Canadian airspace at all.

[@IN10THRC]

@@DonJoyce A quick look at a Canadian airspace map would seem to indicate that if I were still standing on Canadian soil, I would be violating VLOS and even any potential BVLOS rules by a pretty damned wide margin, long before I breached THAT particular bit of legislation. Gotta love government.

[@DonJoyce]

@@IN10THRC True, but the coast guard and other marine folks fly drones off of ships. I think that may be the use-case. Feel free to send a question in.

[@tpaine666]

This is an excellent video, IF you are familiar with the alphabet soup of acronyms... otherwise, it is almost incomprehensible! Best practice is to say the full meaning of the acronym the first time you use it and then you can use the acronym as much as you like. I very much appreciate your videos, but you need to make them accessible to everyone, not just people steeped in Transport Canada (TC) lingo. Keep up the good work, but don't fall into the trap of using 'government-speak'.

[@DonJoyce]

Yes, I definitely should have 'spelled out' acronyms the first time. I usually do, but I goofed up this time. There was SO much information to convey, I overlooked this simple step. Sorry.

[@JLNjedi]

Let my pilot license expire, taking to long for any good changes. I fly here on my farm and there is no way I’m flying circles 500ft around myself because of Vlos. I don’t have to retake my Drivers License exam just to drive every 2 years so why would with a drone.I would pay $25 to renew my drone licence but to have to take a course or retake the joke of an exam. One more department of the government I will just choke up as a bad joke. Disappointing is to put it lightly. DJI FPV unit now for sale. 😢

[@armando.visuals]

How Don, what is the best course or so to study to pass the Advance Operations Certificate?

[@DonJoyce]

I would recommend you download my free Training Roadmap (www.pocketwatchpurveyor.com/collections/drone-study-guides/products/dons-rpas-training-roadmap), watch the applicable videos, consider purchasing my Study Guide (there's a link in the Roadmap), and go from there. You do not need to pay for a ground school.

[@armando.visuals]

@@DonJoyce link is not working

[@alexanderzawydiwski9534]

Has anybody made a video about the rules of a mini advanced license Canada drone portal has to offer I don’t get the difference between advanced and mini advanced. They haven’t posted any official rules about it.

[@DonJoyce]

There is no such thing as a 'mini advanced license'. Transport Canada refers to the current advanced exam as the 'Small Advanced Exam', with the 'small' referring to the class of drones between 250g and 25kg. (drones less than 250g are 'micro drones', and next year there will be 'medium drones' over 25Kg. This video may help you understand the regulations as they apply to drones under 250g: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pqfRmI1vm7uEf7M

[@bobreiber2066]

They should have changed the regs so that people who fly model aircraft only need one registration. As long as TC knows who the owner is, it really doesn't matter if it is a 1/4 scale Cessna or a Piper Cub. It really is just a money grab ...

[@user-re7tz7my5g]

I recently bought a used Mavic 2 zoom and am studying for my basic certificate. I am overwhelmed with what I need to study to get my cert , what \i need to learn to fly and now changes coming in 2024. It' like an ever moving target. Where do I start?

[@Iceking007]

Yes, very much a challenge. I am just getting into the hobby as well. Times were far simpler when I was a child flying RC fixed wing aircraft. I would suggest contacting some local flight schools. You could attempt to research and learn the material on your own, but if it gets overwhelming, or you fail a couple of attempts, then I would recommend getting that professional help. Best of luck, fly safe, take it seriously!

[@DonJoyce]

The new 2025 regs will not affect you in any material way as a beginner. I recommend to download my free Training Roadmap. There are links under most of my videos. I'm about to get on a plane or i would get it for you

[@sidsandback4831]

Regulations for US drone operators wishing to fly in Canadian airspace should be exactly the same as Canadian drone operators wishing to fly in American airspace. If this is equal, there should be no problem.

[@waelben2000]

I think it makes sense not to allow foreigners to fly drones, in fear of atrocious acts. Because I'm sure someone who's ready to leave a bag in a subway will be willing to fly something over people. If anything in advertised events, I really think they should allow registration and have people's identity figured out. And if possible, have full control of their drones to see if the drone is any heavier than it should be, they can directly shut it down. We always assume the best off of people, but not everyone has the same intentions. American citizens though, Europeans, Koreans, Japanese, and other low risk countries should be able to fly though with a simple registration and a background check. As bad as it sounds, I lived in places where some people will look for any opportunity to cause chaos, and know that mentality very well. I'd say restrictions should be in place, but also they should be reasonable for the rest of us trying to use drones for legit reasons. I fly a drone myself and would love leniency, but not with the way Canada is dealing with the crime issue at this point. Maybe when we get a government that can get their s*** together.

[@00BONG1]

Let's not forget the 400% increase of insurance cost ..

[@threelonedrones5254]

I got an email about that too from my insurance provider last week,.. what gives?

[@RandomPickles]

It is like every time I pick up the drone hobby again, they get wind of it, and try to make it less enjoyable, more restrictive and more expensive. Yay.

[@georgetallon697]

Any updates its now feb 17 2024

[@DonJoyce]

Yes....I've given several updates in recent videos. And another one coming in a couple of days. Hit the notification bell ...

[@filkollinz]

Thank you for presenting all this interminable red tape in a digestible way Don. I’ve been considering taking up recreational drone flying, mainly for video and landscape photography here in beautiful BC, for the last couple of years, but the straight jacket of rules surrounding operating the thing has just sucked all my excitement dry (aside from the fact that it’s not legal to fly in any of the parks here). I’ll look for another way to spend my retirement. All the best.

[@DonJoyce]

I can understand your reticence. Have you considered a sub250g drone like a DJI mini 3 pro?

[@allenfurtado9849]

This is simply ridiculous, Don! Even the feedback program is complicated and redundant ! Why couldn't they just make a new law with simplified requirements for each class of drones? People will get into kore trouble with this already complicated mess! It took me 1 hr just to add comments, and I got bored towards the end. Just too complicated!

[@guyrandom6151]

the question is . can a DJI mini 4 pro be flown over 120m in canada

[@DonJoyce]

Technically yes, but please watch this video for further details of what you can and cannot do (it's for the Mini 3...but exactly the same considerations apply): kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpSTfI2ih9KArtE

[@duanerichardson1669]

Appreciate the work you put into this video, but as of 3 years ago i absolutely do not recognize my government any longer !

[@DonJoyce]

Ok .

[@mbsevans]

48 hours?? And serial numbers are on the box.

[@the1andonly]

It seems to me that the people who write the rules for drones don't actually use drones. Do they have any idea about this technology? The proposal about commercial drone services worries me. I'd like to get into the business of creating videos and photos for small businesses as a sole proprietor. It is simple and possible with the current rules. But if they ad new rules, licensing and other stuff that costs money, then it's going to get much more difficult. The BVLOS thing is also a lot of BS. I do not stare at my drone when recording a subject, but observe the screen. If there is a low flying aircraft nearby I usually interrupt my recording just to make sure I'm nowhere near that plane. I know where my drone is at all times and a visual observer would have to be in my head to communicate that better than the map on my screen. $ 600 for ground school and another exam?? What is it really going to accomplish, other than making us poor?

[@pierre-rose7783]

Wow, that's too much info for me, but what about the cheap drones under $70 from walmart or a toy store that I just want to take an aerial view of my house or fool around in an empty park on a Monday ??

[@DonJoyce]

Drones under 250g escape MOST of the rules. Please do watch this video to ensure you understand what still applies: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpSTfI2ih9KArtE

[@pierre-rose7783]

@@DonJoyce Thank you !

[@jupiter03channel72]

Saya sangat ingin memiliki sebuah drone meskipun itu tidak terlalu perfec, saya ingin membuat video video alam sekitar saya yang saya kira pasti bagus jika videonya diambil dari udara. Saya cukup memperhatikan presentasi ini dan banyak yang saya mengerti darinya dan terimakasih atas unggahan video ini.

[@DonJoyce]

Drone adalah cara yang bagus untuk melihat perspektif yang berbeda di dunia! Terima kasih telah menonton!

[@TheFluffyAviator]

I figure more comments even from the same people is good for a youtube video...but I have a real question does Canada have a drone association for rec users like COPA is to pilots?

[@DonJoyce]

The Drone Pilot Association of Canada (DPAC) represents recreational and small commercial drone and RC aircraft pilots in Canada. We are dedicated to promoting safe drone practices and advocate for reasonable regulations. We meet regularly with Transport Canada (eg yesterday!) To discuss common topics.