FAQ: Canadian BVLOS Operations

Q: Can I operate BVLOS without a spotter?

A: Not legally. Transport Canada requires a spotter for all BVLOS operations. The spotter is a mandatory crew member, not optional.

Q: What if I program autonomous waypoints? Do I still need a spotter?

A: Yes. Autonomy doesn't eliminate the spotter requirement. The spotter monitors the autonomous flight for anomalies (unexpected maneuvers, loss of signal, equipment failure).

Q: How far can I fly BVLOS?

A: No legal distance limit once BVLOS is approved. Practical limit: radio range (typically 5–10 km for licensed systems, 1–2 km for unlicensed). Agricultural operators routinely fly 20+ km missions with licensed radios.

Q: Do I need ATC clearance for BVLOS in uncontrolled airspace?

A: No ATC coordination needed for uncontrolled airspace (Class D and below). But you must file a NOTAM 48 hours in advance, and ATC can issue temporary airspace restrictions if manned traffic is expected.

Q: What if manned aircraft appear during my BVLOS mission?

A: Spotter calls it out. Pilot immediately descends below 500 feet (standard conflict avoidance). If descent isn't possible, abort mission and execute return-to-home.

Q: Can I modify my drone's antenna or increase radio power for greater range?

Pre-Flight BVLOS Checklist

Print and use before every BVLOS flight:

Personnel

  • [ ] Pilot: Level 1 Complex certified, current medical
  • [ ] Spotter: RPAS Pilot certified, briefed on visual monitoring plan
  • [ ] Support: Emergency contact informed of mission

Equipment

  • [ ] Primary radio functional, tested at 1+ km range
  • [ ] Backup radio with fresh batteries
  • [ ] Telemetry display showing real-time updates
  • [ ] GPS lock acquired (minimum 8 satellites)
  • [ ] Battery: voltage and balance verified

Airspace

  • [ ] NAV CANADA airspace classification confirmed (Class D/C/B)
  • [ ] NOTAM filed (if Class C/B)
  • [ ] ATC coordination completed (if required)
  • [ ] No TFRs (Temporary Flight Restrictions) active

Flight Plan

  • [ ] Route mapped with Google Earth or mapping tool
  • [ ] RTH altitude set above all obstacles (safety margin: +20 meters)
  • [ ] Waypoints programmed and verified
  • [ ] Pre-flight validation run (simulator, if available)

Weather

  • [ ] Wind speed < maximum limit (typically 25 knots for consumer drones)
  • [ ] Visibility > 5 km
  • [ ] No precipitation in forecast
  • [ ] Temperature within operating range (typically -10 to +45 °C)

Communication

  • [ ] Pilot and spotter communication tested
  • [ ] Hand signals established (if radio fails)
  • [ ] Emergency abort signal agreed upon
  • [ ] Backup communication method available

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    Summary

    BVLOS is the next frontier of Canadian drone commerce. It enables utility companies, agricultural operators, and infrastructure inspectors to deploy drones at scale. To operate BVLOS legally:

    1. Get Level 1 Complex Pilot Certificate (12–16 weeks)
    2. Obtain RPOC authorization with BVLOS rider (4–6 weeks)
    3. Establish communication infrastructure (licensed radio, NOTAM filing)
    4. Train your spotter crew
    5. Follow pre-flight procedures religiously

    Cost: costs vary depending on provider and course level–$3,000 in training and licensing Return: One BVLOS infrastructure inspection contract (varies depending on provider and course level) pays for all the training.

    Last updated: 2026-04-08 | Authority: Transport Canada CAP 101-2, CARS Part IX | Next review: 2026-07-08