Drone Pilots in Canada Face New Rules
Transport Canada has announced new rules for “remotely piloted aircraft systems,” commonly known as drones. The rules are effective June 1.
The new rules have two main categories—basic or advanced—depending on the distance from bystanders and controlled airspace. For the most part, farmers would fit into the advanced category. For both categories, every drone pilot will be required to:
- Register and mark the drone with its registration number;
- Pass an online exam and get a pilot certificate;
- Be a minimum age of 14 for basic and 16 for advanced operations’
- Stay below an altitude of 122 meters (400 feet) above ground level; and
- Stay away from air traffic.
Among costs associated with the new rules will be a registration fee, exam fee, flight review by Transport Canada, advanced operations certificate, and optional training. Drone pilots who fail to comply with the rules could face fines up to $3,000.
Source: RealAgriculture