What are Basic operations
When flying under basic operations:
- your drone operating weight is no more than 25 kg
- you fly your drone where you can always see it.
- you fly your drone more than 30 metres (100 feet) horizontally from any person
- you fly your drone in uncontrolled airspace
- you fly your drone more than 5.6 kilometers (3 nautical miles) from the center of a certified airport
- you fly your drone more than 1.9 kilometers (1 nautical mile) from the center of a heliport
If you do not meet any of the above conditions, you are conducting advanced or complex operations.
For example, let’s say you fly your drone in uncontrolled airspace but less than 30 metres (100 feet) horizontally from any person. This operation is advanced because you’re flying less than 30 metres (100 feet) horizontally from any person even if you’re in uncontrolled airspace.
You will need permission from the Department of National Defence to fly less than 5.6 kilometers (3 nautical miles) from the center of a military aerodrome.
Fly within the operational limits of your drone and respect weather requirements for the operation. Always survey the area where you will fly.
What you need to fly Basic operations
You must have and be able to show your Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations and proof of drone registration when you fly.
How to get a drone Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations
You need to be 14 years old to get a Basic certificate.
To get your Basic operations certificate, you need to take the online exam.
If you pass the Small Basic Exam, you will be issued a Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations. You can download and print your certificate through the Drone Management Portal.
Your pilot certificate does not expire, but you need to keep your skills up-to-date.
Fees and service standards
| Service | Fee | Service standard |
|---|---|---|
|
Exam – Small Basic |
|
Online service available immediately |
|
Issuance of Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations |
Included in exam fee |
Issued immediately after passing the exam |
Learn more about the Service Fees Act.
Penalties
You could face serious penalties, including fines and/or jail time, if you break the rules.
We also investigate reports of unsafe flying. We may involve local police if you break other laws.
Fines for individuals
- up to $1,000 for flying without a drone pilot certificate
- up to $3,000 for flying where you are not allowed
- up to $3,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk
- up to $5,000 for flying unregistered or unmarked drones
Fines for corporations
- up to $5,000 for flying without a drone pilot certificate
- up to $15,000 for flying where you are not allowed
- up to $15,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk
- up to $25,000 for flying unregistered or unmarked drones
If you break more than one rule, you could receive multiple penalties.