If you are performing special flight operations, you may need to apply for a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) or may be able to conduct your operation under an exemption. Additional exemptions, which are not listed here, may be found at Exemptions to the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs).
On this page
Operations requiring an SFOC or which may be conducted under an exemption
These staff instructions provide Inspectors with the information, procedures, and guidelines necessary to process an application and issue a Special Flight Operations Certificate. These may also be helpful to pilots, aviation personnel, and airshow event organizers. Exemptions may exist for some operations that usually require an SFOC.
Drones
Special Aviation Event– Air Shows
- Conduct of a Special Aviation Event – Air Show - The review and processing of an application for a Special Flight Operations Certificate
Training
- Staff Instructions - Pilot Recurrent Training Programs - CAR 421.05(2)(c) - The review and processing of a request for approval of a Pilot Recurrent Training Program
- Exemption 421.88 for persons applying for a Flight Instructor Rating — Ultra-light Aeroplane
Aerobatic manoeuvres
- Staff Instructions - Aerobatic maneouvres below 2000' AGL - The review and processing of an application for a Special Flight Operations Certificate
Balloons
- Staff Instructions - Balloons with Fare-Paying Passengers - The review and processing of an application for a Special Flight Operations Certificate
- Permanently-Tethered Balloons
- Exemption 605.20 for conducting tethered balloon operations at night
Parachuting
- Staff Instructions - Conduct Parachute Descents Over or Into a Built-Up Area or an Open-Air Assembly of Persons - The review and processing of an application for a Special Flight Operations Certificate
- Staff Instructions - Parachuting in Controlled Airspace - The review and processing of an application for a Special Flight Operations Certificate
- Exemption 602.26 for persons conducting parachute descents and pilots-in-command of aircraft operated for the purpose of conducting parachute descents
NOTAMs
Some operations may require a Notice to Airman (NOTAM).