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Yifei Zhao

operations manager

Make Your Voice Count!

Canada’s drone regulations are changing


On June 8, 2026, Transport Canada released a new Notice of Proposed Amendment (NPA) outlining potential updates to Canada’s drone regulations. Whether you’re a recreational or commercial drone pilot or simply interested in the future of the industry, now is the time to understand what’s being proposed and make your voice count.

Why This Matters?

Canada’s drone regulations are changing


Canada’s drone regulations continue to evolve as technology advances. New regulations aim to support Canada’s maturing drone industry by improving enforcement, streamlining operations and building a stronger foundation for future growth.


Before new regulations become law, Transport Canada follows a structured consultation process that includes multiple proposal and public feedback stages. This consultation process gives stakeholders an opportunity to clarify areas, identify concerns, suggest improvements and help shape the future of the Canadian drone industry.

Canadian Drone Regulations at a Glance

Canada’s drone regulations are changing


As Canada’s drone industry continues to mature, the 2026 NPA builds on more than a decade of regulatory development. Here’s a recap of Canadian Drone Regulation Milestones.

2013

Commercial Drone Operations Require SFOC

Processing time: 5-40 business days. Valid for the project duration only.

2013

2015

Improved SFOC for Commercial Drone Operations

Processing time: 20 business days. Can be valid for up to one year.

2015

2019

CARs Part IX and Drone Pilot Certification

System-based processing for most operations. Pilot Certificates do not expire, but a two-year recency requirement applies.

2019

2025

Level 1 Complex

Introduced Level 1 Complex Operations, including low-risk BVLOS under the new framework.

2025

2026

Current Notice of Proposed Amendment

Proposed Next Phase of Canada’s drone regulatory framework.

2026

Key Proposed Regulatory Changes

The current NPA focuses on three major initiatives


1. Remote Identification

Transport Canada is proposing Remote Identification requirements for drone operations. Remote ID would allow drones to electronically broadcast identification and location information while in flight.

Potential Benefits

  • Improved enforcement and accountability
  • Streamlined operational planning and flight tracking
  • Better integration of drones into Canadian airspace

Potential Concerns

  • Public visibility of drone pilot locations
  • Privacy considerations
  • Safety concerns for operators

2. Community · Based Organizations

Transport Canada is proposing to recognize Community – Based Organizations (CBOs) that could support recreational drone operations through approved operating procedures and community oversight.


Based on the current proposal, Community – Based Organizations would primarily support recreational drone operations, with a focus on activities outside of CARs Part IX.

3. Designated Drone Airspace

The proposal also introduces the concept of designated airspace where drone operations could be managed under specific operating rules.

Further classifying lower-level airspace has been a long-standing topic within the industry. When implemented, it will help simplify drone flight planning, especially where drone operations can be more clearly separated from crewed aircraft.

Join the Discussion

Your voice matters!


Join our discussion to review the proposed amendments, discuss their potential impacts, answer questions and gather community feedback for a joint submission to Transport Canada.

Information Session

Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026

Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EST

Format: 1pm – 2pm Zoom and In-Person Info Session | 2pm – 3pm Optional In-Person Discussion @ AlteX droneHUB

Whether you’re an experienced commercial operator, recreational pilot, business owner, educator or simply interested in Canada’s drone industry, we invite you to join the discussion and help shape the future of Canada’s drone industry!

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Canada’s Drone Regulations Are Changing!

On June 8, 2026, Transport Canada released a new Notice of Proposed Amendment (NPA) outlining potential updates to Canada’s drone regulations. Whether you’re a recreational or commercial drone pilot or simply interested in the future of the industry, now is the time to understand what’s being proposed and make your voice count.

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