Pilots Can Fly Closer To Airports, Buildings And People

Transport Canada has relaxed its rules for hobbyists flying unmanned aircraft, but has been pretty quiet about doing so.

CTV News reports that, according to Transport Canada, the new rules were put in place July 17, but a search of their website did not turn up a news release or other announcement of the change other than a posting of the rules.

The changes apply to drones that weigh between 250 grams (approx. 9 ounces) and 35 kilograms (approx. 77 pounds being flown for recreational purposes.

According to the new rules, a hobbyist drone pilot may fly within 90 m (approx. 295 feet) above the ground or lower. The aircraft must stay:

• at least 30 m (approx. 100 feet) away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your drone weighs more than 250 g up to 1 kg (approx. 2.2 pounds))
• at least 75 m (approx. 246 feet) away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your drone weighs more than 1kg up to 35 kg)
• at least 5.5 km (approx. 3.4 miles) from aerodromes (any airport, seaplane base, or areas where aircraft take-off and land)
• at least 1.8 km (about a mile) away from heliports or aerodromes used exclusively by helicopters outside of controlled or restricted airspace
• at least 9 km (approx. 5.6 miles) away from a natural hazard or disaster area
• away from areas where it could interfere with police or first responders

The aircraft can be flown only during the day and not in clouds, and remain within the operator's sight at all times. It must be within 500 m (approx. 1,640 feet) of the operator or closer, and be clearly marked with the owner's name, address and telephone number.

Violators of the rules can face fines of up to $3,000 (Canadian)

(Source: Transport Canada and as cited. Image from file)

FMI: www.tc.gc.ca/media/documents/ca-opssvs/Flying_for_fun_EN-V6.pdf