Drone use

Drone use near airports is restricted and must follow rules set by Transport Canada. We recommend that you: 

• learn the rules before you fly your drone 
• understand how to fly your drone safely and legally

Stay clear of airports

In general, you must not fly a drone within 3 nautical miles (5.6 kilometres) of an airport unless you have proper authorization.

It is illegal to operate a drone in a way that could interfere with aircraft or airport operations.

Always stay well clear of:

• aerodromes and airports, including all buildings, runways and taxiways
• active aircraft 

Before you fly

Before flying your drone, check where you are and what rules apply.

Use the National Research Council Canada Drone Site Selection Tool. This tool shows where you can safely and legally fly based on your location and drone type.

Flying near airports or in controlled airspace

If you want to fly closer to an airport or in controlled airspace, you may need additional approvals.

This can include:

• a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) from Transport Canada
• permission to fly in airspace controlled by NAV Canada
• following the rules in the Canadian Aviation Regulations, Part IX - Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), from Transport Canada

These requirements usually apply to advanced or commercial drone operations.