Program Overview

Program Overview

The Advanced Drone Pilot License Training Program is designed for individuals who have completed basic drone certification or gained field experience and are ready to take their skills to the next level. This program prepares students for professional drone operations in complex environments.

Program Details

Credential

The program offers a micro-credential.

Program Length

The program is 40 hours long.

Location

The program is located in Kamloops, B.C.

Tuition

The tuition fee for the program is $3,000.

Program Description

This advanced training program is designed to expand students' skills and opportunities in drone operations. The curriculum meets all of Transport Canada requirements for advanced drone certification, giving students the credentials to fly with confidence and authority.

What You Will Learn

The program delivers in-depth instruction on advanced aviation regulations, airspace classifications, and the authorization process. Students will master advanced flight planning, risk assessment, emergency procedures, and contingency planning, while also gaining essential knowledge in navigation, meteorology, and crew resource management.

Career Opportunities

Advanced certification enables pilots to work in high-demand sectors such as:

• Infrastructure inspection (bridges, towers, utilities)
• Public safety and emergency response
• Industrial and commercial surveying
• Construction monitoring
• Large-scale agriculture and forestry
• Cinematography and media production

Career roles include advanced RPAS pilot, operations supervisor, inspection specialist, aerial surveyor, emergency response operator, and drone program manager.

Advanced Certified Drone Operator Limits

Upon certification, graduates are authorized to:

• Operate in controlled airspace (with NAV CANADA authorization)
• Fly near or over people
• Conduct operations beyond basic license limitations
• Perform advanced site surveys and risk assessments
• Operate at altitudes up to 120 m Above Ground Level (AGL) with expanded operational flexibility

Program Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Demonstrate physical capability and visual acuity for safe operation
• Commit to active participation in both classroom and field training

The program combines classroom learning with immersive field training, simulating real-world scenarios such as operations near people, structures, and within controlled airspace. To build a strong foundation, students begin with four weeks of pre-reading and online ground school. Training is led by experienced drone professionals. The first attempt at both the Transport Canada Advanced RPAS exam and flight review is included in the program.