By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks academy, 11 May 26 As we celebrate National Photography Month, the lure of capturing that perfect sunset or a sprawling landscape from 400 feet in the air is stronger than ever. But in Canada, being a "pilot" means more than just mastering the joysticks; it means being a steward of data. While Transport Canada governs where and how you fly, Canadian privacy laws govern what you see and keep. Operating a drone involves a delicate

Does your Drone Launch Site meet the Regulations? If you are operating in the Advanced category in Canada, your takeoff and landing zone is more than just a patch of dirt—it is a regulated aviation environment. Between the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) Part IX, the TC AIM, and the pilot knowledge requirements outlined in TP 15263, Transport Canada expects a level of professional oversight that mirrors traditional bush pilot or helicopter operations. To stay compliant a

By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks Academy, 09 May 26 Welcome to this week’s roundup of the most significant developments in the drone industry. From global market shifts to critical regulatory updates in North America, the first week of May has proven that 2026 is the year of operational maturity and the rise of the "Drone Economy." Global: The $147 Billion Horizon The global drone market continues its aggressive ascent, with new industry forecasts projecting th

By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks Academy, 04 May 26 It’s a common sight on drone forums and social media groups: a new Transport Canada (TC) update drops, and the comments section immediately catches fire. Phrases like "bureaucratic overreach," "money grab," and "killing the industry" dominate the feed. To the solo pilot or small business owner, it can certainly feel that way. You just want to fly, but instead, you're hit with new exam requirements, Level 1 Com

By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks academy, 03 May 26 In the Canadian drone industry, the legal distinction between an "occurrence," an "incident," and an "accident" is a regulatory mandate. With the latest updates to TC AIM-RPAS 3.2.37 and the implementation of Level 1 Complex (L1C) regulations, staying compliant means knowing exactly what must be reported—and to whom. 1. Defining the Terms: Incident vs. Accident The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) Regulatio

By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks Academy, 01 May 26 In the world of professional aviation, there is a saying: "Amateurs practice until they get it right; professionals practice until they can’t get it wrong." At the heart of that professional standard is the humble checklist. To the uninitiated, it might look like a simple piece of paper. But to a seasoned pilot, a drone checklist is a life-saving, gear-protecting, and legal-shielding document that separates a

By Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks Academy, 26 April 26 I In the high-stakes world of aviation—whether you are piloting a commercial jet or operating a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) under Level 1 Complex requirements—technical skill is only half the battle. The other half is managing the human element. The "Dirty Dozen" refers to twelve specific human factors identified by Transport Canada and the FAA that are responsible for the vast majority of flight

By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks Academy, 14 April 26 "Where are the jobs?" It is the #1 question I receive at KR Droneworks. As we move through 2026, the Canadian Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) landscape has shifted from "emerging tech" to "critical infrastructure." The "wild west" days of hobbyists with cameras are over; today’s market belongs to the certified, the specialized, and the professional. In this post, we’ll break down exactly who is hirin

By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks Academy, 4 April 26 (Inspired by a article from Paul van der Wal -UAS Consultant at Drone Flight Company, 31 March 26 The landscape of Canadian drone operations has undergone its most significant transformation since 2019. As of April 2026, Transport Canada (TC) has officially transitioned to the JARUS SORA 2.5 (Specific Operations Risk Assessment) methodology. For the professional drone community, this isn't just a nomenclature

By: Colonel (ret) Bernie Derbach, KR Droneworks Academy, 10 March 26 In the world of Search and Rescue (SAR), the most dangerous thing a pilot can bring to a mission isn't a low battery—it’s a lack of specialized training. "What you don't know that you don't know" is a direct threat to the victim and a massive legal liability for you as the pilot. Professional RPAS SAR training is not a "nice-to-have" add-on; it is an absolute necessity. Here is why: 1. The Fallacy of the "Ma

Calling all Canadian drone pilots! Whether you're a seasoned professional tackling complex operations or just starting with your first drone, navigating the skies safely and legally is paramount. The good news? There's a fantastic array of digital tools at your fingertips designed to make your life easier and your flights compliant. Forget sifting through endless regulations – we've scoured the internet to bring you an extensive list of the best applications for Canadian dr