Earn Money as a Trained Visual Observer with KR Droneworks!
- krdroneworks
- Nov 10
- 3 min read
The skies are opening up for drone operations in Canada, and with new Transport Canada (TC) RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System) regulations, comes an exciting opportunity to enter the commercial drone industry as a Trained Visual Observer (VO). Are you looking for a new way to leverage your observational skills in a high-tech field? Read on!
The Evolving Role of the Visual Observer Under Transport Canada
While there is no mandatory "Visual Observer Certification," TC's new rules mandate that the VO must be trained to perform their duties safely and effectively. The official definition emphasizes training and operational capacity:
"A person who assists the pilot in command of a remotely piloted aircraft system to maintain visual line of sight with the aircraft, and is capable of seeing the aircraft without the use of visual aids, other than corrective lenses, and communicating with the pilot in command."
The Visual Observer is a crucial crew member, especially for advanced operations Beyond s Visual Line of Sight (BLOS).
Why a Trained VO is Mandatory: EVLOS vs. BVLOS
With the expansion of drone operations, the role of the Visual Observer becomes a core regulatory requirement, demanding specific qualifications that go beyond simply watching the sky.
1. Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS) Operations
What it is: EVLOS allows drone operations where the pilot may temporarily lose direct visual contact with the drone, but a trained Visual Observer maintains continuous visual contact of the area around the drone and relays real-time information to the pilot. This expands the operational radius up to 2 nautical miles.
Mandatory Requirements:
VO Pilot Certificate: The Visual Observer is required to hold an RPAS Pilot Certificate (Basic Operations is the minimum requirement). This ensures the VO has foundational knowledge of airspace, regulations, and aviation safety.
Trained VO: The VO must be trained to assist the pilot in detecting and avoiding air traffic and other hazards.
Communication: Robust, reliable, and timely two-way communication must be maintained between the pilot and the VO at all times.
2. Level 1 Complex (L1C) BVLOS Operations
What it is: L1C low-risk BVLOS operations are when the drone flies so far that neither the pilot nor any Visual Observer can maintain direct visual contact. For lower-risk BVLOS (known as Level 1 Complex Operations), VOs are typically used as a safety mitigation to monitor and clear a specified area of the airspace around the projected flight path and flight area.
Mandatory Requirements:
RPAS Operator Certificate (RPOC): All Level 1 Complex operations must be conducted under the framework of an RPAS Operator Certificate (RPOC), which is held by the business or organization (like KR Droneworks).
VO Training under RPOC: The VO must be trained in accordance with the training program defined in the company's RPOC. This training is specific to the complex flight procedures and communication protocols of that operation, ensuring the VO's performance is integrated into the operation's safety case.
VO Pilot Certificate (Implicit): While the RPOC dictates the specific training, VOs involved in complex operations are often expected to have an understanding regulations, reflecting the higher level of required aviation knowledge.
Your Opportunity with KR Droneworks!
At KR Droneworks, we understand that proper training is the backbone of safe and compliant advanced operations.
KR Droneworks Visual Observer Certification Training Program
We have designed a specific training program to provide the specific training needed to meet the "Trained Visual Observer" mandate under the new TC regulations, with specialized modules covering EVLOS procedures and RPOC-level complexity. This training ensures you can obtain the the training that will help you successfully integrate into complex flight crews.
KR Droneworks will hire Trained VOs from our certification program! We frequently have students and clients across Canada requesting VO assistance. This is your chance to gain invaluable experience, work on exciting projects, and earn a competitive income in a rapidly expanding field.
Ready to Take Flight with a New Career?
If you have excellent observational skills, hold or are willing to obtain a minimum Basic RPAS Pilot Certificate, and are eager to play a vital role in cutting-edge drone operations, then becoming a Trained Visual Observer with KR Droneworks is your next step!
Contact us today to learn more about our Visual Observer Training Program and how you can join the KR Droneworks team!
📞 [613-869-1090]
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