Mandatory Pre-Flight Site Survey

In plain language

Before you fly, you must survey the area to make sure it is safe. You need to check the airspace class, NOTAMs, your planned flight paths, nearby airports or heliports, obstacles like power lines or buildings, and the weather forecast.

Requirement as structured

A pilot must conduct a site survey before commencing a remotely piloted aircraft system operation to determine if the operational volume is suitable.

Original regulatory text

No pilot shall operate a remotely piloted aircraft system unless, before commencing the operation, they determine that the operational volume is suitable by conducting a site survey that takes into account the following factors: (a) the type of airspace and any requirements applicable to the flight geography, including any specified in a NOTAM; (b) the altitudes and routes to be used for approach, take-off, launch, landing or recovery; (c) the proximity of other aircraft operations; (d) the proximity of airports, heliports and other aerodromes; (e) the location and height of obstacles, including wires, masts, buildings, cell phone towers and wind turbines; (f) the predominant weather and environmental conditions and the weather forecast for the duration of the flight;

Applies when

country

Canada

regulatory category

General