Basic, Advanced, or Level 1 Drone Pilot Certificate: Why an Operational Structure Is Always Mandatory

David Leblanc
Sep 25
3 min read

Introduction

Many drone pilots in Canada believe that obtaining a pilot certificate (basic, advanced, or now Level 1) and registering their drone with Transport Canada is enough to be “legal.” This perception is wrong.

The Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs, Part IX) require much more. Even for basic operations, pilots must prove they apply procedures, manage risks, and follow documented standards. In other words, they need an operational structure—adapted to the level of their operations.

And with the new Level 1 Complex Operations Pilot Certificate, the requirement is even clearer: any company wishing to use it must apply for a RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC), which is entirely based on a documented operational structure.

1. Basic operations: limited authority, not a free pass

Basic operations cover simpler flights: visual line of sight (VLOS), away from crowds, in uncontrolled airspace, and under 400 feet (122 m).

But even here, the CARs require the pilot to:

Evaluate risks before every flight,
Demonstrate fitness to fly (rest, health, no substances),
Keep flight records (logbook, maintenance).

Concrete example: fatigue

Before flying, a pilot should complete a fitness checklist: adequate sleep, no alcohol or drugs in the past 12 hours, good mental and physical condition. Keeping this record proves compliance with CARs.

👉 Without such a procedure, a basic pilot has no way of demonstrating they are flying legally if questioned.

2. Advanced operations: more freedom, more paperwork

An advanced certificate allows flights in controlled airspace, closer to people, or in more complex environments. But it requires:

Passing the advanced exam,
Completing a flight review,
Operating only with compliant drones,
Maintaining a more detailed operations manual,
Keeping training and maintenance records.

Here, the operational structure becomes a cornerstone of compliance.

3. The new Level 1 Complex Operations Pilot Certificate

Transport Canada introduced a Level 1 Complex Operations Pilot Certificate to govern higher-risk operations (e.g., BVLOS, heavy payloads, flights near crowds).

⚠️ Important: this certificate alone is not enough to actually use it, a company must apply for a RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC).

The CES is only issued if the organization proves it has a robust operational structure, including:

A detailed operations manual,
Documented safety procedures and emergency plans,
A complete risk management program,
Clear designation of operational roles (operations manager, maintenance lead, etc.).

👉 This marks a turning point: compliance is no longer only about the pilot—it’s about the entire organization.

4. The ROX: built on the operational structure

The RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC) is the equivalent of an “air operator certificate” for drone companies.

It can only be obtained if the organization functions like a professional aviation operator, with:

Manuals and procedures (operations, maintenance, safety),
A risk management system,
A defined organizational structure (who is responsible for what),
Training programs for pilots and crew,
Records and traceability for all flights and activities.

Without this structure, there is no ROC. Without a ROC, Level 1 operations are illegal.

5. Why an operational structure is universal

In basic operations, the structure can be simple: checklists, logbooks, basic emergency procedures.
In advanced operations, it must be more comprehensive: detailed manuals, training records, standardized procedures.
In Level 1 operations, it becomes the foundation of legality: no structure = no CES = no operations.

Conclusion

A pilot certificate (basic, advanced, or Level 1) and drone registration are only the starting point.

In basic operations, an operational structure is required to prove compliance.
In advanced operations, it becomes essential to fly in more complex environments.
In Level 1 operations, it is the key to obtaining the ROC, without which no complex operations are possible.

Final message: Without an operational structure, no pilot or company is truly legal in Canada.

How We Can Help

We are specialists in preparing and drafting operational structures for drone operators. Our expertise ensures that your organization’s manuals, procedures, and compliance systems are fully aligned with Transport Canada’s requirements.

✅ Whether you need to structure your basic operations, strengthen your advanced framework, or prepare for a Level 1 CES application,

we can help your company become compliant and ready to operate legally and safely.