Understanding Controlled vs. Uncontrolled Airspace in Canada: A Guide for Drone Pilots
As the use of drones continues to rise in Canada, understanding the differences between controlled and uncontrolled airspace is essential for ensuring safe and legal drone operations. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional pilot, navigating the complexities of Canadian airspace can be challenging. In this post, we'll break down the key differences between controlled and uncontrolled airspace, and provide tips for drone pilots to operate safely and compliantly.
What is Controlled Airspace?
Controlled airspace is a designated area of the sky that is regulated by air traffic control (ATC) authorities. This type of airspace is typically found around airports, where there is a high volume of aircraft traffic. The purpose of controlled airspace is to ensure the safe and orderly flow of air traffic and to prevent collisions between aircraft.
In Canada, controlled airspace is classified into different zones, including Class A, B, C, D, E, and sometimes F. Each class has specific rules and requirements for aircraft entering and operating within the area. For drone pilots, it's crucial to be aware of these classifications and to obtain the necessary permissions before flying in controlled airspace.
NAV Canada Airspace Diagram
Class A Airspace (high-level airspace)
Altitude: Generally, Class A airspace in Canada extends from 18,000 feet above sea level (ASL) up to and including flight level 600 (approximately 60,000 feet ASL).
Use: Primarily used for en-route high-altitude instrument flight rules (IFR) traffic.
Requirements: All aircraft must be operating under IFR, and pilots must have an ATC clearance to enter. Visual flight rules (VFR) flights are not permitted.
Class B Airspace (low-level airspace)
Altitude: Class B airspace is typically found above Class C airspace, usually starting at 12,500 feet ASL or at the base of Class A airspace, and extending up to 18,000 feet ASL.
Use: Used for both IFR and VFR flights.
Requirements: All flights must be under positive air traffic control, and pilots must receive ATC clearance before entering. Pilots must also maintain two-way radio communication with ATC.
Class C Airspace
Altitude: Class C airspace is generally found around busier airports and can extend from the surface to a specified upper limit.
Use: Designed to accommodate a mix of IFR and VFR traffic with a moderate to high volume.
Requirements: Two-way radio communication with ATC is required before entering, and pilots must have an ATC clearance for IFR flights or a transponder for VFR flights.
Class D Airspace
Altitude: Similar to Class C, Class D airspace is typically found around airports but with lower traffic volumes. It extends from the surface to a specified upper limit.
Use: Intended for a mix of IFR and VFR flights with lower traffic volumes than Class C.
Requirements: Two-way radio communication with ATC is required before entering. ATC clearance is required for IFR flights. VFR flights don’t require ATC clearance but VFR aircraft have to establish radio contact with ATC.
Class E Airspace
Altitude: Class E airspace can be found at various altitudes and is often used as a buffer or transition zone between other airspace classes. It is also used around airports with no towers.
Use: Primarily for IFR operations, but VFR flights are also permitted.
Requirements: No specific communication or clearance requirements for VFR flights. IFR flights must have an ATC clearance and maintain two-way radio communication with ATC.
It's important for pilots to understand the characteristics and requirements of each airspace class to ensure safe and compliant flight operations.
What is Uncontrolled Airspace?
Uncontrolled airspace, on the other hand, is not regulated by air traffic control authorities. This is called Class G and is a type of airspace generally found in rural or remote areas, away from busy airports. Sometimes, Class F airspace can be uncontrolled as well. While uncontrolled airspace is less regulated, drone pilots are still required to adhere to certain rules and regulations to ensure safety.
How can Class F be both controlled and uncontrolled?
Great question. This type of airspace is often established for specific activities or purposes, such as military operations, glider flying, parachuting, or hang gliding. Understanding the nuances of Class F airspace is important for drone pilots to ensure safe and compliant flights.
CYR (Restricted Areas): These are areas where flights are restricted due to potential hazards or security concerns. Entry into CYR areas is usually prohibited without special authorization and is considered controlled airspace.
CYD (Dangerous Areas): This is usually used for CYR areas over international waters.
CYA (Advisory Areas): These areas are designated for specific activities like gliding or parachuting. On VNC VFR charts CYA zones will have a letter to indicate what kind of activity is taking place. Letters include A – aerobatics, F – aircraft testing, H – hang gliding, M – military, P – parachuting, S – soaring, and T – training. While entry is not strictly prohibited, pilots are advised to exercise caution and be aware of the activities taking place. CYA is considered uncontrolled airspace.
In uncontrolled airspace, pilots have more freedom to operate their drones without the need for ATC clearance. However, they must still follow the basic rules set by Transport Canada, such as flying below 400 feet, maintaining a visual line of sight with the drone, and avoiding restricted areas.
Tips for Flying in Controlled and Uncontrolled Airspace
Check Airspace Classifications: Before planning your flight, use aviation maps or drone apps like Nav Canada, or the Canadian Airspace Viewer to check the airspace classification of the area. This will help you determine whether you're in controlled or uncontrolled airspace.
Obtain Permissions: If you're planning to fly in controlled airspace, you'll need to obtain prior authorization from the relevant air traffic control authorities. Submit your request using Nav Canada, and make sure to submit your request in advance of your planned flight. Most of the time, for low-risk operations, your request will be submitted right away. Submitting a request helps Nav Canada keep track of who and what is operating in that airspace, and will notify you of any other drones flying in your area.
Follow Transport Canada Regulations: Regardless of the airspace classification, always adhere to the rules and regulations set by Transport Canada for drone operations. If you have a Basic License, you must remain in uncontrolled airspace. If you have an Advanced License, you are permitted to fly in controlled airspace, but you still must adhere to regulations. Remember that all drone pilots must give way to manned aircraft at all times!
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any changes to airspace regulations or restrictions in your area. This will help you avoid any potential violations and ensure safe flying. Use Nav Canada to check NOTAMs and to get updates on the area you are flying in.
Use Common Sense and Keep Your Eyes and Ears Open: Always prioritize safety when flying your drone. Avoid flying near airports, helipads, or in areas with heavy aircraft traffic. Use a listening watch to be aware of other aircraft that may be approaching. Make sure you are constantly scanning your surroundings, and have your emergency procedures easily accessible.
By understanding the differences between controlled and uncontrolled airspace and following the appropriate guidelines, drone pilots can safely and legally enjoy the skies above Canada. Whether you're capturing breathtaking aerial photography or conducting commercial drone operations, knowledge of airspace regulations is key to a successful flight.
Happy and safe flying!
-The FlySmart Team
