Your Guide to the RPAS Flight Review: What to Expect and How to Prepare
If you are pursuing your Advanced Operations or Level 1 Complex Operations Pilot Certificate, one of the final and most important steps is successfully completing a Flight Review. This assessment ensures that you can safely and competently operate a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) in accordance with Transport Canada regulations.
Why the Flight Review Matters
Under Transport Canada regulations, completing a Flight Review is mandatory to obtain:
An Advanced Operations Pilot Certificate, or
A Level 1 Complex Operations Pilot Certificate
The review verifies that you can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world flight operations, demonstrating safe procedures, smart decision-making, and regulatory compliance.
What the Flight Review Assesses
During your review, a licensed Flight Reviewer will evaluate your ability to:
Safety control the RPAS in takeoffs, landings and maneuverings
Conduct a thorough site survey and risk assessment
Complete required documentation and checklists
Demonstrate proper aircraft inspection and setup
Maintain situational awareness
Follow appropriate emergency procedures
Operate in accordance with applicable Canadian Aviation Regulations
The focus of a flight review is to make sure you are fully able to fly an RPAS under Transport Canada Regulations safely and that you feel confident with your skills.
Preparing for Success
At FlySmart, we understand that any form of testing, including a Flight Review, can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to make the process straightforward, supportive, and help you build your confidence. We have trained professional flight reviewers ready to help and support you throughout the process.
Pre-Flight Review Preparation Course
To help you feel fully prepared, we offer an optional Pre-Flight Review Preparation Course designed to set you up for success.
This course includes:
One-on-one instruction
Direct access to experienced lead instructors
Hands-on practice completing documentation and checklists
Supervised flight practice
Personalized feedback to strengthen your readiness
Available online (includes everything besides hands-on training with the drone) or in person, this preparation course is structured to ensure you approach your Flight Review with clarity, competence, and confidence.
Flight Review Locations Across Canada
FlySmart works with trusted Flight Reviewers across Canada to make the process accessible and convenient.
A current list of review locations is available on our website. If you do not see your area listed, we encourage you to contact us, as we may be able to coordinate a Flight Reviewer in your region.
Benefits of Training with FlySmart - Flight Review Discount
If you have completed an Advanced Operations or Level 1 Complex Operations course with FlySmart, you are eligible for a 25% discount on your FlySmart Flight Review.
Ready to Take Flight?
Your Flight Review is a significant milestone in advancing your RPAS career. We want to support you with proper preparation and the right help, to allow you to focus on demonstrating the skills you’ve worked hard to develop.
If you’re ready to book your Flight Review or would like to enroll in our preparation course, our team is here to help you take the next step with confidence!
