SAR Drone Tech 2

Advance your SAR capabilities with hands-on training in BVLOS, night operations, and thermal imaging—designed to elevate drone teams to the next level of operational readiness.

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Take your drone operational skills to the next level with SAR Drone Tech 2. This course is an advanced in-person, hands-on training program tailored for Search & Rescue teams and first responders operating in life-critical missions. This course builds on the foundational knowledge from SAR Drone Tech 1, aligning with Transport Canada Advanced Regulations and preparing participants for complex drone missions in real-world scenarios.

Participants will develop advanced skills for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and night operations, thermal imaging, and hazard assessment. Through practical exercises and real-world simulations, participants will also have access to Nova to further master data analysis tools with thermal and colour imaging, live-streaming, and mission planning. The course culminates in a comprehensive final evaluation during a simulated SAR mission.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Advanced SAR Techniques: Master thermal imaging to assist in locating individuals in dense terrain or low-visibility conditions and conduct hazard assessments with precision

  • BVLOS Operations: Plan and execute Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) missions, utilizing advanced navigation, safety protocols, and geospatial tools

  • Night Operations: Perform safe and effective nighttime missions with thermal imaging, lighting considerations, and low-visibility navigation strategies

  • Data Analysis Tools: Leverage Nova’s software capabilities for advanced mission planning, live-streaming, and geospatial analysis, optimizing BVLOS operations and SAR mission outcomes

  • Hands-On Simulations: Engage in realistic SAR mission simulations, adapting to dynamic challenges like adverse weather, unauthorized airspace entry, and evolving rescue needs

  • Regulatory Alignment: Operate under Transport Canada Advanced Regulations and prepare for SFOC-compliant missions for life-critical emergencies

  • ROC-A Certification: Earn your Restricted Operators Certificate - Aeronautical (ROC-A) radio license as part of the course

  • DAA-VO Training: Complete Detect and Avoid Visual Observer (DAA-VO) training, a requirement for SFOC applications

  • NIST Training Lanes: Gain hands-on experience using the NIST Training Lanes system, with provided documentation to set up your own lanes for ongoing team training

  • Practical Assessment: Participate in SAR mission simulations that meet and exceed Transport Canada Flight Review requirements. All instructors are certified flight reviewers, and this course counts as the student’s advanced flight review or a 2-year recency review for active pilots

Pre-Requisites:

  • Completion of SAR Drone Tech 1

  • Transport Canada Advanced Certification Exam (flight review not required)

  • Minimum of 5 flight hours per pilot

This Course is Ideal for… 

  • SAR teams and first responders seeking to expand capabilities for BVLOS, night operations, and thermal imaging in life-critical scenarios

  • Organizations aiming to implement advanced drone programs aligned with Transport Canada regulations and best practices

Participants will engage in practical exercises and simulations that replicate real-world SAR challenges, culminating in a comprehensive evaluation during a simulated SAR mission. SAR Drone Tech 2 meets and exceeds standards from NFPA 2400, EMCR Provincial Operating Guidelines (POGs), and best practices from Transport Canada, Parks Canada, and BC Parks.

Continue your journey toward mastering advanced drone operations for SAR missions!

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Why Choose FlySmart?

Built for Real-World Emergency Response

Our SAR Drone Technician Program is designed by emergency responders, for emergency responders. Developed from over 140 operational SAR deployments, each course is grounded in lived experience—ensuring that the training reflects the real demands of the field, not just theory.

Standards-Aligned & Mission-Ready

Our courses exceed the expectations of NFPA 2400, EMCR Provincial Operating Guidelines, and Transport Canada regulations. Whether you're integrating drones into your SAR team for the first time or expanding into BVLOS and thermal operations, we prepare you to meet compliance standards with confidence.

Fresh & Relevant Curriculum

From VLOS daytime missions to advanced thermal imaging and night operations, our training covers everything SAR teams need to deploy RPAS safely and effectively. Participants leave with practical tools, mission planning skills, and confidence to execute drone-supported searches and assessments.

Program Scalability & Team Empowerment

Whether you're launching a new SAR drone team or strengthening an existing one, our training supports the creation of mission-ready teams. With practical tools and scalable learning, you’ll build the confidence and capacity to lead successful operations.