Become a UAV pilot
Founded in 1968, CQFA has been training UAV pilots since 2007, back when light UAVs were mostly used for research in agriculture, and as flying cameras by visionary motion picture producers. Since 2013, UAVs applications have been growing in popularity and include geomatics, agriculture, mining, land surveying, engineering, environment, law enforcement, along with the ever-increasing use of UAVs by the movie/advertisement industry. Despite the perceived growth however, most Canadian UAV operators still have difficulty realizing operational profits.
UAVs share the blue skies with airplanes and helicopters. and as such, UAV pilots must study the Canadian aviation system and be able to quickly determine the legality and safety of their operations. In Canada, there is no such thing as a UAV License, or UAV Permit, of any kind. UAV flying requires an authorization from TC Canada for almost every flight. This authorization is a certificate is called S.F.O.C. For a pilot to be issued a SFOC, he/she must know the aviation system, airspace, aviation regulation, etc. Taking a structured training program is not mandatory in Canada. UAV pilots may study on their own, follow structured programs, or only take courses on specific topics and self-study others. Canadian UAV training organizations are never certified, licensed or otherwise recognized by Transport Canada. UAV pilots are always liable for the inconveniences, harm, or damage their UAVs may cause.
CQFA offers a variety of training solutions for recreational and professional UAV pilots, such as an introduction to the Canadian regulatory framework, a complete ground school, several advanced workshops, applied human factors and risk management courses and in collaboration with a renowned operator, hands-on practical courses.
Learners study at their own pace. All begin with a rapid overview of the regulatory framework of light UAV flying in Canada. This 3-hour, animated introduction allows learners to make direct connections between the Canadian regulatory environment and operational requirements, as well as with proven the human factors. Pilots then complement their training with advanced topics covering the six vectors stated above, beginning with the current regulatory situation. The complete path meets Transport Canada's knowledge requirement in TP15263E.
Theory is essentially studied using CQFA's award-winning eLearning platform before the participants attend two classroom lectures. Classroom Day A and B cover the theory of flight and meteorological messages. All your questions are answered too!. Learners may attend each day as they wish, at no extra cost. At the end of Classroom Day B, participants may write CQFA's theory exam, as well as the Industry Canada's Canadian Restricted Radio Operator exam.
About the CQFA
CQFA is one of the oldest aviation colleges in Canada and a founding member of Collegiate Aviation Canada. For 48 years, CQFA has been training professional airline, bush, and helicopter pilots at its main campus located at St-Honore Airport. CQFA's Industry Service Department located near Trudeau International Airport in Montreal, has been training aviation managers, inspectors, and operators from all around the world, including UAV pilots from North and South America. CQFA's faculty are all seasoned, career professors.
Registration and Useful Information
CQFA's UAV training always takes a break during the hard winter months. We use this time to review and update all training material, as well as the training objectives. After all, this is an ever-changing industry. Last year's solution isn't always the best option for this year. Some of the titles listed below will only be available later this spring.
Have a look at the FAQ .
If you are using an Apple mobile device (ex. iPad) on IOS10,
you must check the "Keep me signed in" box when loging in.