Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Policy

Definitions:

Advanced Operations: If you meet any one (1) of these conditions, you are conducting advanced operations:

Operating in controlled airspace as defined by Transport Canada

• Operating over bystanders
• Operating within 30 meters (100 feet) of bystanders (measured horizontally)
• Operating less than 3 nautical miles from a certified airport or military aerodrome
• Operating less than 1 nautical mile from a certified heliport

Basic Operations: If you meet all five (5) of these conditions, you are conducting basic operations:

• Operating in uncontrolled airspace
• Operating more than 30 meters (100 feet) of bystanders (measured horizontally)
• Never operating over bystanders
• Operating more than 3 nautical miles from a certified airport or military aerodrome
• Operating more than 1 nautical mile from a certified heliport

If you DO NOT meet any 1 of these conditions, you are deemed to be conducting Advanced Operations.

Pilot: The operator of a remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) whether licensed or not, that is responsible for its safe and effective operation, including monitoring its flight path, responding to emergency situations and complying with applicable laws and regulations.

RPAS: Is a remotely piloted aircraft system, sometimes informally referred to as a drone. It is an unmanned aircraft that is remotely controlled by a pilot on the ground.

Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC): Is a Canadian aviation document issued by Transport Canada to authorize the operation of aircraft for specific purposes that fall outside the normal operating procedures or regulations.

Policy:

1. Authorization: All RPAS operations within Humber premises must be authorized by the Director, Public Safety and Emergency Management (or designate). The RPAS operator must obtain appropriate authorization before any flight operation. Refer to related procedure.
2. Safety: The pilot must ensure that the RPAS is operated in a safe manner, and the operation does not pose any risk to people, property, or other aircraft in the area. The operator must follow all safety guidelines and protocols established by the College and Transport Canada regulations.
3. Privacy: RPAS pilots must respect the privacy of individuals and avoid filming or taking pictures of individuals or their property without their explicit consent. Any video or photographic recording must be conducted in a way that does not infringe on an individual's privacy.
4. Security: RPAS pilots must respect the security protocols of the College and avoid flying over sensitive areas such as residences, restricted areas, and other critical infrastructure without the expressed consent of the Director, Public Safety and Emergency Management (or designate).
5. Maintenance: The RPAS pilot is responsible for ensuring the RPAS is well-maintained, regularly inspected, and free from any defects that may compromise its safety and efficiency.
6. Training: All current and prospective RPAS pilots must complete the required training and licensing in compliance with Transport Canada’s TPE 156263 “Knowledge Requirements for Pilots of Unmanned Air Vehicle Systems” before operating the RPAS.
7. Licensing: All RPAS pilots must be able to show their pilot certificate for either Basic Operations or Advanced Operations, Special Flight Operations Certificate – SFOC if required, and proof of registration with Transport Canada while operating their RPAS.
8. Insurance: College approved pilots shall be named under the college’s insurance policy. All third-party pilots operating a RPAS on College property must provide proof of pilot operators liability insurance in an amount no less than $5 Million per occurrence.
9. Records: The college shall maintain records of all RPAS operations, including authorization, maintenance, and training records, for a minimum of two years. Refer to procedure.
10. Violations: Any violation of this policy or Canadian aviation regulations regarding RPAS operation may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of College privileges or employment. In addition, the RPAS operator may be liable for any damages resulting from the unauthorized or unsafe operation of the RPAS.