Transport Canada Phase 2: Everything That Changed on November 4th
A comprehensive breakdown of the Phase 2 regulatory changes that took effect on November 4, 2025 — from BVLOS certification to new drone weight classes and RPOC requirements.
The Biggest Regulatory Shift Since 2019
On November 4, 2025, Transport Canada's Phase 2 amendments to the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) came into force, representing the most significant update to drone regulations since the original RPAS framework launched in June 2019. These changes affect nearly every aspect of commercial and advanced drone operations in Canada. Whether you are a solo operator or managing a fleet, understanding what changed is critical to staying compliant.
The numbers tell the story of how large the Canadian drone ecosystem has become. According to Transport Canada's Drone Zone Issue 5 (December 2025), there are now 116,304 registered drones, 128,888 Basic Pilot Certificate holders, 20,138 Advanced Pilot Certificate holders, 368 active RPAS Operator Certificates (RPOCs), and 1,328 registered flight reviewers across the country.
Level 1 Complex (L1C) BVLOS Certification
Perhaps the most anticipated change is the introduction of Level 1 Complex (L1C) certification for lower-risk Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations. Before Phase 2, any BVLOS flight required a Special Flight Operations Certificate — a lengthy, case-by-case approval process. L1C creates a standardized pathway for routine BVLOS operations, such as linear infrastructure inspections over sparsely populated areas. Operators who obtain L1C certification can conduct approved BVLOS mission types without filing individual SFOC applications, dramatically reducing administrative burden and turnaround time.
New RPOC Requirements and Medium Drones
Phase 2 introduces the RPAS Operator Certificate (RPOC) as a formal requirement for organizations conducting certain categories of commercial operations. The RPOC is essentially an operating certificate for drone companies, requiring documented safety management systems, maintenance programs, and operational procedures. With 368 active RPOCs already issued as of December 2025, adoption is well underway.
The regulations also expand the weight classes. Medium drones weighing between 25 kg and 150 kg can now conduct VLOS operations without an SFOC, provided the operator holds an RPOC and meets the applicable technical standards. This opens the door for heavier-lift platforms used in cargo delivery, industrial inspection, and agricultural spraying to operate under a standardized regulatory framework rather than one-off approvals.
EVLOS, Sheltered Operations, and Microdrone Rules
Phase 2 introduced several new operational categories beyond BVLOS. Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS) operations are now available to Advanced Pilot Certificate holders, allowing flight beyond the pilot's direct sight using visual observers. Sheltered operations permit Advanced pilots to fly inside or near buildings and structures under specific conditions, supporting indoor inspection and confined-space work.
The rules around microdrones at advertised events have also been updated. Small drones under 250 grams can now be flown at certain public events with fewer restrictions, though pilots must still adhere to site-specific safety measures. Updated fee schedules also came into effect, reflecting the expanded regulatory services Transport Canada now provides.
New Technical Standards
Phase 2 establishes new technical standards for RPAS systems used in advanced and complex operations. These standards cover areas including:
- Command and Control Links — Requirements for reliable communication between the pilot and the RPAS, including redundancy standards for BVLOS and EVLOS operations.
- Detect and Avoid — Technical specifications for systems that help RPAS detect and avoid other aircraft, particularly relevant for L1C BVLOS operations.
- System Reliability — Minimum reliability and maintenance standards for airframes, propulsion, and navigation systems used in complex operations.
- Remote Identification — Updated requirements for electronic identification of drones in flight, supporting airspace management and enforcement.
How RPAS WILCO Has Adapted
We updated RPAS WILCO across the board to reflect every Phase 2 change. Pilot profiles now support the new license types and RPOC designations. The drone registry accommodates expanded weight classes, including the new medium category (25-150 kg). Our compliance advisory engine has been rewritten to account for L1C, EVLOS, sheltered, and microdrone rule sets — it will automatically flag issues based on your specific operation type, pilot qualifications, and aircraft configuration.
Mission planning now includes dedicated modes for BVLOS, EVLOS, and sheltered operations, each with tailored checklists, airspace checks, and documentation workflows. If you are operating in Canada's drone ecosystem, RPAS WILCO ensures you are aligned with the new regulatory reality from day one.