NAV CANADA has launched a significant update to its NAV Drone app, expanding the range of operations available to drone pilots across Canada. The upgrade comes into effect alongside the second phase of Transport Canada’s 2025 drone regulations and marks another step forward in safely and efficiently integrating drones into Canadian airspace.
The new update enables drone pilots to conduct additional types of complex operations, including low-risk beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) flights in uncontrolled airspace, sheltered operations close to structures, and extended visual line-of-sight (EVLOS) with the support of certified visual observers. The app now also supports medium weight (25kg-150kg) drone operations, unlocking opportunities for new commercial applications such as precision agriculture and infrastructure inspection.
“These enhancements to NAV Drone are about more than keeping pace with regulatory change – they are about unlocking the economic potential of Canada’s skies,” said David Sheppard, Vice President and Chief Technology and Information Officer at NAV CANADA. “By enabling more complex and commercially relevant drone operations, we are helping Canadian businesses innovate, create jobs, and strengthen Canada’s position in the global drone economy.”
“NAV CANADA continues to work closely with Transport Canada and industry partners to ensure the safe, secure and efficient integration of drones into the airspace system,” said Alan Chapman, Director RPAS Traffic Management at NAV CANADA. “This update is a central part of the company’s broader Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Traffic Management (RTM) program, which will underpin Canada’s transition toward a more modern and flexible air traffic management framework.”
First introduced in 2021, NAV Drone has become the platform for Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operators seeking authorization to fly in controlled airspace. More than 90,000 users are now registered on the app, with nearly one-third joining since 2024 alone.
