Regulatory Considerations: Flying a 150kg+ Drone in Canada

Why 150kg Matters

In Canada, 150kg is the critical weight limit for drones. Anything below this is generally covered by the Advanced Operations certificate and Special Flight Operations Certificates (SFOCs). Anything above requires aircraft-level certification and far stricter oversight.

Implications for Agricultural Drones

Drones such as the DJI Agras T100 (with full payload and equipment) can exceed 150kg. This places them into a category where:

• Standard Advanced Drone Pilot Certificates are not sufficient

• Transport Canada approval is required for each operation

• Operators must comply with rules similar to those for manned aircraft

Key Regulatory Requirements

1. Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC): Mandatory for any drone over 25kg, but stricter for 150kg+.

2. Airworthiness Certification: Transport Canada may require the drone to meet certain design and maintenance standards.

3. Operational Risk Assessment: Proof of safety procedures for flight, refueling, maintenance, and emergency handling.

4. Pilot Training: Advanced RPAS certification plus potential additional training for heavy-drone operations.

5. Insurance & Liability: Higher coverage levels due to increased risks and potential damages.

Challenges for Farmers & Contractors

• Time: SFOCs for heavy drones can take months for approval.

• Cost: Certification, insurance, and compliance costs rise sharply above 150kg.

• Availability: Few Canadian service providers are currently authorized to operate drones in this weight class.

Alternatives

• T25 and T50 Agras drones remain under the 150kg threshold with payloads, making them easier to deploy under Advanced Operations.

• Partnering with an authorized contractor may be the fastest path for large farms wanting T100-scale spraying.

SpeedyDrone’s Take

Flying a 150kg+ drone in Canada isn’t impossible—but it requires patience, paperwork, and planning. For most farmers, the T25 or T50 provide more accessible solutions. The T100 remains an option for those prepared to invest in compliance and certification.

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