That’s not true. With an advanced operations license, you can use the NAV Drone app to apply for permission to fly in most red zones. You’ll likely get automatic approval up to 400 feet, but if you’re too close to an airport, it might take more coordination.
There’s no real way around it. NAV is a reliable app, and if you want to fly around the city, I’d suggest getting a Mini 4 Pro instead. FPV drones aren’t the best choice for city flying anyway. Check the same map with the settings for sub-250g drones—you’ll see a big difference.
Huge difference! I think I’m only limited to 400 feet with the sub-250g drones.
Yep, the ceiling is 120 meters (around 400 feet) by law.
The red zone is just one of your problems. Make sure you really read up on the rules. Maybe consider a sub-250g FPV drone if you want to fly in the city.
I’ve been trying to understand the rules as best I can. What do you mean by ‘one of my problems’?
Basically, there’s almost nowhere in Montreal (or any Canadian city) where you can legally fly a drone over 250g. That’s why reading the laws is so important.
I appreciate the clarification! As someone new to this, I just needed some validation and had no one else to ask.
Don’t get discouraged! I’d recommend going for the advanced license.
That’s not true either. All you need is the advanced operations cert to fly in the red zones. It’s not super hard to get—you need to pass with 80% or higher on a multiple-choice test and then complete an in-person flight review.
If you want to fly FPV and stay under 250g, get a Neo.
You could also get an advanced license and fly with a visual observer.
That’s probably the only way to fly FPV in Montreal, but having a visual observer all the time seems like a hassle.
Yeah, it turns a quick practice session into having to call a friend and drive out somewhere.
Is it like this in most cities? It seems like the basic license really pushes people out of the city if they want to fly.
I’m in Northeast Florida, and it’s the same here. I’m surrounded by airports, hospitals, national parks, and a naval base. You could try joining a local drone club—they often have their own flying spaces with waivers for RC aircraft and drones.
That’s a good tip, thanks! I just wanted to practice in my backyard, but I guess that’s not happening!
Which app are you using to check the zones?
NAV Drone.
If you’re serious about flying, I’d recommend Drone Pilot Canada. It’s about $60, but you get way more info, including NOTAMs. It also lets you create flight plans and logs. It’s super helpful, especially if you go for your advanced license.