Why would you think the Mini is exempt? Just because it’s under 250 grams doesn’t mean you can fly in controlled airspace...it’s from 0 feet agl and up.
First: MY MISTAKE - I live within the
controlled airspace of the Ottawa Airport - not restricted airspace.
Having cleared that up ...
Heavens no, I am not exempt at all!
The Canadian Aviation Regulations (SOR/96-433) clearly states the following:
900.06 No person shall operate a remotely piloted aircraft system in such a reckless or negligent manner as to endanger or be likely to endanger aviation safety or the safety of any person.
Further regulations apply only to small Remote Piloted Aircraft (those weighing 250 grams to 25 kilograms inclusive), and spell out specific requirements related to operator certification and the registration and operation of that class of aircraft.
Literally, none of the regulations after 900.06 apply to microdrones (those weighing less than 250g).
Transport Canada (TC), on the drone safety site, says that microdrones (drones weighing less than 250 grams) MUST: avoid emergency sites and restricted airspace; and follow provincial, territorial and municipal rules. (these typically pertain to park sites and other public spaces)
Please note that controlled airspace (classes A through E) is not the same as restricted (class F) airspace.
I live within the controlled airspace of the airport, and I go through the unlocking/permission process when I fly above my yard.
TC says I SHOULD: not fly a microdrone above 400 feet AGL; maintain VLOS; avoid advertised events; and avoid airports. Note that this is in contrast to the Part IX regulations for small Remote Piloted Aircraft specifically prohibit these activities unless covered by a Special Flight Operations Certificate.
Although it doesn't require unlocking and I don't go as high, the same rule: (
900.06) applies to the Tello as it does to the Mavic Mini or any other microdrone.
I also don't fly the Mavic Mini outdoors with the prop guards attached, as that increases the takeoff weight above 250g - the drone would have to be registered and - when the takeoff weight goes above 250g it would be subject to all of the Part IX regulations. So, I only fly it naked (the Mavic Mini, that is, not me - enough people point and laugh when they see me, I don't need to add to it).
My current certificate (Basic) does not allow me to fly my Mavic Pro or Inspire within controlled airspace. When I need to fly within controlled airspace, my interim go-to is the mini (sometimes the Tello, just for fun).
You can find more information at
the Transport Canada Drone Safety site.
I hope that this has cleared up any confusion I caused by accidentally typing restricted when I mean controlled.
The bottom line: I attempt, at all times, to operate my remotely piloted aircraft systems in such a manner as to avoid endangering or be likely to endanger aviation safety or the safety of any person.