Why do you have to go through a flight reviewer?
In Canada we have two certifications. "Basic", and "Advanced". "Basic" is that ya write a fairly easy exam, and you're done. I suspect it's similar to your "Trust" cert. Our Advanced is similar to your 107 I suppose, but there are notable differences. There is no distinction whether commercial or not, only the size of the AC and what you wish to do with it (again, commercial aspect doesn't factor into it at all).
In order to pass the Advanced cert, you need to do an online test that is VERY hard if I say so myself. Once you pass the exam, then in order to actually get the Advanced certification you're required to do (typically) an in-person flight review testing your knowledge of safety protocols and your general ability to fly the AC safely.
Here's how it shakes out -
Basic operations
If you meet
all 5 of these conditions, you're conducting basic operations:
- You fly it in uncontrolled airspace
- You fly it more than 30 metres (100 feet) horizontally from bystanders
- You never fly it over bystanders
- You fly it more than 3 nautical miles from a certified airport or a military aerodrome
- You fly it more than 1 nautical mile from a certified heliport
If you do not meet
any 1 of these 5 conditions, you are conducting advanced operations.
For example, let’s say you fly your drone more than 30 metres (100 feet) horizontally from bystanders but in controlled airspace. This operation is advanced because you’re flying in controlled airspace even if you’re more than 30 metres (100 feet) horizontally from bystanders.
For basic operations, here are some of the rules you must follow:
- Register your drone with Transport Canada before you fly it for the first time
- Mark your drone with its registration number
- Pass the Small Basic Exam
- Be able to show your Pilot Certificate – Basic Operations and proof of registration when you fly
Advanced operations
If you meet
any 1 of these conditions, you are conducting advanced operations:
- You want to fly in controlled airspace
- You want to fly over bystanders
- You want to fly within 30 metres (100 feet) of bystanders (measured horizontally)
- You want to fly less than 3 nautical miles from a certified airport or a military aerodrome
- You want to fly less than 1 nautical mile from a certified heliport
For advanced operations, here are some of the rules you must follow:
- Register your drone with Transport Canada before you fly it for the first time
- Mark your drone with its registration number
- Have a drone with the appropriate Safety declaration for the intended operation
- Pass the Small Advanced Exam
- Pass a flight review with a flight reviewer
- Be able to show your Pilot Certificate – Advanced Operations and proof of registration when you fly your drone
- Seek permission from air traffic control (NAV CANADA or the Department of National Defence) to fly in controlled airspace (request an RPAS Flight Authorization from NAV CANADA)
- Fly within the operational limits of your drone
