While the use of drones is most often raised as a cautionary
tale in the popular media, the commercial application of these
aircraft has resulted in a rapidly expanding industry with diverse
applications throughout Canada. According to Transport Canada, an
estimated 193,500 drones are being flown in Canada, compared to
only 37,000 "traditional" aircraft. The recreational
drone community is estimated at 140,800 operators for 2018 with a
projected increase to 225,500 operators by 2025. This rapid rise in
numbers, combined with the limited skill and knowledge of many
operators, has resulted in a number of dangerous incidents. As a
result, Transport Canada recently published new regulations meant
to create a "predictable and flexible regulatory environment
conducive to long-term planning while reducing costly
administrative burdens on businesses". A benefit of the new
regulations is ostensibly a reduction of the administrative burden
on commercial operators of drones.
