Advanced RPAS Training for BVLOS & Complex Operations

Level 1 Complex Ground School Certification

Take your RPAS skills to the next level with our FREE Level 1 Complex Ground School Certification, designed for Advanced RPAS pilots preparing for BVLOS operations. This online course with instructor check-ins gives you the advanced knowledge and confidence to pass the Level 1 Complex RPAS theoretical exam and succeed in complex flight environments.

Your pathway starts here

About the Certification

Set yourself apart in the field of drone operations with the Level 1 Complex Ground School Certification, your essential step toward passing the Level 1 Complex RPAS theoretical exam. Designed for pilots aiming to conduct BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) missions in uncontrolled airspace, this 20-hour online course combines self-paced learning with scheduled instructor check-ins to keep you on track.

Developed by experienced RPAS professionals, the program delivers in-depth knowledge of air law, navigation, meteorology, human factors, and technical operations, each element tailored to the unique demands of complex missions. By completing this course, you’ll be fully prepared for the theoretical exam, demonstrating to employers, clients, and peers that you are serious about your craft and committed to operating at the highest standard in the industry. Give yourself the skills, confidence, and credibility to succeed, and take the next step toward Level 1 Complex RPAS certification today.

Skills You'll Gain:

Air Law and Regulatory Compliance In-depth knowledge of complex RPAS regulations and legal responsibilities.
Meteorology and Environmental Awareness Ability to assess weather and environmental factors critical to BVLOS operations.
Navigation and Airspace Knowledge Commercial Drone Operators expanding into long-range or complex mission profiles.
Advanced skills in reading aeronautical charts and planning missions in complex airspace.
Human Factors and Decision-Making Understanding how human performance and decision-making affect mission safety and success.
RPAS Systems and Technical Operations Comprehensive insight into RPAS components, technical systems, and maintenance requirements.
BVLOS Operational Readiness Preparation for the unique challenges and safety protocols of BVLOS missions.

Great For:

Advanced RPAS Certificate Holders preparing for Level 1 Complex RPAS certification.
Pilots Pursuing BVLOS Operations in uncontrolled airspace.
Organizations seeking certified personnel for higher-risk or regulatory-sensitive operations.

Certification Process

Step 1: Enroll in your free online ground school

Secure your spot in our comprehensive 20-hour online ground school with a fully refundable $300 deposit—no risk, just a commitment to your aviation journey! Enjoy expert-led instruction by seasoned commercial pilots, step-by-step video lessons, interactive quizzes, and a final exam to solidify your knowledge. You’ll also benefit from instructor-led checkpoints to keep you motivated and on track every step of the way.

Enroll today with confidence: your deposit is 100% refundable!

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Step 2: Live Instructor-Led Ground School (Virtual)

Launch your training with a live, instructor-led orientation session, tailored to fit your schedule. Craft your learning journey by selecting from our diverse range of specialized course sessions, each guided by expert instructors. Choose any sessions that spark your interest.

Participants are required to complete at least three sessions, each 2 hours in duration, totaling 6 hours to fulfill program requirements.

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Step 3: Earn Certification

After completing the course, you will receive an email with instructions to obtain your ground school certificate. Aside from it being a Transport Canada requirement, you can show off your certificate on LinkedIn or your resume to boost your drone career.

Step 4: Take the Transport Canada Level 1 Complex Exam

When you are ready, log in to the Transport Canada Drone Management Portal to complete the Level 1 Complex Exam.

Drone Management Portal

Step 5: Book & Pass a Level 1 Complex Operations Flight Review

Schedule your Level 1 Complex Operations Flight Review through the RPAS Wilco Flight Review Network.

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Successfully passing this flight review will earn your official Level 1 Complex Operations Certificate, confirming you meet Canada’s regulatory requirements for safe and compliant operations.

Step 6: Transport Canada Certificate Fee

Now comes the only part we can’t take credit for applying for your Level 1 Complex Operations Certificate directly with Transport Canada. Rest assured, their secure system makes the process smooth and straightforward. Once your application is complete, your certificate will be issued with no expiry, just keep your skills sharp. After that, you’re ready for takeoff!

Drone Management Portal

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We're here to help! Whether you have questions about our courses, need assistance with the RPAS WILCO app, or want to share your drone adventures, we're happy to help.