Level 1 Complex
Designed for experienced operators ready to fly beyond the limits of standard Advanced operations.
RPAS-003
Level 1 Complex
Transport canada approved
Pilots conducting lower-risk Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) missions require a Level 1 Complex Operations Pilot Certificate. This course prepares you to meet the new Transport Canada requirements and pass the certification exam with confidence.
3-day live-online instruction with industry experts.
Unlimited access to course slide decks and exclusive study materials
25% off a FlySmart Flight Review!
Pass the Transport Canada Level 1 Complex Exam with confidence and ongoing support throughout your journey.
Already hold your Advanced certificate and need to fly beyond visual line of sight for your work? The answer is likely yes.
Level 1 Complex is the next step for operators whose missions extend past where Advanced allows — pipeline and transmission line inspections, forestry surveys, long-distance mapping, and structured commercial work outside standard line-of-sight rules
Complex Level 1 expands what you can do under Transport Canada's regulatory framework. With this certification, you can:
Operate beyond visual line of sight under approved conditions
Fly missions over long distances and in remote environments
Support pipeline, transmission line, and forestry operations at scale
Run structured commercial work that exceeds standard Advanced limits
Build toward higher-tier operations and SFOC-supported work
Open to individuals aged 16 and above.
To earn your Level 1 Complex certificate, you'll need to meet two requirements: pass the Transport Canada Level 1 Complex Exam with a score of at least 80%, and complete a hands-on flight review with a certified examiner.
FlySmart's Level 1 Complex course is built around the regulatory and operational realities of BVLOS work. You'll explore the framework behind "Complex Operations" under the Canadian Aviation Regulations and work through the key topics the exam covers; mission planning, risk assessment, safety procedures, and system redundancy.
The course is packed with practical insights and exam-focused material, designed to prepare you to confidently pass the Transport Canada Level 1 Complex exam and take your drone operations to the next level.
The flight review is the final step to getting your Level 1 Complex license. It's a one-hour hands-on assessment with one of our certified reviewers. Customers who also book their flight review with us save 25%
Live-Online
$950
A 3-day live course with experienced instructors covering everything you need to pass the Transport Canada Small Advanced Exam. Ask questions in real time, work through complex scenarios, and get tailored support as you progress. Weekend courses run Friday 5pm-9pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:30am-5:30pm. Weekday courses run 8am-4:30pm all three days. All times Pacific.
Submit the form below to get in touch with our team. Let us know any questions you have about the course or recommend instruction dates.
