S2E7 - Don’t Just Launch — Assess: The Site Survey Checklist That Could Save Your Drone (and Your License)

In Season 2, Episode 7 of Sky Commander Academy, we zero in on one of the most important — and legally required — skills for Advanced RPAS pilots: the site assessment. If you’re launching without thoroughly assessing your surroundings, you’re not just risking your drone — you’re risking compliance, safety, and your standing as a certified pilot.

This episode walks you through the step-by-step process of performing a proper site assessment that meets Transport Canada’s Advanced RPAS expectations.

You’ll learn:

• What a complete site assessment looks like under Part IX of the CARs

• How to evaluate weather, terrain, airspace classifications, obstacles, and nearby activity

• The importance of identifying emergency landing zones, line-of-sight limitations, and public safety concerns

• Tools and templates to simplify your pre-flight process — and document it for future reference or audits

• Real-world examples of what happens when assessments are rushed, skipped, or incomplete

Whether you're preparing for a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) or just want to elevate your operational discipline, this episode helps you assess like an aviation pro — not just a hobbyist.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
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