Can I fly a drone near Macdonald-Cartier International (CYOW)?

Updated · From NAV CANADA and municipal data

Not with a Basic certificate: Basic pilots must stay at least 5.6 km (3 nautical miles) from Macdonald-Cartier International (CYOW). With an Advanced certificate you can fly closer, but the airport sits in a Class C control zone, so you also need NAV CANADA authorization through NAV Drone before every flight.

CYOW at a glance

ICAO code
CYOW
Status
Certified airport (Canada Flight Supplement)
Operator
Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport Aut
Operator phone
613-248-2200
Control tower
Yes
Controlled airspace
Class C control zone, surface to 3,000 ft ASL
Elevation
377 ft

Cities near CYOW

How far from Macdonald-Cartier International can I fly a drone?

Basic pilots must stay 5.6 km (3 NM) from the airport, measured from its centre point. For lower-risk beyond visual line-of-sight operations the distance is 9.3 km (5 NM). Advanced pilots can fly closer with the right permission.

How do I get NAV Drone authorization near CYOW?

Hold an Advanced pilot certificate, use a drone with the right manufacturer safety declaration, and submit an RPAS flight authorization request in NAV Drone for the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International, ON control zone. NAV CANADA may approve it with conditions such as a lower altitude, or refuse it.

Can I fly a sub-250 g drone near Macdonald-Cartier International?

Drones under 250 g do not need registration or a certificate, but you must never interfere with aircraft. Staying well clear of the airport and its approach paths is the safe choice.

Check an exact address

Rules change block by block. The free airspace checker shows the control zones, airports, NOTAMs and park restrictions at any Canadian address.

Can I fly here? →

Sources

General guidance based on the Canadian Aviation Regulations, not legal advice. Always confirm current NOTAMs and authorizations before you fly.