Visual Line of Sight, FPV Goggles and Visual Observers: Canadian Rules Explained

Most drone flights in Canada must stay within visual line of sight (VLOS). It sounds simple, but questions come up constantly: does a video feed count? Can I fly with FPV goggles? What does a visual observer do? Here are the answers.

What VLOS means

VLOS means that you, or a visual observer working with you, can see the drone directly with your own eyes (corrective lenses are fine) without binoculars or a screen, well enough to know where it is, how it’s moving and whether it’s in danger of hitting something. Watching the camera feed on a phone or controller screen is not VLOS.

FPV goggles

Flying with first-person-view (FPV) goggles means the pilot can’t see the drone directly. Under Canadian rules, FPV flights are possible when a visual observer keeps the drone in direct sight and can communicate with the pilot at all times. The observer must be close enough to talk to the pilot and must not have other duties that distract them.

Visual observers

A visual observer helps the pilot keep the drone in sight and watches for hazards such as other aircraft, birds and people. Good practice:

• Brief the observer on the flight plan and emergency procedures.
• Agree on clear phrases (“traffic left”, “people entering area”, “land now”).
• Use radios if you’re not standing together.
• Make sure the observer is fit to fly — no alcohol, not exhausted.

Extending the range: EVLOS

Since November 4, 2025, extended visual line of sight (EVLOS) operations allow trained visual observers to help keep the drone in sight over a larger area, within limits and in uncontrolled airspace. See the 2025 operation categories.

Practical tips to keep VLOS

1. Fly closer than you think — small drones disappear quickly at 300–400 m.
2. Avoid flying behind trees, hills or buildings.
3. Use lights or strobes to keep the drone visible, especially at dusk — see night flying rules.
4. Look up from the screen regularly, especially before changing direction.