In Episode 13 of Sky Commander Academy, we’re handing you the map to smarter, safer drone flights — literally.Aeronautical charts aren’t just for airplane pilots — they’re a core part of RPAS flight planning and a guaranteed topic on the Basic RPAS Certificate exam.

This episode makes chart reading simple and actionable, so you can avoid restricted zones, stay compliant, and never wonder “Can I fly here?” again.

You’ll learn:

• How to interpret VFR Navigation Charts (VNCs) used in Canadian airspace

• What all those map symbols mean — and which ones could keep you out of trouble

• How to calculate distances and identify airspace boundaries relevant to drone pilots

• What Transport Canada expects you to know about using charts for legal flight planning

Whether you're studying for the exam or planning your next RPAS mission, this episode gives you the confidence to navigate Canada’s skies with precision.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #AeronauticalCharts #VNCMaps #AirspaceBoundaries #MapSymbols #DroneFlightPlanning #BasicRPASCertificate #RPASExamPrep

In Episode 12 of Sky Commander Academy, we hand you the keys to reading the sky — literally. If you’re serious about passing your Basic RPAS Certificate or planning safe drone flights, knowing how to decode aviation weather reports isn’t optional — it’s mission-critical.

This episode breaks down the most important weather tools and notices RPAS pilots need to check before takeoff to avoid risky conditions and airspace violations.

You’ll learn:

• How to quickly understand METARs and TAFs — even if you're not a full-on aviation geek

• What NOTAMs are, how to find them, and why ignoring one could cost you your drone

• The best online aviation weather tools for Canadian RPAS pilots — and how to use them effectively

• What Transport Canada expects you to know about weather reports for safe and legal drone ops

If you’ve ever skipped the weather check or felt confused by all those acronyms — this episode will make you a better (and more compliant) pilot.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #AviationWeather #METARs #TAFs #NOTAMs #DroneFlightPlanning #WeatherReports #BasicRPASCertificate #RPASExamPrep

In Episode 11 of Sky Commander Academy, we break down one of the most underestimated threats to your drone: the weather. Whether you're flying a quick mission or prepping for your Basic RPAS Certificate, understanding how the sky behaves is absolutely critical.

This episode takes you from clear skies to chaotic turbulence with practical insights every RPAS pilot needs to stay compliant — and in control.

You’ll learn:

• How the atmospheric layers affect your drone’s stability and signal performance

• The different cloud types and precipitation you’ll need to recognize — and avoid

• What causes wind and turbulence, and how to predict when they’ll strike mid-flight

• How to factor weather into your pre-flight checklist like a pro

Don't let an unexpected gust or storm ruin your day (or your drone). This episode gives you the weather knowledge to fly smarter and safer — just like Transport Canada expects.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #DroneWeather #CloudTypes #WindAndTurbulence #BasicRPASCertificate #RPASExamPrep #AtmosphericLayers #DroneFlightSafety

In Episode 10 of Sky Commander Academy, we explore why even solo pilots need to think like a team. Whether you’re coordinating with a visual observer or managing communication on a commercial shoot, mastering Crew Resource Management (CRM) is key to safer, more efficient RPAS operations — and passing your Basic RPAS Certificate exam.

You’ll learn:

• The critical role of Visual Observers — and how they protect you and your aircraft

• How to improve team communication and coordination in high-pressure or multi-drone scenarios

• Why CRM is more than a checkbox — it’s the difference between a close call and a clean flight

• What Transport Canada expects you to know about teamwork, even in solo operations

Whether you're flying with friends or working on a crewed mission, this episode will help you build stronger habits, better awareness, and a more professional mindset.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #VisualObserver #CrewResourceManagement #DroneTeamwork #RPASExamPrep #DroneCommunication #BasicRPASCertificate #CRMForPilots

In Episode 9 of Sky Commander Academy, we’re talking about something most drone pilots don’t want to admit — your fitness to fly. This episode unpacks how alcohol, drugs, medications, and even lack of sleep can silently sabotage your decision-making, reaction time, and legal compliance.

This isn’t just about staying safe — it’s about staying certified.

You’ll learn:

• Why flying under the influence — even from a night out — could get you grounded

• What medications can impair your performance (and what you must disclose)

• How to assess your own alertness and reaction time before each flight

• The rules and expectations from Transport Canada regarding fitness for RPAS operations

Whether you're prepping for your Basic RPAS Certificate or just want to fly with confidence, this episode helps you stay sharp, legal, and air-ready.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #PilotFitness #RPASExamPrep #AlcoholAndDrones #DroneMedications #ReactionTimeMatters #DroneSafety #BasicRPASCertificate

In Episode 8 of Sky Commander Academy, we’re shifting focus from your drone to the most important system of all — YOU, the pilot. Great flight performance doesn’t just come from tech — it comes from sharp judgment, clear communication, and calm under pressure.

This episode dives into the human side of drone operations — a critical but often overlooked part of the Basic RPAS Certificate exam and real-world flying.

You’ll learn:

• How to develop Situational Awareness to make better split-second decisions

• The real impact of fatigue and stress on drone performance — and how to manage both

• Why Communication and Briefing protocols aren’t just for commercial teams

• The common human errors Transport Canada wants you to avoid

Whether you're flying solo or as part of a ground crew, this episode gives you the mental edge to operate with confidence — and avoid costly mistakes.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #SituationalAwareness #DroneStress #FatigueManagement #DroneCommunication #RPASExamPrep #DroneDecisionMaking #BasicRPASCertificate

In Episode 7 of Sky Commander Academy, we tackle what could make or break your mission when things go wrong: your drone’s emergency systems. From sudden signal loss to airspace violations, smart RPAS pilots don’t just hope for the best — they prepare for the worst.

This episode breaks down the essential safety features built into modern drones and explains exactly what Transport Canada expects you to know for the Basic RPAS Certificate.

You’ll learn:

• How Return-to-Home (RTH) really works — and why it sometimes fails

• What Fail-safe settings you should activate before every flight

• How Geofencing can save your drone — or stop your mission cold

• Why understanding these systems is critical not just for the exam, but for real-world flying

If you’ve ever asked, “What happens if I lose control of my drone?” — this episode has the answers.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #ReturnToHome #FailsafeSystems #Geofencing #EmergencySystems #DroneSafety #BasicRPASExam #RPASCertificate

In Episode 6 of Sky Commander Academy, we dive into one of the most critical — and misunderstood — components of every drone: the power system. Whether you're flying for fun or studying for your Basic RPAS Certificate, understanding how your drone is powered isn't optional — it’s essential.

This episode gives you the insider knowledge to manage your batteries like a pro and avoid the dangerous (and costly) mistakes that ground rookie pilots.

You’ll learn:

• The pros and cons of different drone battery types — and which one your RPAS likely uses

• Charging safety protocols that can prevent fires and extend battery life

• How to properly manage your batteries in the field — from storage to flight prep

• What Transport Canada expects you to know about power sources for the RPAS exam

Whether you're prepping for the exam or planning your next mission, this technical deep dive will keep your drone in the air — and your flight record clean.

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #DroneBatterySafety #LipoCharging #BasicRPASExam #DroneTraining #DronePowerSystems #BatteryManagement #RPASCertificate

In Episode 5 of Sky Commander Academy, we unpack the core systems that make every RPAS mission possible. This technical deep dive covers what pilots need to know about drone platforms, onboard intelligence, and communications — not just to pass the exam, but to fly with real understanding.

You’ll learn:

• The differences between Multirotor and Fixed-Wing drones — and when to use each

• What your Flight Controller and GPS are really doing mid-flight

• How your Control Links and Communication Systems work — and what to watch for when signal fails

Whether you're prepping for your Basic RPAS Certificate or upgrading your gear, this episode gives you the foundational knowledge to command your aircraft with confidence.

—

🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DronePilot #MultirotorVsFixedWing #FlightController #DroneTech #ControlLinks #BasicRPASExam #DroneTraining

In Episode 4 of Sky Commander Academy, we explore one of the most misunderstood responsibilities of RPAS pilots in Canada: privacy compliance.

Whether you're flying over homes, capturing footage near people, or running missions near sensitive areas — there are legal lines you can’t cross.

This episode breaks down:

• The difference between public airspace and private property rights

• What counts as a privacy violation under Canadian law

• How to protect yourself from complaints, lawsuits, or enforcement actions

• Best practices to stay compliant, ethical, and respected in the skies

If you fly professionally, this is mission-critical knowledge.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts
🌐 SkyCommander.ca
#DronePrivacy #RPASCanada #SkyCommander #DroneLaw #PrivacyCompliance #TransportCanada #DronePilots #KnowBeforeYouFly