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Dec 05, 2025
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PUBLISHED 2025-2026 Credit Catalog
Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems
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Soar to new heights with our Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) diploma and start an exciting career as a professional RPAS pilot.
Learn how to fly a wide variety of RPAS (unmanned systems) in a multitude of industry-simulated applications, process collected data, and repair and maintain them to ensure airworthiness. This program will prepare you to meet Transport Canada’s training and regulation requirements to professionally pilot RPAS in all environments, including Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.
As a student, you will:
- learn how to maintain RPAS platforms
- learn the regulatory and planning aspects of RPAS operation
- learn to conduct inspections and map geomatics data for environmental, agricultural and industrial applications
- have the opportunity to produce a usable product for clients or employers
- learn how to contribute to your company’s business plan and design
- coordinate RPAS flight operations with various RPAS pilots and projects
- lead RPAS teams in high-risk, complex operations
- interpret and adhere to policies for RPAS operation at the company or federal level
- ensure company compliance and site audits.
You’ll also work towards your Advanced Pilot Certificate and Restricted Operator Certificate-Aeronautical (ROC-A) certifications.
There is no better time to get into the RPAS field as this dynamic industry continues to grow rapidly across many sectors, including agriculture, forestry, energy and environment, construction, cinematography, and emergency services.
If you are interested in advanced technology and drones and you want to become an expert in the field and understand the business side of RPAS, this program is for you.
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Traits, skills and aptitudes
Professional Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems pilots need: - a strong interest in aviation and advanced technologies
- the ability to think in 3D
- strong concentration skills
- strong communication skills
- the ability to remain calm under pressure
- IT and math skills
- the ability to make quick decisions in emergencies, give accurate instructions and accept considerable responsibility.
Following Transport Canada’s requirements, pilots must: - not suffer from any condition which would render them unfit to perform their duties
- have a visual acuity of 20/20 (the use of corrective lenses to achieve this is acceptable)
- have sufficient English language ability to be understood by local air traffic control when using VHF radio
- provide evidence of good health
- be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
Accreditations, designations or certifications
Graduates of this program will have the following certifications: - Transport Canada Pilot Certificate - Advanced Operations
- Restricted Operator Certificate-Aeronautical (ROC-A)
This program is also positioned to meet anticipated certification standards of Transport Canada Level 1 Complex Operations (RPAS Pilot Certificate) once they are finalized and approved. Credential
After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems diploma. Accepts international applicants - not-PGWP eligible
This program is open to international applicants; however, program availability may be limited. This program does not meet the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program. Related careers
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education. Potential careers (NOC): - Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology (22214)
- Film and video camera operators (52110)
- Land surveyors (21203)
- Photographers (53110)
- Motion pictures, broadcasting, photography and performing arts assistants and operators (53111)
- Urban and land use planners (21202)
- Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology (22214)
- Geological and mineral technologists and technicians (22101)
- Other service support occupations (65329)
Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents: - a minimum of 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, and
- a minimum of 50% in Math 30-1 or Math 30-2, and
- a minimum of 50% in one Grade 12 Science course.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta. Application process
International applicants must reach out to the School of Transportation (transportation.info@sait.ca) before they submit their application to ensure they are eligible to participate fully in all course activities due to Canadian aviation regulations. Program outline
The Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems diploma requires 60 credits (19 courses) to complete. The program spans two years with two semesters per year. Required courses
You must take all of the following courses to complete this program. Suggested schedule of study
We recommend you complete the courses in the order listed below. Progression
You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines. Review our grading and progression procedure > Books and supplies
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page. Additional software required for the program will be provided, including: Please ensure your device is capable of running these programs. Books are approximately $150 per year. Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn’t receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you’re in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term. Required equipment/tools You will need to purchase a drone build kit for approximately $1,200 in your first year. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) You’ll be required to use personal protective equipment (PPE) when working in the shop and performing flight duties. Some of this equipment can be purchased from SAIT and others will need to be sourced elsewhere. The cost of PPE is approximately $220. Transportation program advising
For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Transportation. Phone: 403.284.8471
Email: transportation.info@sait.ca Program outcomes
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, partners, and clients to ensure successful RPAS operations.
- Implement safety protocols and risk mitigation strategies to minimize operational hazards.
- Demonstrate expertise in planning and executing complex RPAS missions across various contexts.
- Employ critical thinking to adapt RPAS operations to diverse environmental conditions.
- Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in conducting RPAS operations across a variety of settings.
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