WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT TO WISCONSIN: Not only are the government and businesses using drones but more residents are taking up the hobby.
Canadians are taking to the skies—with drones.
As of 2024, more than 97,000 drones were registered in Canada and the number of certified drone pilots topped 100,000, according to Grow Trade Consulting. About one of every four drones is used by the military while the rest are primarily for recreation.
Canada’s drone market generated $4.1 billion in revenue in 2024 and projections indicate it will reach nearly $10 billion by 2030, the consultant group said.
Transport Canada regulates the drone industry and recent developments include:
• As of April 1, 2025, routine operations are permitted under certain conditions without the need for a special flight operations certificate.
• A new pilot certification class is required for drone operation beyond the visual line of sight, requiring updated knowledge and safety standards.
• All drones between 250 grams and 25 kilograms must be registered and pilots must be certified for either basic or advanced operations, depending on the complexity and location of flights.
• Regulatory priorities include seamless integration of drone traffic into national airspace, development of a drone security strategy, and measures to increase public trust in drone technology.
The new regulations may open the door for industries such as energy, agriculture, logistics, and emergency services to adopt drones for routine, long-range operations. In addition, drone services that include aerial surveying, mapping, inspection, and delivery are a rapidly growing market segment and present opportunities for new business models and specialized service companies.
Wisconsin companies involved in drone manufacturing or services may find opportunities to form partnerships with Canadian companies, particularly as subcontractors with firms that are awarded government defense contracts. Federal procurement opportunities are also available through platforms like Canada Buys.
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