Public Opinion Research Study on Drone Users' Familiarity with the New Rules & the General Public's Social Acceptance of Drones

Final report

Prepared for Transport Canada

Supplier: Leger Marketing Inc.
Contract Number: T8053-200054/001/CY
Contract Value: $61,167.78 (including HST)
Award Date: 2021-11-16
Delivery Date: 2021-03-08

Registration Number: POR 059-29
For more information on this report, please contact Transport Canada at TC.Publicopinion-Opinionpublique.TC@tc.gc.ca

Ce rapport est aussi disponible en français

This public opinion research report presents the results of an online survey conducted by Léger Marketing Inc.on behalf of Transport Canada. The quantitative portion of the research study was conducted with 2,703 Canadians between January 11 and January 31, 2021. The qualitative portion of the research study was conducted with 55 Canadians between February 23 and March 2, 2021.

Cette publication est aussi disponible en français sous le titre Étude d'opinion publique sur la familiarité des utilisateurs de drones avec les nouvelles règles et l'acceptation sociale des drones par le grand public.

This publication may be reproduced for non-commercial purposes only. Prior written permission must be obtained from Transport Canada. For more information on this report, please contact Transport Canada at: TC.Publicopinion-Opinionpublique.TC@tc.gc.ca.

Transport Canada
330 Sparks Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 0N5

Catalogue Number:
T22-248/2021E-PDF

International Standard Book Number (ISBN):
978-0-660-37880-0

Related publications (registration number: POR 059-20):

• T22-248/2021F-PDF
• 978-0-660-37881-7

© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Public Works and Government Services, 2020

Table of contents

• Executive Summary
  • 1.1 Background and Objectives
  • 1.2 Methodology
  • 1.3 Overview of the Findings
  • 1.4 Notes on Interpretation of the Research Findings
  • 1.5 Political Neutrality Statement and Contact Information
• Detailed Results – Quantitative Research
  • 2.1 Drone Users
  • 2.2 General Public (Non-Users)
• Detailed Results – Qualitative Research
  • 3.1 Drone Users
  • 3.2 General Public (Non-Users)
• Conclusion
• Appendix
  • A.1 Quantitative Methodology
  • A.2 Qualitative Methodology
  • A.2 Screening Guide
  • A.3 Discussion Guide
  • A.4 Survey Questionnaire

Executive Summary

Leger is pleased to present Transport Canada with this report on findings from a quantitative survey and qualitative Bulletin Boards designed to learn about Canadians drone users and the general public. This report was prepared by Léger Marketing Inc. who was contracted by Transport Canada (contract number T8053-200054/001/CY awarded November 16, 2020).

1.1 Background and Objectives

Regulations surrounding the use of drones in Canada have evolved rapidly in recent years. As a matter of fact, the drone industry is contributing to the Canadian economy in many high-value domains, such as precision agriculture and package delivery. Regulations enable the growth of emerging industries by creating a predictable framework in which to operate. At the same time, they aim to address the safety concerns associated with the integration of an emerging technology into Canadian airspace. To keep up with these changes more information is needed on drone users, the general population and their respective level of knowledge about drones and associated regulations. There is also a need to assess the level of social acceptance of the use of drones in the society.

Transport Canada (TC) has observed an increasing trend in the number of reported drone incidents since 2014. Without concluding that Canadians are no longer operating their drones safely, which could be circumstantial, Transport Canada needs a better understanding of the level of awareness and knowledge of the regulations among users and the general population. The results of this study will allow Transport Canada to inform its communication strategies with Canadians about drones.

This study was done through a mixed qualitative and quantitative study.

For each of the study's target groups, the general objectives of the study are as follows:

Drone Users

• Creating a user profile with demographics (age, gender, geolocation, income, education)
• Identifying behaviours (flying frequency, safety features used, commercial or personal usage, awareness of rules)
• Identify purchasing habits (number of drones owned, brand or home build, and year of purchase)
• Identifying sources of information on drones and the new rules
• Measuring registration rate
• Measuring pilot certification rate

General population:

• Profile the sample with demographics (age, gender, geolocation, income, education)
• Measuring the opinion about drones and their perception
• Measuring the level of comfort with drones flying in their vicinity
• Measuring the level of comfort with drones in various situations (e.g. delivering a package, home security)
• Assessing the government role as a regulator
• Measuring the awareness of drone regulations
• Identifying opinion about drone in general, drone regulation and future use of drones
• Other related factors such as safety

1.2 Methodology

Quantitative Research – Online Survey

This public opinion research was conducted via online surveys, using Computer Aided Web Interviewing (CAWI) technology. Fieldwork for the survey was carried out from January 11, 2021 to January 31, 2021. A total of 2,703 Canadians were interviewed, 701 drone users and 2,002 non-users from the general population.

A pre-test of 20 interviews was completed before launching data collection to validate the programming of the questionnaire in both English and French.

Since we didn't use an actual probability sampling method, the calculation of the margin of error cannot be done for this project.

Leger adheres to the most stringent guidelines for quantitative research. The survey instrument was compliant with the Standards of Conduct of Government of Canada Public Opinion Research.

A complete methodological description is provided in the Appendix section of this document (please see Appendix A).

Notes to the reader

The cross-tabulations in this report present the detailed responses obtained for the questions in the Drone Users Survey.

Presented in the ‟Total” column are the results for all respondents, and then the results per subgroup (for example, by gender, age, drone owners and non-owners, etc.). Red (with a - symbol) and green (with a + symbol) numbers respectively indicate lower or higher results that are considered statistically significant compared to results obtained for other respondents. Two proportions or two averages are significantly different only when statistical tests confirm this difference.

In the example below, we observe that overall, 14% of respondents have a background in aviation (consistent with 2019 results, 15%). There are significant differences among the drone users based on the purpose of drone usage. Recreational respondents are less likely to have a background in aviation (11%).  As shown in Table 1, the “non-owner” category refers to people who said that they do fly drones but do not own them.  As such, they are drone users, without being owners.

Note: Unweighted n = actual number of respondents surveyed in each sub-group.

Qualitative Research – Bulletin Boards

Leger conducted a series of four online discussion sessions with French-speaking and English-speaking Canadians. Conducting the discussion sessions online offered the opportunity to regroup people from all the regions in Canada. Two sessions were held with drone non-users (general public) and two sessions were held with drone users. One session in English and one session in French were held with each target. The sessions were held in the format of Bulletin Boards, i.e. chat-type discussion sessions. For each online discussion session, fifteen participants were recruited by our professional recruiters. A total of 55 recruits participated in the online focus groups (see Table 3 for details). All participants in the focus group received an honorarium of $100.

Online discussion sessions were conducted using the itracks Bulletin Boards software to facilitate moderation and to ensure an optimal interface between moderator and participants. Participants could interact with one another and the moderator as the discussion unfolded. Each session was open for 12 hours in order to maximize the participation of as many recruits as possible.

All sessions allowed for remote viewing by Leger and Transport Canada observers.

1.3 Overview of the Findings

1.3.1 Quantitative Survey

Profile and Habits of Drone Users

Overall, the incidence of drone users on the Canadian population is 13% (this includes both those who own and do not own a drone and for all types of use). This incidence rate includes recreational and/or professional drone users (those who use their drone for work or research), regardless of if they own a drone or not. Two-thirds of users own one drone (65%) and four out of five fly drones for recreational purposes (80%). 14% of users indicate flying drones professionally (for work or research purposes), while 6% note flying drones for both recreational and professionally.

Generally speaking, Ontario residents are more likely than residents of other provinces to be drone users (15% of Ontario residents fly drones) while Quebec residents are more likely to be non-users (89% of Quebec residents do not fly drones). Males are also more likely to be drone users than females: 19% of males fly drones while only 7% females do. The results found that 21% of Canadians between the ages of 18 and 34 fly drones, which was the highest amount among age groups. This decreases to 15% of Canadians between the ages of 35 and 54 and 6% for Canadians that are 55 years old or older.

Generally speaking, the respondents who said they did fly their drones for both recreationally and professionally, fly their drones on average 59% of the time for recreational purposes and 41% of the time professionally.

A clear majority of respondents do not have any background in aviation.  When questioned about having a background in aviation, 81% of the drone users said they did not, while only 14% said they did. Results show that professional drone users are more likely to have a background in aviation (25%).

Generally speaking, recreational users mainly fly their drone(s) for the fun of flying (70%) and 26% fly drones to film videos or take pictures. Drone owners are more likely to fly their drone(s) just for the fun of flying (73%). On their part, non-owners are less likely to fly drones just for the fun of flying (62%) when presented with the opportunity to fly a drone.

One out of four drone users who fly their drone for both professional and recreational purposes (24%) identified the main reason for flying a drone or model aircraft professionally as filmmaking, videography or photography, and nearly one out of five for agricultural purposes (surveys or inspections (17%), inspecting buildings, structures or roofs (area surveys, perimeter scans) (16%), and/or research/academic research purposes (16%).

Generally speaking, drone users mostly fly their drone(s) in a rural area (37%). Users who fly drones for both recreational and professional purposes are more likely to fly their drone(s) in a suburban area (43%) while 41% of recreational drone users fly their drone(s) in a rural area.

Generally speaking, drone users mostly fly medium drones (over 250 grams but below 25kg) in urban settings (54%).

Users who fly drones for professional purposes are more likely to fly large drones (above 25kg) in an urban setting (21%) while recreational drone users are more likely to fly micro drones (under 250 grams).

Profile of Drone Owned

Drone owners seem to mostly own one drone (65%), and seven out of ten recreational users own one drone. On the other hand, 45% of owners who fly drones for both recreational and professional purposes said they own two drones or more (30%).

Just under three-quarters of the drone owners bought their most-used drone through a retail store (72%), either online (33%) or in-store (40%). More than four in ten recreational users purchased their drone in-store (44%), whereas professional drone users are more likely to have purchased their drone directly from the manufacturer (23%) or through a website specializing in drones (13%).

Surprisingly, three in ten drone owners said they didn't know the make or brand of the drone they fly most often (31%). The most popular brand among the respondents is DJI (17%), followed by Parrot (11%). In the same vein, 76% also didn't know the weight of their most-used drone. The overall average reported weight of a drone is 6.7 pounds [3.04 kg] – 3.3 pounds [1.5 kg] on average for recreational-only users, and 27.0 pounds [12.25 kg] on average for professional-only users.

Clubs, Learning Techniques, Certifications and Safety Trainings

Only 1% of the respondents are part of a drone or model aircraft club, but 15% said they are looking into joining one. More than four in five of the recreational users are not part of any drone or model aircraft clubs nor looking to join one (82%).

Just one in ten respondents have attended a drone flight school to learn how to operate a drone (12%), with 29% of professional users having attended a drone flight school. Most often, those who attended took an online class (65%).

Two respondents out of ten either have a Drone Pilot Certificate issued by the Government of Canada (13%) or are in the process of obtaining one (9%). One-quarter (23%) of the professional users are in the process of obtaining their certificate and 44% of the users who fly for both recreational and professional purposes already have their certificate. Results show that recreational users are more likely to not have a drone pilot certificate (79%).

Two-thirds of drone users who have a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada found the process demanding to some degree (66%). 43% said they considered it “Somewhat demanding” and 23% stated they found it “Very demanding.”

Nearly seven out of ten drone users (68%) have not received any training or seen any instructional videos specifically on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations; only one-quarter of drone users (25%) have seen such a video or received such training. Drone owners are more likely to have received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety (27%). Professional users and users who fly drones for both recreational and work or research purposes are more likely to be part of those who have received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations (34% and 66%, respectively). It is also interesting to note that drone users who fly drones for both recreational and professional (work or research purposes) are more likely to not know if they have received such training or seen such instructional videos (12%).

The majority of drone users who received training or saw an instructional video specifically on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations, found it prepared them well for using a drone (86%). 54% indicated “Fairly good preparation” and 32% stated “Very good preparation.”

Information Sources and Regulations

More than half of the respondents have never searched for information on Canadian Government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft (55%). Results show that 42% of drone owners have searched information on Canadian regulations, while only 33% of the non-owners have. While 57% of recreational users have not conducted conduct such a search, nearly two-thirds of those who use drones for both recreational and professional purposes have searched for regulatory information (64%).

Drone users who stated that they have sought information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft, 61% of them did so using a search engine (e.g., Google, Bing, Yahoo, etc.), 57% visited the Government's website and 17% went directly on Transport Canada's website.

Half of the respondents self-evaluate themselves as not knowledgeable with regards to Transport Canada's drones and model aircraft regulations (51%). All in all, only 11% of the respondents considered they were “Very knowledgeable.” Seven out of ten respondents who fly drones for both recreational and work or research purposes consider themselves knowledgeable of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft (72%). The best-known rule by recreational drone users is that drones must be flown far away from other aircraft (76%). While they see themselves as not knowledgeable concerning regulations, their level of awareness on certain key elements of the current rules is higher.

Six out of ten drone users think that they are knowledgeable about drones in general (59%). 47% said they considered themselves “Somewhat knowledgeable” and 12% stated they were “Very knowledgeable.”  Users who fly drones for both recreational and professional purposes are more likely to consider themselves knowledgeable (81%).

Nearly two thirds of drone users feel their knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircrafts has remained the same over the last year (63%). Non-owners (12%) are more likely to indicate that their knowledge has decreased, while those who fly for recreational and professional purposes are more likely to indicate that it has increased (41%).

At least half of drone users indicate being aware of each of the rules regarding drones or model aircraft currently enforced in Canada, with the greatest proportion being aware that they must operate ‘far away from other aircraft (don't fly anywhere near airplanes, helicopters and other drones; 70%)'. As might be expected, drone users who are owners, generally are more likely to be aware of the current rules compared to non-owners. Recreational users are generally more likely than professional users to be aware of each of the rules surrounding drones and model aircrafts currently enforced in Canada.

Generally, each of the current aspects of the Federal government legislation, in relation to who can fly drones and how or where they can be flown, improve drone users' perceptions of drone safety. Recreational users are more likely than professional users to indicate their perceptions of drone safety are improved by each of the aspects.

Drone users are most comfortable with drones being deployed in emergency scenarios to help save people, like in search and rescue operations, followed by being used to deliver parcels, instead of by delivery personnel. Users are least comfortable with the idea of drones being used to transport people like a taxi service. Drone owners are generally more likely than non-owners to indicate that they would be comfortable with all potential uses of drones.

Communication

Two out of ten drone users indicate that the best way that for Transport Canada to communicate  relevant information to drones users in Canada regarding safely flying their drone would be through social media (22%), followed by online (19%), and/or television ads (17%). Online ads on drone speciality websites is the preferred medium for 35% of the users who fly drones for both recreational and professional purposes.

When it comes to staying informed on the newest trends about drones and model aircraft, two out of ten respondents do so on the internet through a Google search or other search engine (21%). YouTube channels are also a source of information for 10% of the respondents.

1.3.2 Qualitative Research

Drone Users

The majority of the participants would qualify themselves as recreational drone users. They mainly use their drones for photography or to film while they are on vacation or on a hike. Professional users also use their drone(s) for the same purposes.

Most drone users fly their drone anywhere that they would think would be interesting for an aerial shot, as long as it's a safe place to do so. Users with less experience said they mainly practice on their own property, outside their house.

When using the drone, respondents said they try to keep their drone within visual range, away from people, power lines, cars and other people's houses. Some professional users mentioned that they use of pre-programed flights because the height and speed of the operation must be constant.

The most popular brand among participants was DJI. Other brands were also mentioned to a lesser extent: National Geographic, Propel, Holy Stone, AKASO Tech, Protocol, and Bigly Brothers.

Most participants judged they are somewhat familiar with the laws and regulations surrounding the use of drones in Canada. Most think they know enough to fly the small drone(s) they own.

Most participants do not however know much about how the drone regulations are enforced. They imagine it is enforced by Transport Canada. Some mentioned they would not even know where to report an unsafe use they witnessed. Some others assume it falls on the local police jurisdiction.

For the participants who are aware of the laws and regulations, they try to always follow them in general. The majority mentioned trying to do their best with what they know. On the other end, some participants are aware they have not always followed the rules, more specifically while they were on vacation.

When thinking about precautionary measures, the majority mentioned not flying on windy days or when the weather is not good. Some participants mentioned that if they are not alone while flying their drone, they also ask their friend to keep an eye on the drone and an ear out for other aircraft that might enter the airspace. The majority of participants also mention not flying around other people, not flying near power lines, not flying near cars or houses but rather flying in a large open field.

For participants who have searched for general information about drones, they mainly searched for piloting tips, how to stay in control, how to use the drone they purchased or how to fix some part of their drone(s). Some also researched reviews prior to purchasing a drone, how well they work or issues that the drone they wanted to buy tend to have.

If they had to search for information about drones, the majority of participants would begin with a Google search and see where the search takes them. For laws and licensing, they would generally turn directly to Transport Canada's website. Some also mentioned YouTube as a search tool.

Some participants admitted not having done exhaustive research on drone laws and rules. Some did stumble upon the laws and rules while searching for other types of information. For the participants who did search for information on drone laws and rules, they searched for this information on the Transport Canada website.

If they had to search for information about laws and rules on the use of drones, most participants would start by doing a Google search. Some participants said they would start by skimming through Transport Canada's website and would then resort to a Google search if they did not find the relevant information.

The majority of participants have not taken any course or training to fly drones. Some admitted they would consider taking a class once they get the hang of simply controlling their drone. Only a couple of participants have taken a course or training.

Generally speaking, some participants do have privacy and safety concerns about the use of drones. Some are also concerned because they found drones are not as easy to fly as they expected. To alleviate their concerns, participants feel classes should be mandatory even for small toy drones, that way everyone would be educated and more aware of the laws and rules to follow, and also learn the right technique. Some participants went as far as saying anyone who buys a drone should have to provide a valid Drone Pilot Certificate to do so.

The majority of participants thought Transport Canada's rules and regulations for drones were excellent.  When presented with a sample of Transport Canada drone regulations currently in force, most of the participants had no previous knowledge of them. However, they judged them to be common sense. Some participants were surprised to learn that drones above 250g must be registered with Transport Canada in order to be legally flown.

When presented with different possible future uses of drones, participants were rather divided. Most participants are comfortable with the use of drones for emergency situations like search and rescue, monitoring infrastructure like power lines and monitoring and protecting wildlife.

Most participants are not quite comfortable with flying taxicabs. Some feel the sounds would disturb them, others feel flying taxicabs ‘sound like an accident waiting to happen'. On the other end, one participant pointed that if they helped reduce pollution, it might make her feel a little better about it. Another participant mentioned flying taxicabs ‘sound cool and all, but there has to be a 99.9% chance it can't crash!'

More participants were comfortable with autonomous drones. They believe human errors can happen as much as computer errors. Some even think that it would be safer if drones were all computer controlled.

General Public

The general population does not have an in-depth knowledge of drones. They have basic knowledge to what they can do: capture photos or videos, military applications, and delivery purposes.

The general population feel drones can be useful for both recreational and professional uses: photography, scientific, geographic, etc.

Participants who had little to no knowledge about drones compared them to remote-controlled toy cars. The only usage they see in them is to play.

Without having a lot of knowledge about drones the majority of participants thought drones can be safe, if used properly, and with the right intentions. The main unsafe attribute of drones mentioned by some participants is that it's human operated, so human errors can occur, and damages can be done to unaware bystanders.

Most participants were only somewhat aware of the drone laws and regulations, but whether they are aware or not of the laws and regulations, they assume that Canada does a good job at catching and penalizing unsafe drone pilots.

Generally speaking, most participants think the drone laws and regulations are enforced by Transport Canada, while only one or two participants feel it must fall on local law enforcement, i.e. local police, or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Participants who looked for information about drones, whether general information or information about laws and rules, were mainly looking to have a better understanding of a drone's function, how useful they can be in general, the price range for drones and safety rules and regulations.

If they were to conduct research on drones or the laws and regulations, the majority of participants would start off by a Google search if they were to search for information on drones. They then imagine they would either end up on drone enthusiasts' blogs, YouTube channels, or more serious governmental sources for safety information, such as Transport Canada's website

Participants mainly had a positive opinion towards drones. Some think it is a positive resource that can be of help for many different purposes. Even if overall, the majority had a positive opinion, a lot of them also had some reservations. They felt a person could use a drone to violate other people's privacy or if the battery runs out of power while flying, they could cause an accident.

Participants said the following may alleviate concerns: pilots being educated before being allowed to own a drone, limiting the height range the drone can fly from the controller or software, classifying drones (just like cars or planes), proof of a course completion to purchase a drone and clear and rigorous regulations.

After being presented with the current Federal government regulations, the majority of participants thought the rules and regulations were excellent and felt safer knowing they are in place. Reading the current regulations also brought up more questions from participants, such as who determines what is “properly qualified” and how does one go about getting qualified, or if registered, does a user require insurance to fly legally.

When presented with different possible future uses of drones, participants were rather divided. Some were not comfortable with all the different types of uses of drones presented, while others were comfortable with all of them, and some were partially comfortable with only some of the uses presented.

Almost every participant was comfortable with using drones for emergency situations like search and rescue, monitoring infrastructure like power lines and monitoring and protecting wildlife.

Only a few participants were comfortable with flying taxicabs. Most feel there would be many safety concerns. Some also feel they would always be worried about a person or a drone falling on them while walking on the streets.

Participants were more comfortable with autonomous drones. Most participants believe human errors can happen as much as computer errors. Some even think that if the drone is “all” computer-controlled, it would work better than a mixed system. Some even went on to say it would be even safer than human controlled drones. Others compared it to the most recent NASA Mars Perseverance Rover mission was controlled by a computer, and everything went smoothly.

1.4 Notes on Interpretation of the Research Findings

The views and observations expressed in this document do not reflect those of Transport Canada. This report was compiled by Leger based on the research conducted specifically for this project. This research is not probabilistic; the results cannot be inferred to the general population of Canada.

1.5 Political Neutrality Statement and Contact Information

Leger certifies that the final deliverables fully comply with the Government of Canada's political neutrality requirements outlined in the Policy on Communications and Federal Identity and the Directive on the Management of Communications.

Specifically, the deliverables do not include information on electoral voting intentions, political party preferences, standings with the electorate, or ratings of the performance of a political party or its leaders.

Signed:

Christian Bourque, Senior Researcher
Léger

Detailed Results – Quantitative Research

2.1 Drone Users

2.1.1 Profiling

As mentioned before, this study is focussed on people who fly drones, which include the following:

• Canadians who personally own a drone or other model aircraft that they fly for recreational purposes;
• Canadians who personally own a drone or other model aircraft that they fly professionally (for work or research purposes);
• Canadians who do not own a drone or other model aircraft but fly them for recreational purposes;
• Canadians who do not own a drone or other model aircraft but fly them professionally (for work or research purposes);
• Canadians who personally own a drone or other model aircraft that they fly BOTH for professional AND recreational purposes; and
• Canadians who do not own a drone or other model aircraft but fly for BOTH professional AND recreational purposes.

While this study is non-probabilistic, our results show that the incidence of drone users in the Canadian population is 13% (down slightly from 2019 results, 17%). Some are not necessarily the owner of the drone(s) they fly, and they can use them for either recreational purposes, work or research purposes, or for both. Weighting was based on administrative statistics of the starting sample, which creates a calibrated final sample that is representative of the Canadian population, allowing us to evaluate the prevalence of drone users in the population.

More than six out of ten (63%) drone users own a drone for recreational reasons and more than one out of ten (13%) own a drone and fly it for professional reasons. Nearly a quarter of drone users (23%) do not own a drone but occasionally fly one for recreational reasons, while less than one out of ten users (7%) do not personally own a drone but fly it professionally.

Figure 1. Answer to question 1: Which of the following best applies to your current situation? MULTIPLE ANSWERS ALLOWED * Base: Drone Users (n=701) *Because respondents were able to give multiple answers, total mentions may exceed 100%.

The next tables (4-5-6) detail the prevalence of drone users among Canadians.

Proportionally, Ontario has significantly more drone users than other provinces (15%). In contrast, Quebecers are the least likely to be drone users (11%). There are no other significant differences between respondents from other provinces. Males are also more likely to be drone users (19%). Women are less than half as likely to use drones as men (7%). People under 55 are more likely to be more of a user of drones than other Canadians (21%, 18-34 year, and 15%, 35-54 years).People who are 55 years and older are more likely to be non-users (94%).

The next tables (7-8-9) detail drone ownership among drone users.

There are fewer drone users in Atlantic Canada who do not own their own drone than in other provinces. This is the only significant difference observable in the results between provinces depending on whether the user owns his or her drone. Males are more likely to be drone owners (76%), while females are more likely to be non-owners (63%). There are no differences between age groups with respect to ownership.

The next tables (10-11-12) detail the purpose of drone usage among drone users.

Other than for some differences between age groups, there are no statistically significant provincial or gender differences as to the reason for using drones. Drone users aged between 35 and 54 years are more likely to be recreational users only (86%). People aged 18 to 34 are more likely to be professional users (17%).

2.1.2 Habits of Use of the Drone

Generally speaking, the respondents who said they did fly their drones for both recreational purposes and work or research purposes, fly their drones on average 59% of the time for recreational purposes and 41% of the time professionally. Observable differences between drone owners and non-owners are not significant.

*Given the small number of respondents (n<30) data are presented for illustrative purposes only.

Figure 2. Answer to question 2: You indicated that you fly drones or model aircraft for both work or research and recreational purposes. Thinking about the total number of hours you fly, what is the percentage devoted to professional use versus recreational use? SPONTANEOUS ANSWERS Base: Respondents who fly drones for both recreational and professional purpose (n=50)

Of all the drone users, 14% indicate having a background in aviation, while 81% indicate they do not and 5% preferred not to answer.

Figure 3. Answer to question 27: Do you have a background in aviation (flying lessons, pilot license or anything related)? Base: Drone users (n=701)

The next tables (14-15) detail the background in aviation among drone users.

No statistical difference is observable between drone owners and non-owners on a background in aviation. However, there are significant statistical differences between those who fly their drone solely for professional or both professional and recreational purposes and other users of drones. Those who fly their drone solely for professional (25%) or both professional and recreational (30%) purposes are more likely than the other drone users to have a background in aviation.

Recreational users mainly fly their drone(s) for the fun of flying (70%) and 26% fly drones to film videos or take pictures.

Figure 4. Answer to question 3: How do you mainly use your drone or model aircraft? Base: Drone users who fly drones for recreational purposes (n=610)

The next table (16) details the recreational drone usage among drone users.

Drone owners are more likely to fly their drone(s) just for the fun of flying (73%), non-owners are less likely to fly drones just for the fun of flying (62%).

One out of four professional users (24%) mainly fly drones for filmmaking, videography or photography, and nearly one out of five mainly fly drones for agricultural purposes (are surveys or inspections) (17%), inspecting buildings, structures or roofs (area surveys, perimeter scans) (16%), and/or research/academic research purposes (16%).

Figure 5. Answer to question 5: What is your main reason for flying a drone or model aircraft for work or research? Base: Drone users who fly drones for both recreational and professional purposes (n=50)

The following table (Table 17) shows that there is no statistically significant difference between drone users who own drones and non-owners.

Generally, drone users mostly fly their drone(s) in a rural area (37%) or in suburban area (29%). About one-third of drone users (34%) fly their drone in an urban environment with a population of 100,000 or more.

Figure 6. Answer to question 4: Where do you most often fly your drone or model aircraft? MULTIPLE ANSWERS ALLOWED * Base: Drone users (n=701)

*Because respondents were able to give multiple answers, total mentions may exceed 100%.

The next tables (18-19) detail the preferred places to fly drones among drone users.

Users who fly drones for both recreational and professional purposes are more likely to fly their drone(s) in a suburban area (43%) while 41% of recreational drone users fly their drone(s) in a rural area.

*Because respondents were able to give multiple answers, total mentions may exceed 100%.

*Because respondents were able to give multiple answers, total mentions may exceed 100%.

Drone users mostly fly medium drones (over 250 grams but below 25kg) in urban settings (54%). About one out of ten drone users (11%) flies a large drone in urban areas, while three out of ten (31%) fly micro drones.

Figure 7. Answer to question 4A: What kind of drone do you use when flying in an urban setting? * Base: Drone users who fly in an urban area (n=246)

The next tables (20-21) detail the type of drone used in urban setting.

There is no statistically significant difference between owners and non-owners regarding the type of drone used in urban areas. There are, however, some statistical differences about the type of use of the drone, recreational or professional. Users who fly drones for both professional purposes are more likely to fly medium drones in an urban setting (21%) while recreational drone users are more likely to fly micro drones (under 250 grams).

2.1.3 Profile of Drone Owned

Generally, just under two-thirds of drone owners (65%) don't own more than one drone; almost two out of ten (20%) own two drones and less than one owner out of ten (6%) owns three drones or more.

Figure 8. Answer to question 6: How many drones or model aircraft do you currently own?SPONTANEOUS MENTIONS Base: Drone owners (n=506)

As shown in table 22, drone owners who fly drones for both professional and recreational purposes are more likely to own more than one drone. 45% of the drone owners who fly drones for both purposes said that they own two drones or more. On the other hand, drone owners who only fly drones for recreational purposes are more likely to only own one drone (70%).

As for the place of purchase, just under three-quarters of drone users bought their most used drone through a retail store (72%), whether it was in-store (40%) or online (33%). Other places of purchase are somewhat more marginal with less than 10% of respondents.

Figure 9. Answer to question 7: Thinking of the drone or model aircraft you now fly most often, where did you purchase it?Base: Drone owners (n=506)

Table 23 illustrates that recreational drone owners are more likely to have made an in-store purchase (44%). On their part, drone owners that fly drones for both recreational and professional reasons are more likely to have made their purchase online, through a website specializing in drones (16%).

When questioned about the make or brand of the drone they fly most often, 31% of the drone owners who did not build their drone themselves said they did not know what it was. DJI seems to be the most popular brand (17%), followed by Parrot (11%). 3DR (6%) and Syma (5%) are the most popular brands for those who use drones for both recreational and professional reasons.

Figure 10. Answer to question 8: What is the make or brand of your drone or model aircraft you fly most often?Base: Drone owners who did not build their drone themselves (n=499)

The following table shows that drone users who use their drone(s) professionally are more familiar with the brands of their drone(s) than recreational drone users. In fact, recreational drone users are more likely than other users not to know the brand of their drone(s).

*Given the small number of respondents (n<30) data are presented for illustrative purposes only.

Drone owners don't seem to know the weight of the drone they fly most often. When asked, 76% of drone users said they didn't know the weight of the drone they most often fly, even when given the choice to answer in metric or imperial system. For those who knew the weight of their drone, the average weight is 6.7 pounds [3.04 kg]. When looking at the answers given by recreational-only users, the average weight comes down to 3.3 pounds [1.5 kg]. The complete opposite happens when looking at the answers given by professional users: the average weight goes up to 27.0 pounds [12.25 kg]. Recreational drone owners are less likely to own a drone that weighs more than 5 pounds [2.27 kg] (3%).

Figure 11. Answer to question 9: Do you know the weight of your drone or model aircraft you fly most often? SPONTANEOUS ANSWERS Base: Drone owners (n=506)

In the following table, recreational drone users are more likely than other users not to know the weight of their drone(s), while users who always or occasionally use their drone(s) professionally are more likely to know the weight of the drone they fly most often. That said, a high proportion of drone users, for whatever reason they fly, do not know the weight of their drone.

2.1.4 Drone Clubs and Learning Techniques

Only 1% of drone users are part of a drone or model aircraft club or group. About one out of ten (15%) drone users said they are actively looking into joining one.

Figure 12. Answer to question 10: Do you currently belong to a drone or model aircraft club or group? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (26-27) detail the profile of drone user who are part of a club or group.

Membership in a club or group or an interest in joining such a group does not appear to be determined by whether or not a drone user owns their drone.  The difference between owners and non-owners is not significant. Drone users who are flying drones for professional purposes only are more likely to be looking into joining a club or group (36%), while recreational users are more likely to not belong to a model aircraft club or group (82%).

Just over one out of ten drone users have attended a drone flight school to learn how to operate a drone (12%), while eight out of ten (80%) said they have never attended a drone flight school to learn how to operate their drone.

Figure 13. Answer to question 11: Have you ever attended a drone flight school to learn how to operate a drone? New Questions in 2020 Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (28-29) detail the profile of drone user who attended a drone flight school.

Drone owners are more likely than non-owner to have attended a flight school (14% vs 6% respectively). Those who fly their drone professionally, either only professionally (29%) or both professionally and recreationally (49%) are more likely to have attended a flight school than those who fly their drone only recreationally (6%).

Out of drone users who admitted having enrolled in a drone-flying class (12%), 65% of them took an online class, while 33% of them attended a physical class (e.g. school, community centre).

Figure 14. Answer to question 12: You mentioned attending a drone-flying class. What kind of class was it? Base: Drone users who attended a drone-flying class (n=95)

2.1.5 Drone Pilot Certification and Safety Training

Even though the majority of drone users do not have a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada (73%), two out of ten drone users either have one (13%) or are in the process of obtaining one (9%).

Figure 15. Answer to question 13: Do you have a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (30-31) detail the profile of drone user who have a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada.

Drone owners are more likely than non-owners to have a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada (15%). Recreational users are less likely to have the certificate (9%) than those who fly drones for other reason. Professional drone users are more likely to have a drone pilot certificate (23%) or to be in the process of obtaining their certificate (17%). Users who fly drones for both purposes are also more likely to have a drone pilot certificate (44%).

Two-thirds of drone users who have a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada, found the process demanding to some degree (66%). 43% said they considered it “Somewhat demanding” and 23% stated they found it “Very demanding.”

Figure 16. Answer to question 13B: How did you find the drone pilot certification process? Base: Drone users who have drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada (n=100)

The next tables (32-33) detail the opinion about the process to obtain a drone pilot certificate by drone user profiles.

The following tables show that there is no significant difference according to drone user profile in respect to their opinion of the process to obtain a drone pilot certificate offered by the Government of Canada.

*Given the small number of respondents (n<30) data are presented for illustrative purposes only.

Nearly seven out of ten drone users (68%) have not received any training or seen any instructional videos specifically on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations; only one-quarter of drone users (25%) have seen such a video or received such training.

Figure 17. Answer to question 15: Have you ever received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (34-35) detail the profile of drone users who have ever received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations.

Drone owners are more likely to have received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety webpage (27%). Professional users and users who fly drones for both recreational and work or research purposes are more likely to be part of those who have received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations (34% and 66%, respectively).

It is also interesting to note that drone users who fly drones for both recreational and work or research purposes are more likely to not know if they have received such training or seen such instructional videos (12%).

The majority of drone users who received training or saw an instructional video specifically on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations, found it prepared them well for using a drone (86%), 54% indicated “Fairly good preparation” and 32% stated “Very good preparation.”

Figure 18. Answer to question 15B: You mentioned that you used training materials from Transport Canada. How well did the information from Transport Canada help you prepare for using a drone? Base: Drone users who received training or saw an instructional video specifcally on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations (n=189)

The following tables (36-37) show that there is no significant difference according to drone user profile in respect to their opinion about the information provided by Transport Canada in preparation for using a drone.

Table 37. Impact of Information from Transport Canada According to Purpose of Drone Usage

2.1.6 Information Sources and Transport Canada's Website Drone Pages Visits

More than a third of drone users (39%) said that they have searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft. However, about half (55%) of drone users mention that they did not seek or search for information about government regulations.

Figure 19. Answer to question 16: Have you ever sought or searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (38-39) detail the profile of drone user who have searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft.

Drone owners are more likely to have sought or searched for information on Canadian government regulations (42%). According to the purpose of drone usage, recreational users are less likely to have sought for information on Canadian government regulations (37%). As for users who fly drones for both recreational and work purposes, they are more likely to have sought for information on Canadian government regulations (64%).

Table 38. Having Searched for Information on Canadian Government Regulations Regarding Drones or Model Aircraft According to Type of Drone Users

Table 39. Having Searched for Information on Canadian Government Regulations Regarding Drones or Model Aircraft According to Purpose of Drone Usage

Drone users who stated that they have sought information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft, 61% of them did so using a search engine (e.g., Google, Bing, Yahoo, etc.), 57% visited the Government's website and 17% went directly on Transport Canada's website. Other sources, such as the Transport Canada website or Drone Safety website, trade publications or retailers were mentioned less by less than 20% of respondents.

Figure 20. Answer to question 17: Where did you go to find that information? Base: Drone users who searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft (n=284)

The next tables (40-41) detail the profile of drone users who searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft.

Based on the purpose of drone usage, drone users flying drones only professionally are less likely to have conducted a search engine query (30%), while recreational users are more likely to have done so (67%). As for users who fly drones for both purposes, they are more likely to have visited the Government of Canada website (74%), consulted a hobbyist publication, article or magazine for drone users (32%) or asked a specialized retailer—whether online or in-store—(22%).

Nearly three quarters of drone users (74%) who conducted a social media search used Instagram as the search platform.

Table 40. Source of Information on Canadian Government Regulations Regarding Drone and Model Aircraft According to Type of Drone Users

Table 41. Source of Information on Canadian Government Regulations Regarding Drone and Model Aircraft According to Purpose of Drone Usage

Among those who consulted social media, Instagram and Facebook were the sources most often mentioned by respondents.

Figure 21. Answer to question 17B: You mentioned that you found information regarding Canadian government regulations of drones or model aircraft through a social media search. Please specify which platform(s). MULTIPLE ANSWERS ALLOWED* Base: Drone users who searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft though a social media search (n=13**) *Because drone users were able to give multiple answers, total mentions may exceed 100%. **Given the small number of drone users (n<30) data are presented for illustrative purposes only.

2.1.7 Drones and Model Aircraft Regulations

In general, half of drone users think that they are not knowledgeable in regard to the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft (51%). When asked, 28% said they considered themselves “Not very knowledgeable” and 23% stated they were “Not at all knowledgeable,” only 11% considered they were “Very knowledgeable.”

Figure 22. Answer to question 20: How would you rate your level of knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (42-43) detail the level of knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft according to the profile of drone users.

Drone owners are more likely to have said that they are very knowledgeable (13%) than non-owners (6%). Users who only fly drones for recreational purposes are less likely to be knowledgeable (38%). On their side, drone users who fly drones professionally are more likely to be knowledgeable (58%), as are those who fly drones for both purposes (72%).

Table 42. Level of Knowledge of the Transport Canada Regulations on Drones and Model Aircraft According to Type of Drone Users

Table 43. Level of Knowledge of the Transport Canada Regulations on Drones and Model Aircraft According to Purpose of Drone Usage

Six out of ten (59%) drone users think that they are knowledgeable in regard to drones in general, 47% said they considered themselves “Somewhat knowledgeable” and 12% stated they were “Very knowledgeable.”

Figure 23. Answer to question 20A: What would you say is your level of knowledge of drones in general? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (44-45) detail the level of knowledge of drone users about drones in general.

Drone owners (62%) are more likely to consider themselves knowledgeable about drone in general than non-owners (50%). Drone users who only fly drones for both recreational and professional purposes are more likely than the other users to consider themselves knowledgeable (81%).

Table 44. Level of Knowledge of Drones in General According to Type of Drone Users

Table 45. Level of Knowledge of Drones in General According to Purpose of Drone Usage

Nearly two thirds of drone users feel their knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircrafts has remained the same over the last year (63%).

Figure 24. Answer to question 20B: Has your level of knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft increased, stayed the same or decreased over last year? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (46-47) detail the evolution of knowledge about Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft over the last year.

Non-owners (12%) are more likely to indicate that their knowledge has decreased, while those who fly for both recreational and professional purposes are more likely to indicate that it has increased (41%). Drone users who fly only for recreational purpose are more likely to think their level of knowledge stayed the same over the last year.

Table 46. Level of Knowledge of the Transport Canada Regulations on Drones and Model Aircraft Over the Last Year According to Type of Drone Users

Table 47. Level of Knowledge of the Transport Canada Regulations on Drones and Model Aircraft Over the Last Year According to Purpose of Drone Usage

At least half of drone users indicate being aware of each of the rules regarding drones or model aircraft currently enforced in Canada, with the greatest proportion (70%) being aware that they must operate ‘far away from other aircraft (don't fly anywhere near airplanes, helicopters and other drones).

The three regulations with the highest awareness among drone users are the following:

1. Far away from other aircraft (Don't fly anywhere near airplanes, helicopters and other drones) (70%)
2. Away from airports and heliports (5.6 kilometres (3 nautical miles) from airports) (1.9 kilometres (1 nautical mile) from heliports) (67%)
3. Outside controlled airspace (for basic operations only) (64%)

The regulations with the lowest level of awareness among drone users are:

1. Where you can see it at all times (58%)
2. Away from bystanders, at a minimum horizontal distance of 30 metres for basic operations (58%)
3. Below 122 metres (400 feet) in the air (50%)

Figure 25. Answer to question 21: Were you aware of the following rules on drones or model aircraft currently enforced in Canada? ONLY YES MENTIONS SHOWN Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (48-49) detail the level of awareness of rules on drones or model aircraft by drone user profile.

As might be expected, drone users who are owners, generally are more likely to be aware of the current rules compared to non-owners. Recreational users are generally more likely than professional users to be aware of each of the rules surrounding drones and model aircrafts currently enforced in Canada.

Table 48. Awareness of Rules on Drones or Model Aircraft Currently Enforced in Canada According to Type of Drone Users

Table 49. Awareness of Rules on Drones or Model Aircraft Currently Enforced in Canada According to Type of Drone Users

Generally, each of the current aspects of the Federal government legislation, in relation to who can fly drones and how or where they can be flown, improve drone users' perceptions of drone safety. The two regulations with the strongest positive impact on the perception of drone safety are:

1. Drones can only be flown outside controlled airspace (46%)
2. Drones can only be flown at least 5.6 km from any airport and at least 1.9 km from any heliport (45%)

The two regulations that have the least positive impact on the perception of drone safety are:

1. Drone operators must have a Transport Canada Special Flight Operations certificates, unless they are exempt if their operation is considered low-risk** (40%)
2. Only drones that are registered with Transport Canada can be legally flown in Canada (39%)

These are also the two rules that have the most negative effect on the perception of drone safety. Respectively 11% and 12% of drone users consider that these rules reduce their perception of drone safety.

Figure 26. Answer to question 21A: Right now, Federal government legislation regulates who can fly drones and how or where they can be flown.  Please indicate if the following aspects of that legislation improves or undermines your perception of drone safety in your area? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (50-51) detail the impact of regulations on the perception of drone safety by drone user profile.

No statistical difference is observable depending on whether the drone user is the owner of his drone. Recreational users are more likely than professional users to indicate their perceptions of drone safety are improved by each of the aspects.

Table 50. Impact of Legislation on Perceptions of Drone Safety According to Type of Drone Users

Table 51. Impact of Legislation on Perceptions of Drone Safety According to Type of Drone Users

Drone users are most comfortable with drones being deployed in emergency scenarios to help save people, like in search and rescue operations (72%), followed by being used to deliver parcels (53%), instead of by delivery personnel. Users are least comfortable with the idea of drones being used to transport people like a taxi service (37%) and autonomous drones that are driven by computers, just like autonomous vehicles that might soon be on roads (39%).

Figure 27. Answer to question 21B: Some people feel that, in the future, drones will become more commonplace and put to different uses. Please tell me if you would be comfortable with these types of uses of drones in the near future. Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (52-53) detail the level of comfort with future use of drone by drone user profile.

Drone owners are generally more likely than non-owners to indicate that they would be comfortable with all potential uses of drones except for “drones could be used to deliver a meal from a nearby restaurant”. There is no difference for this particular future use of drones depending on whether the user owns its drone or not. Drone users who operate their drone professionally are less likely to feel comfortable (49%) with “drones could be deployed in emergency scenarios to help save people, like in search and rescue operations” than those who operate it for recreational purposes (77%).

Table 52. Future Comfort with Types of Drone Usage According to Type of Drone Users

Table 53. Future Comfort with Types of Drone Usage According to Type of Drone Users

2.1.8 Communications Channels

Two out of ten drone users indicate that the best way for Transport Canada to communicate relevant information to drone users in Canada regarding safely flying their drone would be through social media (22%), followed by online (19%), and/or television ads (17%). The least effective channels identified by respondents for reaching them are information at point of purchase / included with purchase (1%), direct mail / flyers / pamphlets (0%) and print/news media (0%).

Figure 28. Answer to question 25: If Transport Canada wanted to make sure that you came across all relevant information regarding safely flying your drone in Canada, what is the best way for them to get that information to you? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (54-55) detail the best way to get information about drone by drone user profile.

Recreational drone users are more likely to indicate a preference for social media, television advertising campaigns and the Transport Canada website. Those who fly their drone professionally prefer advertising on specialized websites and collaboration with influencers. Those who only fly their drone professionally are also more likely to have mentioned advertising in specialized retailers (in-store) to reach them.

Table 54. Best Way to Get Information to Drone Users According to Type of Drone Users

Table 55. Best Way to Get Information to Drone Users According to Purpose of Drone Usage

Two out of ten drone users who look for the latest trends about drones and model aircraft will do so on the Internet through a search engine (21%). YouTube channels (10%) are also a source of information for drone users, as well as social media platforms, whether it is Facebook or any other (6%).

Figure 29. Answer to question 28: Where do you go to find the latest trends about drones and model aircraft? Base: Drone users(n=701)

The next tables (56-57) detail the best way to get information about drone by drone user profile.

There are no significant differences between drone owners or non-owners on this issue. Drone users who use their drones recreationally are more likely than others to prefer Google and the Internet in general to follow the latest trends on drones.

Table 56. Source of Information for the Latest Trends About Drones and Model Aircraft According to Type of Drone Users

Table 57. Source of Information for the Latest Trends About Drones and Model Aircraft According to Purpose of Drone Usage

2.2 General Public (Non-Users)

2.2.1 Profiling

Over three-quarters of Canadians (78%) do not, nor does another person in their household, currently own a drone or model aircraft. However, one quarter (24%) of non-users indicate knowing someone close to them, friend or family, who flies a drone, either professionally or casually. Three in ten non-users indicate being in a place within the past 12-months where a drone or drones were flying overhead or nearby (30%). 35% indicate that prior to this occurrence(s) they were in a place where a drone or drones were flying overhead or nearby.

Figure 30. Answer to question 1A: Do you know a person close to you, friend or family, who flies a drone, either professionally or casually?? Base: Non-users(n=1,799)

Half (50%) of non-users are concerned with drones being flown safely, 12% being very concerned.

Figure 31. Answer to question 1B: How concerned are you about drones being flown safely? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (60) details the level of concern about drone being flown safely among drone users and non-users.

Drone users (59%) are more likely that non-users (50%) to express concern around drones being flown safely. Drone users are also more likely to be very concerned (59%) about that than non-users (12%).

Table 58. Concern Regarding Drones Being Flown Safely According to Type of Drone Users

Among non-users of drones, the main concern is privacy issues (13%). This main issue is followed by aviation risks (7%) or the loss of control due to inexperienced pilots (6%) or possible injuries (6%) caused by a crashing drone.

Figure 32. Answer to question 1C: What is the main reason why you are [insert level of concern from Q1B] about drone safety? Base: Non-users who are concerned with drone safety (n=1,922)

The next table (61) details the main reason of concern about drone safety among drone users and non-users.

Non-users' reasons for concern regarding drone safety varies, with the greatest proportion citing ‘privacy issues' (13%). This concern is statistically different from drone users (9%). Most of the other concerns are similar between users and non-users.

Table 59. Reasons for Concern About Drone Safety According to Type of Drone Users

Two-thirds (65%) of non-users are concerned about potential privacy issues related to drones with cameras. Drone users (11%) are more likely than non-users (7%) to express not being concerned at all regarding privacy issues.

Figure 33. Answer to question 1DD: How concerned are you about potential privacy issues related to drones equipped with cameras? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (62) detail the level of concern about privacy issues among drone users and non-users.

The level of concern about this issue is similar between the two profiles. However, drone users (11%) are more likely than non-users (7%) to express not being concerned at all regarding privacy issues.

Table 60. Concern About Potential Privacy Issues Related to Drones with Cameras Among Drone Users and Non-Users

Nearly one out of five (17%) non-users are comfortable with a professionally operated drone being close enough to identify them. However, more than three-quarters of non-users would be uncomfortable with this. In fact, more than half (52%) of them would not be comfortable with it at all.

Figure 34. Answer to question 1EE: How comfortable would you be if a drone piloted by a professional user was close enough to identify you in the pictures or videos they take? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (63) detail the level of comfort about being identified in pictures or videos taken by a drone piloted by a professional user among drone users and non-users.

Drone users (38%) are more likely than non-users (17%) to be comfortable with a professionally operated drone being close enough to identify them. They are more likely to be very or somewhat comfortable that the non-users.

Table 61. Comfort with a Professionally Operated Drone Being Close Enough to Identify You Among Drone Users and Non-Users

The results on this subject are quite similar if the drone would be piloted by a recreational user and not a professional user. The few variations observed are not significant and the general trends are the same, respondents being, for the most part, not comfortable at all. 14% of non-users are comfortable with a recreationally operated drone being close enough to identify them while more than three-quarters would be uncomfortable. Again, this is more than half of the non-users (56%) who would be uncomfortable with a drone being operated close enough to be identified in the photos or videos.

Figure 35. Answer to question 1F: How comfortable would you be if a drone piloted by a recreational user was close enough to identify you in the pictures or videos they take? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (64) details the level of comfort with being identified in pictures or videos taken by a drone piloted by a recreational user among drone users and non-users.

Drone users (36%) are more likely than non-users (14%) to be comfortable with a professionally operated drone being close enough to identify them.

Table 62. Comfort with a Recreationally Operated Drone Being Close Enough to Identify You According to Type of Drone Users

2.2.2 Drone Clubs and Learning Techniques

Less than 1% of non-users are part of a drone or model aircraft club or group.

Figure 36. Answer to question 10: Do you currently belong to a drone or model aircraft club or group? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (65) details belonging to a club or a group of drone users among drone users and non-users.

Drone users (1%) are more likely than non-users (0%) to belong to a club or group of drone users. Users are also more likely (15%) to be looking to join a club or group than non-users (1%).

Table 63. Being Part of a Drone or a Model Aircraft Club or Group According to Type of Drone Users

2.2.3 Drone Pilot Certification and Safety Training

Even though nearly all non-users do not have a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada (98%), 1% are in the process of obtaining one.

Figure 37. Answer to question 13: Do you have a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (66) detail the holding of a drone pilot certificate issued by the Government of Canada among drone users and non-users.

Drone users (13%) are more likely than non-users (0%) to have a drone pilot certificate. Users are also more likely (9%) to be in the process of obtaining a drone pilot certificate than non-users (1%).

Table 64. Having a Drone Pilot Certificate Issued by the Government of Canada According to Type of Drone Users

One out of ten (10%) of non-users who have someone in their household who is a drone user, cite that they have received training or seen an instructional video specifically on Transport Canada's Drone Safety Regulations.

Figure 38. Answer to question 15: Have you ever received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations? Base: Non-users, who have someone who is a drone user in their household(n=145)

The next table (67) details the proportion of Canadians who have received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations.

Drone users (25%) are more likely than non-users (10%) to have received training or seen an instructional video on Transport Canada's drone safety regulations.

Table 65. Having Received a Training or Seen an Instructional Video Specifically on Transport Canada's Drone Safety Regulations According to Type of Drone Users

2.2.4 Information Sources and Transport Canada's Website Drone Pages Visits

Generally speaking, 74% of non-users mention that they did not seek or search for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft.

Figure 39. Answer to question 16: Have you ever sought or searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft? Non-users, who have someone who is a drone user in their household(n=145)

The next table (68) details the proportion of Canadians who searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft.

Drone users (39%) are more likely than non-users (25%) to have searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft.

Table 66. Having Searched for Information on Canadian Government Regulations Regarding Drones or Model Aircraft According to Type of Drone Users

Three-quarters of non-users who stated that they have sought information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft did so using a search engine (e.g., Google, Bing, Yahoo, etc.) (74%), followed by 53% who visited the Government's website. Other sources of information were mentioned to a lesser extent by respondents.

Figure 40.  Answer to question 17: Where did you go to find that information? Base: Non-users who searched for information on Canadian government regulations regarding drones or model aircraft (n=38)

The next table (69) details the place where the information on regulations was searched for among users and non-users.

The table indicates that there are no statistically significant differences between the two subgroups in the sample. The preferred sources are the same.

Table 67. Source of Information on Canadian Government Regulations Regarding Drone and Model Aircraft According to Type of Drone Users

2.2.5 Drones and Model Aircraft Regulations

Nearly one out of five (18%) non-users feel knowledgeable about drones in general. About half (45%) of non-drone users consider themselves not to be at all knowledgeable about drones.

Figure 41. Answer to question 20A: What would you say is your level of knowledge of drones in general? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (70) details the level of knowledge of drones in general among users and non-users.

As might be expected, drone users (59%) are more likely than non-users (18%), to feel knowledgeable about drones in general.

Table 68. Level of Knowledge of Drones in General According to Type of Drone Users

Few (7%) non-users feel knowledgeable of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft. Six out of ten (60%) non-users say they are not knowledgeable at all about this.

Figure 42. Answer to question 20: How would you rate your level of knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (71) details the level of knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft among users and non-users.

Drone users (43%) are more likely than non-users (7%), to feel knowledgeable about the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft.

Table 69. Level of Knowledge of the Transport Canada Regulations on Drones and Model Aircraft According to Type of Drone Users

Nearly three quarters (73%) of non-users feel their knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircrafts has remained the same over the last year.

Figure 43. Answer to question 20B: Has your level of knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft increased, stayed the same or decreased over last year? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (72) details the evolution over last year of level of knowledge of the Transport Canada regulations on drones and model aircraft among users and non-users.

Drone users are more likely than non-users to feel their level of knowledge increased (19%) or decreased (6%) over the last year. Non-users are more likely to have said that their level of knowledgeable stayed the same.

Table 70. Level of Knowledge of the Transport Canada Regulations on Drones and Model Aircraft Over the Last Year According to Type of Drone Users

The greatest proportion (45%) of non-users indicate being aware that drones must operate ‘far away from other aircraft (don't fly anywhere near airplanes, helicopters and other drones)', and/or ‘away from airports and heliports (5.6 kilometres (3 nautical miles) from airports) (1.9 kilometres (1 nautical mile) from heliports) (44%). These are the two regulations that have the highest awareness among non-users.

Figure 44. Answer to question 21: Were you aware of the following rules on drones or model aircraft currently enforced in Canada? ONLY YES MENTIONS SHOWN Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (73) details the awareness of rules on drones and model aircraft among users and non-users.

Users are more likely than non-users to be aware of all regulations around drones and model aircrafts. The observed differences in awareness between the two subgroups in the sample are quite large, ranging from 44 to 23 percentage points, depending on the regulation being assessed.

Table 71. Awareness of Rules on Drones or Model Aircraft Currently Enforced in Canada According to Type of Drone Users

The three regulations evaluated in the survey that have the most positive impact on the perception of non-users are:

1. A drone must always be kept within visual line of sight (49%)
2. Drone operators must have a Transport Canada Special Flight Operations certificates, unless they are exempt if their operation is considered low risk** (49%)
3. Only drones that are registered with Transport Canada can be legally flown in Canada (48%).

The three regulations evaluated in the survey that have the least positive influence on the perception of non-users about drone safety are:

1. Drones can only be flown at least 5.6 km from any airport and at least 1.9 km from any heliport (41%)
2. Drones can only be flown at least 9 km from any natural hazard or disaster area (34%)
3. Drones cannot be flown higher than 300* feet (90m) from the ground (30%)

Figure 45. Answer to question 21A: Right now, Federal government legislation regulates who can fly drones and how or where they can be flown.  Please indicate if the following aspects of that legislation improves or undermines your perception of drone safety in your area? Base: Non-users(n=2,002)

The next table (74) details the influence of rules on drones and model aircraft on perception about drone safety among users and non-users.

Non-users are more likely to indicate that ‘a drone must always be kept within visual line of sight' (49%), ‘drone operators must have a Transport Canada Special Flight Operations certificates, unless they are exempt if their operation is considered low-risk**' (49%), and ‘only drones that are registered with Transport Canada can be legally flown in Canada' (48%) improves their perception of drone safety when compared to drone users (44%, 40%, 39% respectively).

Table 72. Impact of Legislation on Perceptions of Drone Safety According to Type of Drone Users