Residents in Dawson City have a new local option to earn their commercial drone pilot certification this summer, as Yukon University hosts its first-ever drone training program. The courses will be held at the Dawson Campus in June 2026, saving local operators from needing to travel to Whitehorse for similar training.
The training is split into two separate levels, each priced at $1,895 and running daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Level 1 takes place from June 1 to 5, 2026, and covers a 20-hour Transport Canada-accredited ground school. This initial level includes hands-on flight training and an exam, which qualifies graduates to operate standard commercial drones under 25 kilograms within their visual line of sight.
For those looking to expand their skills, Level 2 runs from June 8 to 12, 2026. This advanced portion prepares operators to fly larger drones weighing up to 150 kilograms. It also covers procedures for flying beyond a pilot’s visual line of sight, an area of aviation that saw new regulations from Transport Canada come into effect on November 4, 2025. These skills are particularly relevant for local industries like mining, mapping, surveying, and search-and-rescue.
The program is designed to support the local economy in Dawson City, where industries like gold mining and tourism are primary drivers. Companies such as GroundTruth Exploration have long utilized drone technology for mineral exploration, and the new certification pathways may open up further opportunities for local workers, filmmakers, and outdoor guides.
Space in the program is limited to 16 participants. Residents interested in registering can call 867-993-8800 or send an email to dawsoncampus@yukonu.ca.
