Landing Zones will be attending CANSEC in Ottawa (27-28 May 2026). If you are interested in what the team is up to while we attend, please reach out to info@landingzones.com to arrange a meeting.

Landing Zones Canada will be walking the floor and attending panels at the Alberta Aviation Aerospace & Defence Summit in Edmonton, Alberta (3-5 May, 2026). We look forward to meeting with industry experts and participants to explore the future of aviation, aerospace and defence in Alberta. If you would like to arrange a meeting to see what the team is up to, please let us know at info@landingzones.com

Landing Zones will be attending DEFSEC West in Calgary (24-26 March 2026). If you are interested in what the team is up to while we attend, please reach out to info@landingzones.com to arrange a meeting.

Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative investment will help Landing Zones Canada develop and commercialize new artificial intelligence technologies used in Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems

Across North America and around the globe, atmospheric weather data collection relies on single-use weather balloons to collect data, which are difficult to recover, create significant waste, and increase costs for researchers, governments and businesses.

Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) announced support for Landing Zones Canada to develop, deploy and commercialize new artificial intelligence technologies that have the potential to revolutionize atmospheric weather sampling while supporting defence applications. This is a repayable federal investment of $1,161,500 under the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII).

This federal support will help Landing Zones Canada enhance the capabilities of its innovative GITPO Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) product. GITPO is an innovative device that has the potential to revolutionize atmospheric weather sampling, in that it is engineered for high-altitude use and relies on artificial intelligence to autonomously return to base, addressing the environmental and operational inefficiencies of single-use weather balloons. RAII funding will allow Landing Zones Canada to further refine and optimize this product by incorporating the latest artificial intelligence technology.

The artificial intelligence, machine learning, and drone advancements supported through this investment demonstrate how Alberta companies are turning innovative technologies into practical solutions with both civilian and defence applications.

This strategic investment through RAII advances the Government of Canada’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy, while ensuring the country stays at the forefront in the development and application of artificial intelligence technologies.

Quotes

“Artificial intelligence is creating a real revolution around the world, and Alberta businesses are not just keeping up – they’re leading the way in innovation and the development of dual-use technologies that solve real-world challenges and strengthen Canada’s sovereignty. Our new government continues to invest in businesses harnessing AI to bring new, more sustainable solutions to market. Today’s investment in Landing Zones Canada is a clear example of a forward-looking investment, creating good jobs and positioning Canada for continued AI and defence leadership.”
The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)

“Across Alberta, innovators are turning artificial intelligence into practical solutions that strengthen our economy and reduce environmental impact. That’s exactly the kind of applied AI Canada needs more of — technology that solves real-world challenges while creating good jobs. Through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, we’re helping Canadian businesses scale advanced AI technologies, compete in global markets, and build the sovereign digital capacity that will anchor Canada’s next chapter of growth.”
The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“I am extremely thankful to the Government of Canada for its leadership in supporting innovative AI solutions. Few Canadians know that current radiosondes and ozone sondes are single-use devices, with over 600,000 launched annually worldwide, and in Canada they litter 24% of our vast landmass, creating the world’s largest source of e-waste from meteorological monitoring. Our reusable GITPO drone provides a sustainable alternative, and this RAII funding will greatly accelerate our ability to deploy this solution here in Canada and for export.”
Spencer Fraser, Founder and CEO, Landing Zones Canada Inc.

• In Budget 2024 The Government of Canada announced $2.4 billion to secure Canada’s artificial intelligence advantage, including investments to accelerate job growth in Canada’s artificial intelligence sector, boost productivity by helping researchers and businesses develop and adopt artificial intelligence and ensure artificial intelligence adoption is done responsibly.

• PrairiesCan received $33.8 million over five years to deliver the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII), beginning in 2024–25.

• PrairiesCan continues to accept RAII applications with applicants encouraged to submit expressions of interest as soon as possible for consideration under this initiative.

• RAII funding for Landing Zones Canada is expected to support 12 jobs, generate significant revenue and reduce environmental and operational inefficiencies of current atmospheric weather sampling practices.

About Landing Zones Canada Inc.:

Landing Zones Canada Inc. specializes in the design, development, production, and employment of advanced uncrewed aerial systems for both the civil and defence sectors. The company is actively engaged in initiatives related to weather data measurement and advanced air defence training.

For further information or media inquiries, please contact Landing Zones:
info@landingzones.com

Landing Zones Canada is very pleased to receive the Regional Innovation Champion Award from the AS Tech Awards. LZC recognizes the exceptional work done by the team which has propelled the company into the position to receive such a prestigious award. For more information behind our activity and efforts please reach out to info@landingzones.com.

Landing Zones Canada Inc., a trailblazer in the Canadian aerospace industry, proudly announces the successful completion of its latest test flight campaign for the GITPO Remotely Piloted Aerial System (RPAS). This milestone not only signifies a leap in drone technology but also introduces a groundbreaking solution to one of Canada’s most overlooked environmental challenges: e-waste from meteorological equipment. 

The E-Waste Conundrum:

Most Canadians are unaware that the Federal Government is responsible for a significant portion of e-waste across our nation’s landscapes. Twice daily, from 30 stations nationwide, the government launches single-use Radiosondes, totaling over 20,000 annually. These devices, critical for weather forecasting, consist of hazardous materials like PCBs, batteries, and plastics, which litter our pristine environments after use. 

GITPO RPAS: The Solution: 

The GITPO RPAS is not merely a drone; it’s a revolutionary approach to environmental sustainability. Unlike traditional Radiosondes, the GITPO is launched by balloon but returns autonomously to its base for reuse, drastically reducing e-waste. Engineered to withstand Canada’s harsh conditions, the GITPO RPAS has demonstrated its capabilities during test flights over Southeastern Alberta, showcasing precision and reliability. 

Statement from the Founder:

“With the GITPO RPAS, we’re not just flying drones; we’re flying towards a future where technology and environmental responsibility are intertwined,” said Spencer Fraser, Founder & CEO of Landing Zones Canada Inc. “This is our commitment to a cleaner planet, offering a sustainable alternative to supplant the 600,000 single-use systems used worldwide every year!” 

Statement from the Alberta Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

 “We need to embrace modern tools and technology like this to protect, conserve and manage our environment. Drones offer a unique, bird’s-eye view that can help monitor ecosystems, track wildlife, and manage natural resources with more and more precision. Alberta is proud to support development of this technology as we reduce waste and keep growing the economy,” said The Honourable Rebbeca Schulz.

Acknowledgments:

Landing Zones Canada Inc. extends its appreciation to the Government of Alberta and Alberta Innovates for their pivotal support. “Alberta has proven to be the ideal location for drone development and testing in Canada, and we are immensely grateful for the support from the Provincial Government,” added Fraser. 

Recognition of MSC:

Fraser also praised the Meteorological Service of Canada (MSC), “The MSC staff are exemplary, leading global efforts towards sustainability in meteorology. Their research has highlighted the urgent need for solutions like GITPO.” 

Next Steps: 

As we approach the commercialization phase, we invite federal government leaders, environmentalists, and tech aficionados to join us in this transformative journey. For further insights, visit our explainer video at https://youtu.be/3NpFNq-8EPc or contact us at info@landingzones.com. 

About Landing Zones Canada:

Landing Zones Canada Inc. stands at the forefront of drone innovation, focusing on environmental and specialized applications. Our dedication to innovation and excellence aims to redefine the capabilities of drone technology. 

The agreement include the Do-DT45neo, a next gen high-speed aerial target for land, naval and air force markets, featuring aerodynamic improvements and new engines

Landing Zones Canada and Airbus Defence and Space are proud to announce a ground-breaking Cooperation Agreement that leverages the extensive expertise of both organizations in designing, developing, and employing high-performance Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS) for live training. With a shared history of excellence, this collaboration will extend each company’s reach for both national and international markets.  Amongst the portfolio of existing Airbus Defence and Space Direct Targets, this commitment also includes the Do-DT45neo target system; a next-generation high-speed aerial target for land, naval and air force markets. The Do-DT45neo features new engines for greater speed, aerodynamic improvements that improve its maneuverability, and improved mission planning features that permit swarms and high-G evasive maneuvers.

Spencer Fraser, Founder and CEO of Landing Zones Canada, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Our team at Landing Zones Canada is thrilled about the establishment of this new Cooperation Agreement with Airbus Defence and Space. With a wealth of common experience on similar platforms spanning several decades, our staffs are eager to work together once again to provide advanced and cost-effective training solutions for the Canadian Armed Forces here in Canada and abroad.”

Highlighting Airbus’ recent track record as a leading provider of advanced training solutions for the Canadian Armed Forces, Fraser added, “Airbus has consistently delivered top-tier training solutions to the CAF, recently conducting two very successful air defence exercises for the Royal Canadian Navy and its Allies in the U.S. and Europe.”

“This relationship with Landing Zones is an important step to operationally support the RCN and the Canadian Army for their Air Defence Training needs as well as the RCAF for its Air-To-Air training requirements…all of which can be done here in Canada cost-effectively.” Scott Hendry, Director of Business Development for Canada at Airbus Defence and Space, stated.

About Landing Zones Canada Inc.:

Landing Zones Canada Inc. specializes in the design, development, production, and employment of advanced uncrewed aerial systems for both the civil and defence sectors. The company is actively engaged in initiatives related to weather data measurement and advanced air defence training.

For further information or media inquiries, please contact Landing Zones:
info@landingzones.com