Vancouver, BC – The Vancouver Police Department is issuing a warning to the public after a drone was caught in the flight path of Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on Monday.
According to authorities, the drone was spotted by a pilot around 4:30 p.m. and was flying at an altitude of approximately 1,500 feet. The pilot immediately reported the incident to air traffic control, who then alerted the police.
The drone was reportedly flying near the airport’s south runway, which is a designated area for aircraft to take off and land. This caused significant concern for the safety of the aircraft and passengers on board.
Sergeant Steve Addison of the Vancouver Police Department stated, “This is a very serious matter and could have had potentially devastating consequences. Drones are not allowed to fly within 5.6 kilometers of any airport or heliport, and this incident clearly violated that rule.”
The police are now urging the public to be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding drone usage. Under Transport Canada’s regulations, drones must be flown at least 30 meters away from people, vehicles, and buildings, and must not be flown higher than 90 meters.
In addition, drones must not be flown in restricted airspace, such as near airports, military bases, or national parks. Violating these regulations can result in fines of up to $25,000 and even jail time.
The Vancouver Police Department is reminding drone owners to always fly their devices safely and responsibly. “We understand that drones can be a fun and exciting hobby, but it is important to remember that they can also pose a serious threat to the safety of others,” said Sgt. Addison.
The incident at YVR serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of irresponsible drone usage. The police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with their investigation.
In the meantime, the Vancouver Police Department is working closely with Transport Canada and YVR to ensure the safety of all aircraft and passengers. They are also reminding the public to always follow the rules and regulations when operating a drone to avoid any potential disasters.
