Pilot’s near miss with drone in Vernon prompts warning | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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Pilot’s near miss with drone in Vernon prompts warning

Image Credit: wikimedia commons

VERNON - The City of Vernon is reminding people not to use drones or model aircrafts near airports.

“Last week, a pilot flying out of the Vernon Airport reported a near miss with a drone above Vernon. This is a safety concern and the incident has been reported to Transport Canada,” the City says in a release issued Monday, June 12.

Drone, UAV and or model aircraft use near airports is not permitted and could lead to compromised safety of aircraft pilots and passengers, the City states.

Drones weighing more than 250 grams may not be operated within nine kilometres of an airport, heli-port, water aerodrome, or anywhere aircraft take off and land, no higher than 90 metres above ground, and no closer than 75 metres from buildings, vehicles, vessels and crowds, according to the City.

“Always follow basic safety rules when using a drone. Not doing so may put lives, aircraft and property at risk. If you fly where you are not allowed or choose not to follow any of the rules above, you could face fines of up to $3,000,” the city says.

According to Transport Canada, you may not fly your drone:

  •   higher than 90 metres above the ground
  •   closer than 75 metres from buildings, vehicles, vessels, animals, people/crowds
  •   closer than nine kilometres from the centre of an aerodrome (any airport, heliport, seaplane base or anywhere that aircraft take-off and land)
  •   within controlled or restricted airspace
  •   within nine kilometres of a forest fire
  •   where it could interfere with police or first responders
  •   at night or in clouds
  •   if you can’t keep it in sight at all times
  •   if you are not within 500 metres of your drone
  •   if your name, address, and telephone number are not clearly marked on your drone.

Click here for more information about drone regulations.


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