Manitoba RCMP are reminding drone pilots of potential dangers while flying drones in the vicinity of first responders after dealing with a recent situation that delayed the landing of a STARS helicopter.

This past week RCMP officers were at the scene of a serious traffic collision, when a drone was observed flying over the scene. The drone in the air led to STARS air ambulance being delayed as it could not land. Fortunately in this case, the delay did not have serious consequences to operations at the scene.

Officers have yet to identify the operator, but would like to take this opportunity to remind the public, that operating a drone in an area where police and first responders are attending could interfere with life-saving measures, and can result in a fine of up to $1000.

The use of remotely piloted aircraft systems or “drones,” is regulated by Transport Canada under the Canadian Aviation Regulations. These regulations include that the drone must be operated:

  • below 90 m above the ground
  • at least 30 m away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your drone weighs more than 250 g up to 1 kg)
  • at least 75 m away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your drone weighs more than 1 kg up to 35 kg)
  • at least 5.5 km away from aerodromes (any airport, seaplane base, or areas where aircraft take-off and land)
  • at least 1.8 km away from heliports or aerodromes used by helicopters only
  • outside of controlled or restricted airspace
  • at least 9 km away from a natural hazard or disaster area
  • away from areas where operation could interfere with fire fighters, police or first responders
  • during the day and not in clouds or smoke
  • within your sight at all times
  • within 500 m of yourself or closer
  • must be clearly marked with your name, address and phone number

A complete set of rules, regulations and requirements can be found at tc.canada.ca.

“In an emergency, it is imperative that all necessary resources are able to respond,” said Corporal Ryan Cadotte of the Manitoba RCMP Remotely Piloted Aircraft System unit. “I urge all drone pilots to be responsible and ensure they know and follow all regulations under the Canadian Aviation Regulations. These regulations are in place for everyone’s safety.”