An incident involving a drone flying too close for comfort to two float planes in Vancouver Harbour is prompting a warning from the Vancouver Police.
Brian Montague with the Vancouver Police says they received calls on Oct. 2 about a man and woman flying a drone near the Jack Poole Plaza and over the float plane docks.
“Obviously there is a concern for planes and helicopters landing and taking off in the area and the drones are a significant hazard,” Montague told Global News. “It is also illegal to fly a drone in those circumstances.”
A report filed by Transport Canada suggests the two float planes involved were commercial turbo prop engines belonging to West Coast Air and Harbour Air. Both planes were about to land when the drone was detected and both were cautioned about it. None of the planes sustained any damage.
Transport Canada says drones must be flown at least nine kilometres from aerodromes, including airports, heliports and seaplane bases, to remain clear of manned aircraft and most control zones. It also says all aerodromes should be considered “No Drone Zones” if the operator doesn’t have a special permit.
READ MORE: Regulation, legality and safety of drones
Montague says their officers located and spoke with the couple, who were visiting from New Zealand and were unfamiliar with the area and laws.
They were informed of the hazards of their drone’s flight path and the requirements by Transport Canada regarding the legal use of drones.
The couple was apologetic, and no charges were recommended.
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