Man issued violation notices in relation to unauthorized drone use in restricted airspace

One man has been issued an administrative monetary penalty for contravention of Part IX of the Canadian Aviation Regulations after failing to abide by the mandatory airspace restriction that is currently in effect during the Calgary Stampede.

From Friday, July 5, to Monday, July 15, 2024, all aircraft including Remote Pilot Aircraft Systems (RPAS) are prohibited from operating within one-nautical-mile radius from the centre of the Calgary Stampede grounds to a height of 450 ft. above ground level, between 5 a.m. and 3 a.m. Limited and pre-approved exceptions include drone use for law enforcement and event management purposes.

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) RPAS enforcement team, who are authorized by the Minister of Transport to conduct investigations and inspect RPAS and related flight documents under Part IX of the Canadian Aviation Regulations, began investigating after several reported incidents involving unauthorized drones operating in the restricted airspace surrounding and within the Calgary Stampede grounds, caused unsafe disruptions and delays to events.

On Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at approximately 11:10 p.m., the CPS RPAS enforcement team located a man who was observed flying a drone within the Calgary Stampede grounds during the Stampede’s drone and fireworks show, causing disruption to the show and crowd safety concerns.

As a result, Jordan MITCHELL, 24, was issued violation notices under the Administrative Monetary Penalty program for operating a drone in a manner that was endangering public and aviation safety.

Under Canadian aviation regulations, unauthorized drone use could result in jail time if deemed criminal in nature or up to a $3,000 fine for putting aircraft and citizens at risk.

Drones can seriously impact aviation and public safety, especially during large-scale events. If you see a suspected unauthorized drone during the duration of the Calgary Stampede, please contact the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234.

For more information on where you can fly a drone within the city of Calgary, visit https://www.calgary.ca/bylaws/drones-in-parks.html

CA242799912/4624