With retail drone sales expected to soar during Christmas, Vancouver Airport Authority (YVR) has teamed up with aviation partners to launch a drone safety campaign, aimed at highlighting the risks associated with flying unmanned aircraft near airports.
“Innovation and safety are two of YVR’s core values,” said Steve Hankinson, vice president of operations at YVR.
“We recognize the amazing potential for drones to improve a variety of processes, but we’re asking the public to prioritize safety and never fly one near an airport.”
Flying any unmanned aircraft within nine kilometres of an airport is considered extremely dangerous and could pose a serious threat to other aircraft.
“YVR’s campaign is helping to create awareness about the very real dangers and consequences of flying a drone near an airport,” added Marc Garneau, federal minister of transport.
“This holiday season, I encourage all new drone users to learn the rules of the sky on our website.”
Investigations of incidents involving improper drone use are on the rise in B.C.
Since the beginning of 2015, nearly half of all incidents investigated by Transport Canada have been in this province.
YVR has placed “No Drone Zone” signage at key locations across Sea Island.
