Drones are a relatively new technology in the consumer space. As a result, with growing popularity comes growing concerns over where and how these devices are used. The Government of Canada has launched a brand new campaign that aims to educate Canadians on how they should be using their drones (and how they shouldn’t) to ensure they are in compliance with relevant Canadian laws.
Led by Minister of Transport Lisa Raitt, this safety awareness campaign will educate owners of unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) on the kinds of fines they might incur if they flout the law, as well as the regulations in place to keep Canadian airspace secure, and other vital information relating to the operation of these devices.
“As Minister of Transport, it’s my job to make sure we keep our skies safe for aircraft of all sizes,” Raitt said in a statement today. “This campaign will help build awareness so that Canadians always think safety first and understand how to operate their drones safely and legally.”
Phase one of this project kicks off today and includes dos and don’ts of flying UAVs. These include only flying your drone during the day, always keeping it within your line of sight, and never going within than five miles of an airport, heliport or aerodrome. UAV owners also can’t send their device higher than 300 feet.
The above might seem like common sense, but the guidelines also include information that users might not be aware of or might not be so obvious, including the fact that they can’t use the device in populated areas or at events with large groups of people. You also can’t go within 100 feet of a building, boat, or other vehicle (this includes cars and roads).
If you use your drone for work or it weighs more than 35KG, you’re obligated to apply for a Special Flight Operations Certificate. Going without the correct certification could incur fines of up to $5,000 for individuals or $25,000 for corporations.
For more information on flying your drone in a safe and legal manner, hit up Transport Canada’s dedicated web page on the subject.
[source]Government of Canada[/source]
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