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Red Deer RCMP seize drone used near STARS flight path

Investigation ongoing into incident near Red Deer Regional Hospital
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Red Deer RCMP have seized a drone from a citizen after responding to reports the drone was being flown near the flight path of STARS Air Ambulance as the helicopter made an approach to Red Deer Regional Hospital on Thursday.

RCMP responded to the report at 9:25 a.m. and located the owner of the drone shortly afterward. Police seized the foldable Mavic Pro drone as part of the investigation into whether the drone was in violation of the Federal Aeronautics Act.

Transport Canada regulations regarding the operation of drones fall under the Aeronautics Act — specifically, under the newly approved Interim Order Respecting the Use of Model Aircraft passed on March 13 – and restrict the use of recreational and commercial drones in populated areas.

Violation of drone flight rules could put lives, aircraft and property at risk, and could result in fines of up to $3,000 for recreational use.

Red Deer RCMP said that it is a drone operator’s responsibility to educate themselves on the rules and restrictions for operating drones. For more information, visit Transport Canada at www.tc.gc.ca/eng/menu.htm.

RCMP continue to investigate, and will issue an update when more information becomes available.