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BC Wildfire says drone disrupted aerial operations at Brunswick Complex blaze
BC Wildfire Service said the drone forced airtankers and helicopters to stop flying immediately, delaying suppression efforts during the 18,859-hectare blaze.
- On Saturday, July 11, a drone operating in Brunswick Creek wildfire airspace halted all aerial firefighting operations at the 18,859-hectare Brunswick Complex wildfire.
- Only aircraft working with wildfire response are allowed within five nautical miles of a blaze and up to 3,000 feet above ground level, as wildfires are automatically considered flight-restricted areas under federal aviation regulations.
- BCWS warned that flying a drone near a wildfire can lead to fines up to $25,000 and imprisonment for up to 18 months, while intentional interference may result in penalties up to $100,000 under the Wildfire Act.
- Reports of drivers stopping on the side of the highway to photograph operations have also delayed suppression efforts, putting responders at risk as pilots operate low-flying aircraft in challenging conditions.
- To ensure safe airspace, BCWS urged the public to report unauthorized drones immediately by calling *5555, emphasizing the danger with the message, "If YOU fly, WE can't.
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Leaning Left13Leaning Right0Center0Last UpdatedBias Distribution100% Left
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L 100%
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