Transport Canada say the drone operator violated 11 rules under the Canadian Aviation Regulation during two separate instances. The operator’s name hasn’t been released, but drone flyer, Toronto-native Toby Gu is convinced it's him. He has set up a GoFundMe page moments after the announcement. Gu, who is currently out of the country, could be facing a fine of up to $2,750. Gu is accused of flying his drone during the Raptors victory parade at Nathan’s Phillips Square.
"Operating a drone in Canadian airspace is a regulated activity and the department will enforce the regulations to ensure compliance. The safety of Canadians is our number one priority." Transport Minister Marc Garneau said in a news release. Federal drone regulations came into effect on June 1st making registration mandatory for anyone operating a drone weighing more than 250 grams and less than 25 kilograms.
Drone operators are also required to have a pilot certificate to fly them and obey the rules regarding flying in controlled airspace or over the public. The airspace around Nathan Phillips Square was restricted the day of the Raptors' party, meaning that if anyone wanted to operate a drone they would have needed permission from Nav Canada, the company that owns and operates Canada's civil air navigation service.
The operator also would have needed to apply for a special flight operations certificate from Transport Canada. According to Transport Canada, via twitter they told people they should leave their drones at home, the morning of the Raptor's parade.
By: Frankie Fiorini
Comments