The Ottawa International Airport Authority applauds the announcement made earlier today at Billy Bishop Airport by the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, concerning increased safety measures related to recreational drone activity.
As drones grow in popularity and availability, the risk to airports and aviation also increases. Transport Canada’s Interim Order, which aims to address the immediate safety concerns that are posed by drones in higher-risk areas, is a necessary and welcome move.
Transport Canada launched its national drone safety awareness campaign at the Ottawa Airport in June 2016. Together with the Airport Authority and the Ottawa Police Service, they introduced “No Drone Zone” signage and proposed regulations for UAVs, in an effort to restrict activity in areas that put aviation safety at risk. Building on that campaign, YOW has continued to develop counter-drone capabilities of its own through the assessment and implementation of a drone detection system and the development of mitigation response strategies.
“Transport Canada’s ongoing effort to reduce the potential threat is needed. As drones grow in popularity, we need to work closely together to ensure that our skies remain safe for aviation activity while keeping communities safe from collateral harm,” said Mark Laroche, President and CEO of the Ottawa International Airport Authority.
About the Ottawa International Airport Authority
OMCIAA manages, operates and develops airport facilities and lands in support of the economic growth of the National Capital Region, generating more than $2.2 billion annually in total economic activity in Ottawa and Gatineau.
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For more information:
Krista Kealey
Vice-President, Communications and Public Affairs
Ottawa International Airport Authority
613-248-2050
[email protected]