Drone Hits Skyjet Flight Landing in Quebec City

According to Transport Canada, a landing Skyjet passenger plane was struck by a drone in Quebec City, an incident which took place last week on October 12, 2017.

Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, issued a statement today to say “On October 12, 2017, a Skyjet flight was struck by a drone while inbound to Jean Lesage International Airport in Québec City. This is the first time a drone has hit a commercial aircraft in Canada and I am extremely relieved that the aircraft only sustained minor damage and was able to land safely.

Transport Canada is “monitoring” the situation and is working with Skyjet, Jean Lesage International Airport and NAV Canada, plus Service de police de la Ville de Québec, and potential cooperation with the Transportation Safety Board, should the latter investigate the incident.

Mavic pro

Drone operators in Canada must adhere to “No Drone Zones”, which prohibits flights around all airports, helipads and seaplane bases, if permission has not been granted prior by Transport Canada. The department states for 2017, to date, 1,596 drone incidents have been reported, but only 131 were seen as pressing aviation safety concerns.

Fines up to $25,000 and/or prison may apply for those breaking interim safety measures when it comes to drones. Regulations state people must fly drones:

  • below 90 m above the ground
  • at least 30 m away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your drone weighs more than 250 g up to 1 kg)
  • at least 5.5 km away from aerodromes (any airport, seaplane base, or areas where aircraft take-off and land)
  • at least 1.8 km away from heliports or aerodromes used by helicopters only outside of controlled or restricted airspace
  • at least 9 km away from a natural hazard or disaster area
  • away from areas where operation could interfere with police or first responders
  • during the day and not in clouds
  • within your sight at all times
  • within 500 m of yourself or closer
  • only if clearly marked with your name, address, and telephone number

Garneau reiterated, “I would like to remind the public that all drone users are required to abide by the Canadian Aviation Regulations, including the Interim Order Respecting the use of Model Aircraft. Transport Canada encourages all drone users to learn about the rules and to consult the wide variety of educational tools available on our website at www.Canada.ca/drone-safety.”

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