The RCMP is advising pilots throughout Southern Alberta of airspace restrictions that will affect air traffic around the City of Calgary and Kananaskis during the upcoming G7 Summit.
The RCMP has taken the lead on security responsibilities for the summit as the head of the Integrated Safety and Security Group, which includes a number of police, emergency and military agencies.
Lead Aerospace Planner for the G7 Mark Bisanta explains after several engagements with partners like Transport Canada, NORAD, and the Canadian Armed Forces, the decision has been made to place temporary airspace restrictions over Calgary and Kananaskis from June 14th at 6:00 a.m., to June 17th at 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time.
“ The restricted air spaces have been designed to support security operations, emergency services, and authorized aircraft, and it’s imperative for you to understand that that’s why we designed this, is to really support the safety and the security operations around the G7 Summit,” he says.
The restrictions include a 30 nautical mile diameter around Kananaskis, and a similar 20 nautical mile radius around the Calgary International Airport.
During a briefing on the matter, Bisanta indicated that he was unable to answer any specifics surrounding what might happen to violators of the restrictions, simply saying rule breakers could be “intercepted” by members of the ISSG.
He adds that security requires the cooperation of all aviators, amateurs and professionals alike, so pilots are encouraged to spread the word about the restrictions ahead of the summit.
“ We’re here today to help spread awareness of these restrictions among amateur aviators and encourage them to spread the word through their own flying clubs,” Bisanta says. “ We are confident that this advanced notice will provide the time required to make adjustments to flight and drone use in the area.”
Bisanta emphasized the importance of avoiding drone use specifically, saying they not only pose obvious security concerns, but place significant safety risks on the RCMP’s assets that need clear skies to operate effectively.
“ These restrictions will also impact various manners of recreational and professional drone operations,” he says. “ To be very clear, if you have not received prior authorization to fly in these areas, you are directed to fly elsewhere.”
“This is to ensure there are no negative interactions in our sky.”
Pilots in the Olds region are advised that the restrictions will affect the airspace above Crossfield and Airdrie.
