FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 18, 2025

OTTAWA, ONTARIO – Flying a drone can be fun and practical, but it comes with important responsibilities. A new public safety video, released today by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP), in partnership with NAV CANADA and the Government of Canada, reminds Canadians that there are rules on when and where drones can be flown in Canadian airspace.

Launched during Canadian Airports Safety Week, the 60-second video, produced with the assistance of the Richmond RCMP, encourages recreational and commercial drone users alike to learn the regulations that keep people and aircraft safe. Flying in restricted airspace, such as near airports, emergency sites, or other sensitive areas, can put lives at risk and could result in significant fines or even jail time.

“Drones are valuable tools for both recreation and professional use, but when flown irresponsibly, they can threaten aviation security and public safety,” said Inspector Olivier Théorêt, co-chair of the CACP’s Aviation Security Committee. “This video is a simple but powerful reminder that safety must always come first.”

Drones are increasingly being used for everything from hobby flying to supporting emergency responders in life-saving situations.

“With more people taking to the skies, awareness and compliance with drone safety rules are essential”, added Inspector Susan Gray, co-chair of the CACP’s Aviation Security Committee.

Canadians are urged to check all the rules before piloting a drone to ensure they are flying legally and responsibly.

“Ensuring the safety of Canadian airspace is NAV CANADA’s top priority,” said Alan Chapman, Director RPAS Traffic Management at NAV CANADA. “As drone usage continues to grow across the country and as we work to integrate them safely into our airspace, it is more important than ever for operators to understand their responsibilities. We’re pleased to have partnered on this video which reminds Canadians that safe skies depend on everyone doing their part — including drone pilots.”

View the new drone safety video accessible in the Resources section of the CACP website or by visiting the NAV CANADA website where you can also learn more about drone flight planning.

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