Staff with STARS Air Ambulance are asking Alberta residents to ensure they understand drone and laser pointer safety.
According to a news release, this is for the safety of its aircraft, crew, and patients.
The organization says using drones and lasers near aircraft such as helipads, emergency scenes, or airports can pose a huge threat to aircraft safety.
Officials told StrathmoreNow that drones and lasers can be distracting to pilots and can create a glare in the cockpit or block a flight path.
Under the Aeronautics Act, legal action be taken against anyone who uses a laser or drone near an aircraft.
“We want people to enjoy using their drones and lasers, but to do so safely. Drones flown irresponsibly near our flight paths, can endanger our crew and our patients on board, so we are looking to our community and our supporters to help raise awareness of these dangers and to prioritize safety over curiosity,” said Frank Eigenbrood, STARS director of safety and quality.
According to STARS, uncontrollable weather, and harsh terrain are normal for pilots to deal with, but they want to ensure there are no added stressors during missions.
“Our pilots and crew members are highly trained to handle a variety of challenges, but the increased use of lasers and drones, especially this summer, near our aircraft is a growing concern. From night operations to challenging conditions, our pilots try to minimize these hazards which can disrupt critical rescue missions and put both our crew, patients, and the communities we serve at risk,” said Jason Arthur, STARS director of flight operations.
According to the Alberta government, all drones must be between 250g and 25 kg to be registered. A registration number is also required.
STARS says they fly an average of 23 missions a year in Strathmore.
