RCMP Is Still Searching For The Operator Of The Aircraft

Eight helicopters and an air tanker engaged in fighting a fire near Oliver, B.C., Canada were grounded Sunday when a small UAV flew over the Testalinden Creek Fire early in the afternoon.

Canada's National Post newspaper reports that about five hours passed before the aircraft were given permission to resume operations.

Oliver fire chief Bob Graham said that without the aircraft dropping water on the fire, firefighters were forced to climb steep hillsides with hoses in their hands in an effort to contain the blaze. Several homes were threatened by the fire. "We had to go out and protect more of the area," Graham said.

Airspace over an active wildfire is automatically considered "restricted" by Transport Canada. Flights within five nautical miles and below 3,000 feet are prohibited, and violations can result in fines up to $1,000 for an individual and $5,000 for a corporation.

The National Post reports that the RCMP is searching for the operator of the UAV that caused the operation to be halted, but have not located either the aircraft or its operator.

Earlier this year, an unmanned aircraft hovering near the Westside Road fire near Kelowna in British Columbia, grounding aircraft fighting the fire.

FMI: www.tc.gc.ca/eng