Flying over a wildfire: a safety concern for everyone
Intrusions into Fire Suppression Airspace
Every year, SOPFEU's aerial operations teams face significant safety challenges due to unauthorized aircraft entering wildfire suppression airspace. Whether it involves drones, airplanes, seaplanes, or helicopters, these intrusions pose a serious risk. Whether the intent is recreational sightseeing, capturing dramatic images, or personally assessing damage to a cottage or other forest infrastructure, unauthorized flights endanger not only their own pilots but also SOPFEU's air crews and ground personnel.
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Don't become part of the problem!
Aerial wildfire suppression operations often involve numerous aircraft—including airtankers, bird dog aircraft, and helicopters—operating within a confined area, sometimes at low altitude and in reduced visibility caused by smoke. These aircraft communicate with one another using dedicated radio frequencies that are not accessible to the public. The presence of an unauthorized aircraft or drone significantly increases the risk of collision and can delay—or even halt—fire suppression operations.
If an unauthorized aircraft enters the area and flight crews are unable to establish communication with its pilot, all aerial operations must be suspended immediately until the situation is under control. Such interruptions have a direct impact on the effectiveness of suppression efforts, both in the air and on the ground.
Clear Regulations That Apply at All Times
Section 601.15 of the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) states that no person shall operate an aircraft or drone at an altitude lower than 3,000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level) over a wildfire or within five nautical miles of a wildfire area.
This restriction applies at all times, even if no Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued. Under Section 601.16 of the CARs, Transport Canada may also issue a NOTAM to expand the restricted area.
It is the responsibility of all pilots to consult current NOTAMs before every flight and to avoid flying over wildfire areas in accordance with the CARs. These requirements apply to all aircraft (including drones) without exception.
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En janvier 2025, en Californie, un drone a percuté un avion-citerne de la SOPFEU en plein vol et a créé un bris important sur l'aile de l'avion. Heureusement, l'incident n'a blessé personne mais il aurait pu être fatal.