Public told to leave drones at home if they go to Abbotsford, B.C., airshow

Police and organizers of the Abbotsford International Airshow urge the public to leave their drones at home if they plan to attend the show this weekend.

A joint news release from Abbotsford police and the airshow says drone detection equipment will be used during the show and if a drone is spotted, police will be notified.

The statement says drones have been detected at several airshows across Canada over the last year, causing significant safety risks to pilots, aircraft and anyone attending the shows.

Airshow spokesperson Jadene Mah says spectators must be able to enjoy the experience without having to worry about the consequences of a drone-related accident.

Transport Canada classifies drones as aircraft and the person operating the craft as a remote pilot.

Flying a drone near an airport or in close proximity to other aircraft is illegal.

The Abbotsford airshow continues until Aug. 11 and features the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, a CF-18 Hornet demonstration and heritage planes.