Footage Captured Of A Flight Near A Major Suspension Bridge In Delta

A video posted to YouTube by a group calling itself 'Rotor Riot' has drawn the attention of local police in Delta, British Columbia in Canada. The video shows a drone flying only a few feet away from The Alex Fraser Bridge, one of the most heavily-traveled bridges in the region.

Radio station CKWX reports that Delta police are studying the video to see what, if any charges could or should be brought against the operator, if he or she can be identified. Police spokeswoman Sharlene Brooks told the station that there is a serious risk of collision if the drone operator were to lose control of the aircraft. She said that the aircraft could almost certainly distract drivers on the bridge, if nothing else.

The video shows the operators using FPV technology to fly the drone near the bridge, along with some pretty breathtaking views of the structure.

Canadian drone regulations for recreational operators require that aircraft weighing between nine ounces and 2.2 pounds stay at least 100 feet from vehicles and vessels, though there is not a specific prohibition against flying near bridges. But the rules state that an operator "could face serious consequences – including up to $25,000 in fines and/or jail time – if they:

• put aircraft at risk
• fly where you are not allowed
• endanger anyone’s safety"

The group that posted the video did not respond to a request for comment from the radio station.

FMI: Original Report, Video, Canadian Recreational Drone Overview