RCMP logo shown in Edmonton, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

By The Canadian Press

Potentially dangerous laser, drone infractions reported at Kelowna, B.C., airport

Apr 22, 2026 | 2:45 PM

KELOWNA — Police have issued a warning to drone and laser users in the Kelowna, B.C., area, saying the city’s airport saw a significant number of events with “potentially catastrophic consequences” for aircraft operations last year.

RCMP say air traffic controllers at Kelowna International Airport received 21 reports of laser strikes in 2025, while five remotely piloted drones also entered its airspace.

The Mounties say high-powered lasers often resemble pens or flashlights, but they are “not toys” and instead pose serious risks for aircraft.

They say lasers aimed at an aircraft can create intense glare and distract pilots, or impair the vision of flight crews at critical times.

Likewise, police say unauthorized drone activity poses significant risks to aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing, as drones can distract pilots and cause catastrophic damage if the device were to strike the engine of an aircraft.

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Transport Canada regulations say drone users without the proper certification and airspace authorization must stay at least 5.6 kilometres from airports.

They must also keep their drones within 122 metres of ground level, while staying at least 9.3 kilometres away from active wildfires.

The Mounties note high-powered lasers are sold online, potentially contributing to “misunderstanding and underestimating their potential for harm.”

They say illegally using lasers or drones near an airport could result in fines up to $5,000, with the potential for criminal charges in “serious or deliberate” incidents.

Potentially dangerous laser, drone infractions reported at Kelowna, B.C., airport

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