Drone Sighting Temporarily Suspends Aerial Firefighting in Fraser Canyon

July 12 2026 - The BC Wildfire Service is reminding the public that flying drones near active wildfires is illegal and can result in fines of up to $25,000 and/or up to 18 months in prison.

The rules prioritize safety for pilots, firefighters, and the public during high-risk operations

The reminder comes after a confirmed drone sighting near the southeast flank of the Brunswick Creek wildfire (V10742) in the Fraser Canyon (Brunswick Complex).

As a result, all aerial firefighting operations (helicopters and airtankers) had to be temporarily suspended while the airspace was cleared.

No exact time or duration of the suspension has been released, but such incidents typically ground aircraft for 15 to 60 minutes for safety reasons.

The official BC Wildfire Service post was uploaded at approximately 8:43 PM PDT on July 11, 2026, referring to the events as happening “today.”

The service stressed: “If YOU fly, WE can’t.”

Drone Sighting Temporarily Suspends Aerial Firefighting in Fraser Canyon