The RCMP has begun testing a drone patrol corridor along the Canada–US border in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.The move comes amid a push to boost security and crack down on illegal crossings and smuggling.Working with Transport Canada, the RCMP says the Remotely Piloted Aircraft System corridor will allow for targeted, intelligence-led patrols. Officers plan to use the drones to search for people entering Canada illegally between official crossings, identify suspected human smugglers, and detect contraband such as illicit drugs moving in or out of the country.“The use of this technology and the creation of the RCMP RPAS corridor will also augment our ability to enhance coordination efficiencies amongst our law enforcement partners, which will ultimately have a direct impact on public safety,” said Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland, the RCMP’s Federal Policing Northwest Region commander.The corridor officially takes effect at 9 p.m. Monday and will be reviewed for its operational value, cost, and impact on border communities. Formally designated as Advisory Airspace, the zone extends from ground level to 500 feet and runs 1.85 kilometres north of the border.Flight activity will not be restricted, but local pilots, agricultural operators, and recreational aviation users are asked to be cautious and notify the RCMP before entering the area to prevent mid-air conflicts with drones. Advance notice can be provided via email or through 24/7 phone lines in each province.The RCMP says the trial will help determine how drone technology could be expanded to other parts of the border, with community feedback factored into future decisions.
