Canada clamps down on drones

Drone fans north of the border have been hit with tough new rules restricting how and where they can use their flying toys. Announced on Thursday by Canadian transport minister Marc Garneau, the new regulations place strict limitations on drone flights close to people, animals, and buildings. The rules, aimed specifically at non-commercial drone flights, also stipulate that the machines should be kept well clear of airports. "I am taking measures now, before a drone hits an airplane and causes a catastrophic accident," Garneau told the Globe and Mail, adding, "That's the kind of nightmare scenario that keeps me up at night." Folks with an unmanned aerial vehicle weighing more than 0.5 pounds and up to 77 pounds are now banned from operating the machine within 5.6 miles of any airport as well as other places where aircraft operate such as heliports or seaplane bases. Drones must stay within 295 feet of the ground, and keep at least 246 feet (75 meters) from buildings.