Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

A drone was reported at Penticton Regional Airport Thursday night, according to a Transport Canada incident report.

The report states that just before midnight, a well-lit drone was observed flying/hovering about 1.5 kilometres east of the airport and 150 to 200 feet above the ground.

It was observed for about five minutes before landing.

The RCMP were notified and there was no impact to operations.

According to Natasha Gauthier, spokeswoman for Transport Canada, there are rules and regulations surrounding drone use.

All operators, regardless of the size of the device or the purpose of use, are expected to fly safely and legally.

All must respect the Canadian Aviation Regulations, including rules and requirements related to controlled airspace.

Operators are also subject to the Criminal Code and to all provincial, territorial and municipal laws governing areas, such as privacy and trespassing.

Using a drone in a reckless and negligent manner could cause property damage or bodily harm, resulting in lawsuits, fines and jail time.

Flying a drone near other aircraft is also extremely dangerous.

Anyone who violates controlled or restricted airspace and endangers the safety of manned aircraft (airplanes) could be subject to fines of up to $25,000 and/or prison.

This applies to any size of drone used for any purpose.

Transport Canada reviews all complaints and reports of possible violations involving a drone to determine if an investigation is warranted.

Sometimes a comprehensive investigation will not be pursued if the case is referred to another agency, such as the local police.

They also routinely close cases when no violations or insufficient evidence are found.

For more information on drone safety rules and guidelines, go here.