The Timmins Golden Hawks Aircraft Club is conducting a pilot project this summer, by flying model aircraft over the Gillies Lake Conservation Area.
Club member Andy Woitowicz says there are caveats for pilots and their planes.
“They have to be under 250 grams (nine ounces) in weight and you also have to bring a spotter with you,” he explains.
“The spotter will say ‘okay, there’s somebody entering the field in the northwest corner.’ So what you do as a pilot, wherever your airplane is, you get away from that area. And/or if they wander right into the middle of the field, you land.”
The Mattagami Region Conservation Authority emphasizes that only Golden Hawks members can fly at Gillies. It’s not an open invitation for you to fly your drone.
If things go well, model aircraft will be a permanent fixture in the park.
The Golden Hawks have their fun fly this Saturday at their own field on Gold Mine Road.