A civilian plane violated restricted airspace above Kananaskis, Alberta, where G7 leaders were gathering for meetings, prompting an urgent response from Canadian fighter jets. The incident occurred shortly after 11 a.m. on June 15, 2025. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) issued a press release confirming that the Canadian region of NORAD deployed CF-18 Hornet fighter jets to intercept the aircraft that had entered the restricted area.
The RCMP outlined the sequence of events, indicating that multiple attempts were made to gain the pilot's attention. In the end, "final warning measures" were utilized, which included the CF-18 jets firing warning flares to communicate with the pilot. Subsequently, the pilot was able to land safely under their own power, where they were met by the RCMP and their partners on the ground. However, the release did not specify the origin of the plane or its landing destination, as the matter remains under investigation.
To ensure the safety of the summit, two Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) had been issued, highlighting temporary airspace restrictions over Calgary and Kananaskis since Saturday morning. These restrictions are set to continue until noon on Tuesday. The RCMP's statement emphasized the responsibility of every pilot to be aware of airspace restrictions before flying, reiterating the importance of adherence to regulations during such high-profile events.
Constable Lauren Mowbray noted that incidents like this divert crucial resources, which could otherwise be allocated for police work and securing the summit site. As of the time of the press release, there was no information regarding whether the pilot would face any charges related to the airspace violation.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is hosting G7 leaders from several nations, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and Italy, in Kananaskis, located in the picturesque Rocky Mountains southwest of Calgary. Notably, leaders from non-member countries, such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are also expected to attend the summit.
The incident underscores the heightened security measures and protocols in place during international gatherings, particularly with the inclusion of notable global leaders. The situation is a reminder of the vigilance required to maintain safety and order in restricted areas, particularly during significant diplomatic events. As investigations continue, further developments regarding the circumstances of the airspace violation may emerge.
