COCHRANE – RCMP in Cochrane are investigating after a distress beacon was intentionally set off at the Springbank Airport last month.
On Aug. 26, police were called to help the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre out of Trenton, Ontario with the distress beacon that was coming from the area west of Calgary.
An investigation determined that on Aug. 25 around 11 p.m., someone gained entry into an unoccupied Antonov AN-2 aircraft and intentionally activated the emergency signal.
When this signal is activated, a distress tone is heard by all aircraft in the surrounding area.
Pilots entering and leaving the area were required to report the signal in order to pinpoint where it was coming from.
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RCMP in Cochrane, as well as Rockyview Fire Services and airport staff, forced their way into several hangars until they found the signal and deactivated it.
During this time, search and rescue response across Canada could have been impeded.
RCMP say it continues a thorough investigation and there is the potential of several charges to be laid under the Criminal Code and Aeronautics Act.
“This was not a minor act of vandalism or mischief,” said Inspector Dave Brunner in a statement. “We are investigating this as a deliberate act that could have
endangered lives and caused significant harm. We are taking this matter very seriously and continuing with this investigation as a high priority.”
RCMP are asking anyone who may have information about the incident to step forward.
