Calgary police launch 90‑day drone pilot for emergency response
Posted Sep 10, 2026 1:18 pm.
Calgary police are beginning a three‑month trial to see whether remotely operated drones can help officers respond to emergencies.
The Calgary Police Service (CPS) says that, starting on Thursday, two Skydio X10 drones will be dispatched to certain calls in the city’s northeast and southeast, aiming to help provide information to responding officers.
“The reality is officers are often responding with very limited information, and situations change quickly,” says CPS Supt. Jodi Gach.
When a call comes in during the trial, a trained officer can remotely send a drone to a scene, which may reach the location ahead of officers in some cases. The drones will stream live aerial footage, aiming to give officers a clearer picture of unfolding situations, potential risks and who is involved before they arrive.
The drones will launch from a secure site in northeast Calgary.
Gach says the model has already been implemented by other police agencies.
“What we need to understand, is how it will work in Calgary,” she says. “The information we gather during this trial will help us understand the benefits, the challenges, and operational requirements of this model.”
Earlier this year, Red Deer RCMP introduced a Drone as First Responder (DFR) program that sees drones dispatched ahead of police, fire, or EMS to get eyes on a scene.
CPS already uses drones for searches, investigations, and emergency incidents.
The service says Transport Canada has approved the project, and all flights will follow federal regulations and the police policies.
